The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a new scheme to boost research and development in the field of earth sciences. The scheme, named PRITHVI (PRITHvi VIgyan), will be implemented by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) during the period from 2021-26 at an overall cost of Rs 4,797 crore.
PRITHVI: Objectives and Benefits
According to the official press release, one of the primary objectives of PRITHVI is to augment and sustain long-term observations across the atmosphere, ocean, geosphere, cryosphere, and solid earth. These observations will help in understanding the complex interactions among various components of the earth system and provide inputs for weather and climate services, disaster management, ocean resources, water security, mineral exploration, and geohazard mitigation.
The scheme also aims to enhance India’s resilience in the face of climatic and environmental challenges by developing state-of-the-art models, tools, and technologies for earth system prediction and management. The scheme will also foster scientific excellence and innovation by supporting cutting-edge research projects, human resource development, and international collaboration in the domain of earth sciences.
Some of the expected outcomes of PRITHVI are:
- Improved weather and climate forecasts with higher accuracy and lead time
- Early warning systems for cyclones, floods, landslides, earthquakes, and tsunamis
- Integrated coastal zone management and marine spatial planning
- Assessment and mapping of marine living and non-living resources
- Exploration and exploitation of deep-sea minerals and hydrothermal deposits
- Enhanced geothermal energy potential and geoscientific database
- Strengthened polar research and Antarctic expeditions
PRITHVI: How will this benefit India?
The scheme will benefit India in multiple ways. Some of the benefits are:
- It will enhance India’s capabilities in earth science research and innovation, which will help in addressing the emerging challenges posed by climate change, natural disasters, resource scarcity, etc.
- It will create opportunities for socio-economic development by providing reliable and timely information and services related to weather, climate, ocean, water, minerals, energy, etc. to various stakeholders such as farmers, fishermen, industries, planners, policymakers, etc.
- It will strengthen India’s position as a global leader in earth science research and cooperation by participating in international projects and platforms such as IPCC, UNFCCC, etc.
- It will generate employment and skill development for the youth by creating a demand for qualified professionals in the field of earth sciences.
- It will inspire the young generation to pursue careers in science and technology by showcasing the achievements and potential of earth science research.