Space-Tech for Good Governance

General Studies Paper-2

Context: The Minister of Science and Technology has said that India’s Space technology is playing a major role in revolutionising governance at the “Good Governance” Conclave.

What is Space Technology?

• Space technologies designate technologies used to enable activities conducted in outer space:
  • such as Earth observation, satellite communication, satellite navigation or even robotic and human space exploration beyond Earth’s orbits.
• Governments use space technology, geospatial data, and field information for planning, monitoring, and evaluating developmental activities.

Use of Space Technology in Governance

• Disaster Management and Response: National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) provides satellite data that helps in identifying flood-affected areas, mapping damage, and planning rehabilitation.
  • The Indian National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) uses it for disaster relief operations.
• Agriculture and Rural Development: FASAL (Forecasting Agricultural output using Space, Agrometeorology, and Land-based observations) uses satellite data to predict crop yields, helping farmers make informed decisions.
  • Soil Health Management and irrigation management are optimized using remote sensing technologies.
• Efficient Land Management: Initiatives like “Swamitva Yojana” use satellite mapping for land record management.
  • This initiative simplifies land verification and promotes transparency in land ownership.
• Environmental Monitoring: Bhuvan an Indian web-based application developed by ISRO provides satellite data for various environmental and land-use applications.
  • Satellites like the Oceansat series provide data on sea surface temperatures, sea level rise, and coastal erosion.
• Security and Defense: Satellites help in remote sensing for border surveillance.
• Administrative Efficiency: Satellite data helps in the implementation of the Digital India initiative by enabling access to e-governance services.

Challenges

• High Costs: The development, maintenance, and launch of satellites are expensive.
• Technical and Infrastructure Gaps: Lack of adequate ground infrastructure, technical expertise, and trained personnel in remote areas.
• Data Interpretation and Accuracy: Space-based data requires accurate interpretation and analysis, and errors in data processing can lead to wrong decisions in governance.
• Privacy Concerns: Increased surveillance and monitoring through space technology raise privacy and security concerns among citizens.
• Environmental Impact: Increased space missions and satellite launches can contribute to space debris and environmental pollution.

Way Ahead

• Develop and upgrade ground infrastructure, data centers, and communication systems to support space-based services effectively.
• Encourage collaboration between the government and private sector to reduce costs, foster innovation, and improve the application of space technology.
• Increase the number and diversity of satellites for better coverage, particularly in remote and underserved regions of the country.
• Encourage research in space technology and its applications to address emerging governance challenges, including climate change and urban planning.
• Adopt sustainable practices for satellite launches and space missions to minimize environmental impacts and manage space debris effectively.