'Safety Through Satellites': ISRO Chief V. Narayanan Says 10 Satellites Are Watching Over India 24/7
As India continues its upward climb in space technology, ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan offered a compelling glimpse into the nation’s satellite-driven security and development strategy. Speaking at the 5th Convocation Ceremony of the Central Agricultural University (CAU) in Tripura’s Lembucherra on Sunday, Narayanan revealed that a dedicated fleet of 10 satellites is operating non-stop to protect India’s vast terrain and seashores.
Eyes In The Sky
“If we want to ensure the safety of our country, we have to serve through our satellites. We have to monitor our 7,000 km-long seashore. Without satellite and drone technology, we can’t achieve many things,” Narayanan said during his address. He emphasised the indispensable role of these technologies in securing the nation’s borders and supporting disaster management efforts.
Highlighting the transformation in India’s emergency response, he added, “Earlier, during disasters, thousands of people lost their lives, but today this is not the case.” From telemedicine and education to weather forecasting and television broadcasting, India’s space infrastructure has evolved into a multifaceted asset benefiting both strategic and civilian sectors.
From Moon Missions to Global Collaborations
India’s rise in the space sector has not gone unnoticed globally. The ISRO chief proudly recalled that Chandrayaan-1 was the first mission to find evidence of water molecules on the Moon. “India was the first country to achieve this,” he noted. He also pointed out that India has launched 433 satellites for 34 countries, underlining its growing global footprint.
Narayanan further announced an ambitious collaboration with the United States, where the two nations will jointly build what he described as “the world’s most expensive and advanced earth-imaging satellite,” set to be launched from Indian soil.
India’s satellite capabilities are also aiding G20 countries in tracking climate change and other crucial areas, he said, showcasing ISRO's commitment to addressing global challenges.
Bridging the Past and the Future
Reflecting on India’s journey, Narayanan painted a stark contrast between the past and present. “Until 1975, India had no satellite technology and was nearly 70 years behind advanced nations in space development,” he remarked.
He reminded the audience of the country’s agricultural struggle in the 1950s and 60s when food production was a meagre 54 million tons. “Now, India produces over 250 million tons of food and exports to many countries,” he said, attributing this success partly to the technological interventions enabled by space research.
Citing progress across various sectors — from electricity and manufacturing to life expectancy and reduced child and maternal mortality — Narayanan said these milestones signify India’s growing influence.
Fostering the Next Generation of Space Thinkers
In an initiative to build scientific curiosity among young minds, Narayanan announced that 100 science students from each of the eight northeastern states would be invited to visit ISRO’s Bengaluru centre. He underlined ISRO’s ongoing support for regional development projects in the Northeast.
Encouraging the graduating students to give back to society, he said, “There is no substitute for hard work and smart work. Total commitment and strong personal values are essential. Self-confidence and self-motivation are crucial. With noble leadership qualities, students must strive to be good human beings.”
The convocation was held at the College of Fisheries in Lembucherra, with CAU Chancellor Prof. Pradeep Kumar Joshi presiding over the ceremony. CAU, headquartered in Imphal, has campuses across all eight northeastern states.
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