India's SAARC Satellite Initiative: Boosting Regional Cooperation in Space Technology
India's SAARC satellite initiative aims to enhance regional cooperation in space technology for various applications.
Photo by NASA Hubble Space Telescope
Quick Revision
India launched the South Asia Satellite (GSAT-9)
Also known as SAARC Satellite
Aimed at providing communication, broadcasting, meteorological services to SAARC nations
Applications in disaster management, telemedicine, education
Pakistan opted out of the project
Symbol of India's 'neighbourhood first' policy
Key Numbers
Visual Insights
India's SAARC Satellite Initiative: Regional Reach and Participation
This map illustrates the SAARC member countries, highlighting India as the provider of the South Asia Satellite (GSAT-9) and the nations benefiting from its services. It also marks Pakistan's decision to opt out, showcasing the regional dynamics of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy.
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Exam Angles
India's foreign policy and diplomacy (Neighbourhood First, soft power, space diplomacy).
Role and capabilities of ISRO and advancements in India's space technology.
Regional cooperation organizations (SAARC, BIMSTEC, IORA) and their effectiveness.
Applications of space technology for socio-economic development and disaster management.
Geopolitical challenges and opportunities in South Asia.
View Detailed Summary
Summary
India launched the South Asia Satellite (GSAT-9), also known as the SAARC Satellite, as a gift to its South Asian neighbours. This initiative aims to provide communication, broadcasting, and meteorological services to the SAARC member countries, fostering greater regional cooperation in space technology.
The satellite offers applications in disaster management, telemedicine, and education, demonstrating India's commitment to sharing its technological advancements for the benefit of the region. While Pakistan opted out of the project, the satellite serves as a symbol of India's "neighbourhood first" policy and its leadership in regional space efforts.
Background
Latest Developments
The launch of the South Asia Satellite (GSAT-9) in 2017, initially conceived as the 'SAARC Satellite,' was a significant step in India's space diplomacy. Positioned as a 'gift' to its South Asian neighbours, it aims to provide crucial communication, broadcasting, and meteorological services.
This initiative underscores India's commitment to sharing its technological prowess for regional development, particularly in areas like disaster management, telemedicine, and education. While most SAARC nations welcomed the initiative, Pakistan opted out, leading to its renaming from 'SAARC Satellite' to 'South Asia Satellite.'
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the South Asia Satellite (GSAT-9): 1. It is a geostationary communication satellite launched by India. 2. Its primary objective is to provide services like disaster management support, telemedicine, and education to SAARC member countries. 3. All SAARC member countries are currently utilizing the services provided by this satellite. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 only
- B.1 and 2 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is correct. GSAT-9 is indeed a geostationary communication satellite. Geostationary satellites are placed in a specific orbit (Geostationary Earth Orbit) where they appear stationary relative to a point on the Earth's surface, making them ideal for communication and broadcasting. Statement 2 is correct. The satellite was launched with the explicit aim of providing services such as communication, broadcasting, meteorological services, and applications in disaster management, telemedicine, and education to its South Asian neighbours. Statement 3 is incorrect. Pakistan, a SAARC member, opted out of the project, and therefore is not utilizing the services provided by this satellite. Hence, not all SAARC member countries are currently utilizing its services.
2. With reference to India's space program and its regional initiatives, consider the following statements: 1. PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) is primarily used for launching geostationary satellites. 2. GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) is capable of launching heavier communication satellites into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO). 3. The South Asia Satellite is an example of India's space diplomacy aimed at enhancing regional cooperation and capacity building. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is incorrect. PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) is primarily used for launching satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO), which are suitable for remote sensing and earth observation satellites. While it has been used for some smaller geostationary transfer orbit missions, its primary role is not for geostationary satellites. GSLV is designed for that purpose. Statement 2 is correct. GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) is designed to launch heavier communication satellites into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO), from where they are maneuvered into Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO). Statement 3 is correct. The South Asia Satellite (GSAT-9) is widely recognized as a significant initiative in India's space diplomacy, demonstrating its commitment to sharing technological advancements for regional benefit and fostering cooperation.
3. Which of the following statements best describes the 'Neighbourhood First' policy of India?
- A.Prioritizing economic ties with Southeast Asian nations over other regions.
- B.Focusing on strengthening diplomatic and economic relations with immediate neighbouring countries.
- C.A military doctrine aimed at ensuring security in the Indian Ocean Region.
- D.A policy to provide unilateral aid to all developing countries globally.
Show Answer
Answer: B
Option B correctly describes the 'Neighbourhood First' policy. It is a foreign policy initiative of India that emphasizes strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties with its immediate neighbours in South Asia. This policy aims to foster goodwill, enhance regional cooperation, and address common challenges, as exemplified by initiatives like the South Asia Satellite. Option A is related to the 'Act East' policy. Option C describes a security doctrine, not the 'Neighbourhood First' policy. Option D is too broad and does not specifically define the 'Neighbourhood First' policy.