Role of Communications Satellites in National Development

摘要

Recognising the immense potential of communications satellites for establishing connectivity to far-flung and remote areas and for using television broadcasting for mass education, India undertook experimental projects to demonstrate the need for having a domestic communications satellite that paved the way for establishing Indian National Satellite (INSAT) system. Starting with multipurpose communications satellites INSAT-1 series combining telecommunications, TV broadcast and meteorological services procured from abroad, ISRO embarked on design, development of more advanced INSAT -2,3 and 4 series of satellites indigenously. The telecommunications, TV broadcast, radio networking and meteorological services were operationalised with INSAT-1 system in 1983. While providing uninterrupted services to the country in the above areas, ISRO undertook several innovative experiments using communications satellites. Staring with using INSAT satellites for training and developmental communications, societal applications such as tele-education and tele-medicine facilities were established. Use of INSAT satellites for disaster management support has also been established. A new concept namely Village Resource Centres (VRC) combining the services of INSAT satellites and Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) Satellites for providing holistic services at village level has also been operationalised.