India launching Samudrayaan for ocean resources: Official

TIRUPATI: Indian scientists are gearing up for a ground-breaking Samudrayaan mission, following in the footsteps of Gaganyaan.

“Plans are to launch the project as early as next year,” said Union Ministry of Earth Sciences secretary Dr. M. Ravichandran. He was speaking at the National Conference on Science and Technology Missions organised jointly by the Innovation Science and Technology Foundation (ISTF), Tirupati, and Vigyan Bharati at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Tirupati, on Tuesday.

Samudrayan, part of the Deep Ocean Technology Mission, will explore the largely uncharted depths of the ocean floor, studying marine resources and biodiversity.

Dr. Ravichandran said a specialised submarine that can carry three aquanauts is being built to facilitate this research. Additionally, the project will focus on deep-sea conductivity research to support the conservation of marine aquatic organisms.

The senior official said the blue economy, encompassing various marine-related activities, contributes approximately four per cent to India's economic growth rate.

NITI Aayog member Dr K. Saraswat emphasised comprehensive development in the science and technology sector for a stable society.

Director General of Electronics and Communication Systems at Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Dr. B.K. Das provided insights into India's radar and weapon capabilities, underscoring the organisation’s relentless pursuit of technological advancement.

Santa Biotech founder Dr Varaprasada Reddy emphasised on value of knowledge for humanity. He shared the backstory behind developing the hepatitis B vaccine, emphasising that hard work with dedication can yield successful results.

IIT Tirupati director Dr. Satyanarayana shared the institute's commitment to expanding research efforts. ISTF president Dr. D. Narayana Rao said their organisation provides students and scholars with research opportunities for breakthrough results.

Vigyan Bharati representative Trista Thakur and ISTF secretary T. Narayana Rao participated in the conference.