(a) the details of satellites launched by ISRO specifically to predict accurate weather forecast, rainfall, cyclones etc. with a view to helping common man, farmers and fishermen;
(b) whether the Government proposes to launch more satellites in the country to provide all useful information for common people, agriculturists, fishermen and rural industries; and
(c) if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PG & PENSIONS AND IN THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE
(DR. JITENDRA SINGH):
(a) At present, India has four satellites operational in the orbit namely, INSAT-3D, INSAT-3DR, Megha-tropiques and Scatsat-1 providing data on various weather parameters viz. clouds, outgoing long-wave radiation, atmospheric motion vector, vertical profiles of temperature & humidity, sea surface temperature, ocean surface winds, radiation budget etc. The meteorological data obtained from INSAT-3D & 3DR every 15 minutes and humidity profile data of SAPHIR on-board Megha-tropiques is being operationally assimilated in the numerical weather models by India Meteorological Department (IMD) for improving weather forecast. The Ocean surface wind vector data from SCATSAT-1 is also being used operationally for prediction of cyclone track, its intensity & landfall with improved accuracy. The fishing sector is being supported through advisories on Potential Fishing Zones and the ocean state forecast generated by Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS).
(b) Yes, Madam.
(c) ISRO proposes to launch 17satellites for earth observation, including weather satellites during next three years. The data from these satellites will be used to ensure data continuity for operational applications and enhance satellite-enabled services, which include (i) advisories on weather, pest infestation, agro-meteorology to support farming operations; (ii) advisories on potential fishing zones for fishermen; (iii) rural development applications viz. crop intensification, wasteland inventory, identifying ground water prospect zones, inland aquaculture suitability.
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