Tripura plans wider use of space technology for border security, agriculture, disaster management and development, with officials urging students to embrace science, innovation and startups.
Tripura is set to expand the use of space technology for strengthening security along the India-Bangladesh border and supporting agriculture, disaster management and development activities across the state, Science, Technology and Environment Minister Animesh Debbarma said on Tuesday.
Speaking at a seminar organised ahead of National Space Day, Debbarma said satellite-based technologies could play an increasingly important role in addressing the state’s development and security requirements. The programme was held at Pragna Bhawan to create awareness among students and young people about the growing importance and practical applications of space science and technology.
National Space Day is observed on August 23 to commemorate India’s historic achievement in space exploration. On August 23, 2023, India successfully landed the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft on the Moon. Referring to the achievement, Debbarma said the successful landing of the Vikram lander marked a significant new chapter in the country’s space research and demonstrated India’s growing capabilities in space technology.
The minister urged students to develop a scientific temperament and remain curious about new ideas and innovations. He said curiosity, imagination and the willingness to explore new possibilities are essential for progress in science and technology.
Debbarma also recalled the contribution of Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma to India’s space programme while encouraging the younger generation to take greater interest in scientific research and technological development.
Highlighting the importance of satellites in modern governance, the minister said space-based applications have significant potential in areas such as weather forecasting, agriculture, disaster management and environmental monitoring. For a geographically sensitive state like Tripura, he said, the technology could also contribute to improved monitoring and security along the international border with Bangladesh.
He further highlighted the achievements of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), stressing that technological progress should involve effective cooperation between humans and machines. According to Debbarma, Tripura may be a small state in geographical terms, but its aspirations should remain ambitious.
“Although Tripura may be a small state, its dreams must be big,” he said, calling upon students to develop innovative ideas that could contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The seminar was jointly organised by the Tripura Space Applications Centre (TSAC) and the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), Shillong. NESAC scientist Shyam S. Kundu also addressed the gathering and encouraged students to explore entrepreneurship and consider launching startups in science and technology.
Kundu spoke about the NE-SPARKS initiative, under which students from the Northeast are being introduced to opportunities in science and technology. He also highlighted a special initiative under which 800 students from the Northeast, with 100 students from each of the eight states, visited an ISRO centre in Bengaluru.
He further discussed ISRO’s Young Scientist Programme, which provides school students with exposure to different fields of science and opportunities to deepen their understanding of scientific research and space technology.
Kundu also explained the role of space and other advanced technologies in disaster management. He said technological tools can assist authorities in planning, monitoring and implementing more effective measures to respond to disasters and reduce their impact.
| Also Read: Tripura launches T-RISE Portal to empower emerging startup entrepreneurs |
Chaitanya Murthy, Principal Secretary of the Department of Science, Technology and Environment, Tripura, also urged students to pursue higher studies in science and build successful careers in scientific and technological fields.
The seminar highlighted the growing importance of space-based applications in Tripura and the potential for technology-driven solutions to support security, agriculture, environmental management and broader development goals.
