What is GPS ? Explain the recent efforts made by India to create its own GPS system.

Question

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

GPS is a satellite navigation system giving real-time location and timing worldwide, and denial of access during the Kargil War pushed India to build its own. Its answer is NavIC (IRNSS), seven ISRO satellites with 15 ground stations, giving better than 20 metre accuracy over India and 1,500 km beyond.

**Introduction**

GPS is a global satellite navigation system crucial for strategic and commercial sectors. India’s reliance on foreign GPS, especially during conflicts like Kargil, underscored the need for an indigenous system to ensure autonomy and uninterrupted service.

**Institutional Framework and Indigenous Capacity**

2. **ISRO and Ground Network**: ISRO leads NAVIC’s design, launch, and operation, supported by 15 ground stations for satellite control and navigation management.

3. **GAGAN for Aviation**: Collaboration between ISRO and Airport Authority of India enhances GPS accuracy over Indian airspace, improving civil aviation safety.

4. **Strategic Autonomy Focus**: The Ministry of Defence and Department of Space prioritize reducing dependence on foreign systems like US GPS and Russian GLONASS for military use.

**Implementation Challenges and Sectoral Outcomes**

2. **Dual-Use Applications**: It supports ==Andhra Pradesh’s== coastal fisheries, disaster relief, and maritime safety, boosting regional economic activity.

3. **Interoperability Efforts**: NAVIC receivers work alongside GPS and GLONASS, though seamless compatibility and interference remain challenges.

4. **Operationalization and Adoption**: Full operational status is ongoing, with efforts to integrate NAVIC into commercial devices and government services, including ==Andhra Pradesh’s== disaster frameworks.

**Way Forward**

1. **Expand Satellite Constellation**: Launch more satellites and upgrade ground infrastructure for robust service.

2. **Promote Indigenous Manufacturing**: Support local production under Make in India⟦1⟧ to reduce imports.

3. **Enhance Civil-Military Integration**: Improve coordination for coastal security and disaster response in ==Andhra Pradesh==.

4. **International Collaboration**: Engage in interoperability agreements to improve accuracy and strategic partnerships.

**Conclusion**

NAVIC marks a major step toward India’s technological sovereignty, reducing foreign dependence and enhancing strategic capabilities, supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat and SDG 9 through innovation and infrastructure development.

What is GPS ? Explain the recent efforts made by India to create its own GPS system.

Model answer

Practise this question

Indian Space Programme, ISRO, Satellites and DRDO23 questions

Ghissu