Syllabus: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
Budgetary Allocation and Key Announcements
- Union Budget allocated ₹13,416.20 crore to the Department of Space (2026–27).
- Major focus placed on deep-space exploration and astrophysics research.
- Two advanced observatories proposed in Ladakh region.
- Includes 30-metre National Large Optical-Infrared Telescope project.
- Also proposes National Large Solar Telescope near Pangong Lake.
- COSMOS-2 Planetarium, Amaravati nearing completion.
- Upgradation planned for Himalayan Chandra Telescope, Hanle control systems.
Global Context and Strategic Need
- Only few nations prioritise astronomy: U.S., China, Japan, European Union.
- Large observatories dominate frontier scientific discoveries globally.
- Researchers worldwide compete for limited observation time slots.
- Funding agencies often prioritise national researchers’ access.
- Indian scientists face restricted access to global facilities.
Concerns on Fund Utilisation
- Actual spending has lagged behind budgetary allocations.
- Underutilisation caused delays in mission planning and execution.
- Several proposed missions reportedly not financially supported.
- Experts stress need for streamlined execution mechanisms.
Dependence on Foreign Facilities
- India relies on overseas telescopes and observatories for data.
- Collaborative projects include radio, optical, space-based observations.
- Access to high-resolution data remains externally dependent.
- Bureaucratic resistance noted on buying fractional telescope time.
- Such collaborations seen as vital interim solutions.
Institutional and Technological Strengthening
- Domestic ecosystem expanding with optical and radio telescopes.
- Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT), Pune cited as major asset.
- AI-driven data processing centres being developed.
- Growth of public-private partnerships in space sector.
Role of Private Sector and Institutions
- Rise in space startups collaborating with ISRO experts.
- IN-SPACe (2020) created to promote private participation.
- Statutory oversight needed for quality control and coordination.
- Private interests may not always align with national priorities.
Capability Gaps and Future Vision
- India lacks comparable large optical telescope facilities.
- No telescope operates in sub-millimetre wavelength range.
- Sub-millimetre astronomy vital for studying galaxies and proto-stellar disks.
- Proposal included in Astronomy & Astrophysics Mega Science Vision 2035.
Strategic Significance
- Indigenous facilities can reduce foreign dependence.
- Encourages students toward advanced domestic research careers.
- Helps curb scientific brain drain.
- Realisation of mega projects key to space leadership ambitions.
