Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed? How does it help in navigation? (UPSC IAS Mains 2018 General Studies Paper – 1)
IRNSS: NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) is an independent and indigenous regional navigation satellite system developed by India. It is a set of 8 satellites which will be located in suitable orbital slots - geostationary or geosynchronous.
It makes India only the sixth country in the world to have its own navigation system.
This frees India from dependence on other countries for its navigation (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo etc.).
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Strategic Independence
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India’s NavIC system operates independently without relying on GPS or other global systems.
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National Security
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NavIC enables precise tracking and navigation for defence operations and military applications.
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Disaster Management
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NavIC helps in tracking and responding to natural disasters, such as cyclones and floods.
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Transportation and Navigation
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NavIC enables precise tracking of commercial vehicles, enhancing road safety and efficiency.
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Precision Agriculture and Farming
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NavIC aids farmers in optimizing crop management, irrigation, and soil nutrient application.
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Personal and Public Safety
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NavIC enables real-time tracking of fishermen and sends alerts in case of potential dangers at sea.
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Scientific and Technological Advancements
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NavIC aids in scientific experiments, geological surveys, and geodetic network development.
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Currently, NavIC’s reach extends only 1,500 km beyond Indian territory. However, for applications involving ships and aeroplanes travelling beyond this range, satellites in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) would be required. By adding MEO satellites in the future, NavIC can extend its global reach and aim to provide navigation services on a global scale, similar to the capabilities of the GPS system.
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