Ministry to explore launching a satellite or acquiring dedicated transponder for the Indian maritime sector: Sonowal

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Mr Sarbananda Sonowal, said the Ministry will explore the possibility of launching a dedicated satellite or acquiring a transponder to strengthen India’s maritime governance and port management infrastructure.

“Our Ministry should plan to launch a satellite of our own or acquire a dedicated transponder for the Indian maritime sector. This will strengthen India’s coastal and port management infrastructure through advanced space-based solutions,” he said to the top officials of the Ministry on the occasion of National Space Day.

According to the Union Minister, the proposed system would provide exclusive coverage for Indian coastal waters, inland waterways and port regions, integrating with national maritime databases to offer real-time monitoring of vessel traffic, navigational safety and port operations.

“This will help in enhanced vessel traffic monitoring, real-time ship tracking across India’s coastline and EEZ, early identification of congestion and improved navigational safety. It will also improve preparedness for search-and-rescue, 

pollution control and disaster management, while reducing dependence on foreign navigation systems and supporting ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision of PM Shri Narendra Modi ji,” he added.

Highlighting India’s recent achievements in the space sector, the Minister said the country has emerged as a global leader in science and technology. “India has made remarkable progress as a nation in science and technology and has built one of the world’s most respected and efficient space programmes.”

He recalled India’s journey in space research, its quest of knowledge for the betterment of humanity, as per a Ministry release. 

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