(a) whether the performance of three, out of seven remote sensing satellites, has been below their maximum capacity;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the revenue generated from these seven satellites in operation has been below expectations;
(d) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and
(e) the measures taken for the optimum utilization of the said satellites and realization of maximum revenue?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PG & PENSIONS AND IN THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE
(DR. JITENDRA SINGH):
(a) & (b)
At present, there are 19 Remote Sensing satellites (including Meteorological satellites) operational in orbit. These satellites are being utilised to their capacity to meet the requirements of resource monitoring, infrastructure planning, enabling weather forecasting, disaster management support including host of societal applications. The services derived from these satellites are being used by various Ministries/Departments in agriculture, water resources, forest and environment, urban and rural development, ocean and meteorology.
(c) & (d)
Indian Remote Sensing satellites are meant for meeting national needs for public good services. These satellites are not meant for revenue generation. The benefits are accrued through applications derived from these satellites.
(e) In order to accelerate the use of satellites and its services, the Department has taken following measures - (i) conduct of user interaction meets and utilisation programmes; (ii) capacity building for space applications; (iii) creation of an outreach facility.
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