NESAC maps India-Myanmar border, expands space technology role in NE: Jitendra Singh
Shillong, July 14
The North Eastern Space Applications Centre is playing an increasingly significant role in strengthening India's border security while accelerating development across the Northeast through space-based technologies, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh said on Tuesday.
Reviewing NESAC's ongoing programmes at its headquarters in Umiam, Meghalaya, the minister said the Centre is carrying out geo-spatial mapping of the India-Myanmar international border and inter-state boundaries in the Northeast, alongside projects covering agriculture, disaster management, water resources, forestry and governance.
Describing NESAC as a vital link between India's space programme and grassroots development, Singh said the institution has emerged as a strategic partner in supporting both national security and regional development by harnessing satellite and geospatial technologies.
Officials informed the minister that NESAC is currently implementing nearly 130 space application projects across the eight northeastern states.
Of these, around 50 projects have been completed, while 78 are under implementation in sectors including agriculture, forestry, urban planning, geosciences, satellite communication, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) applications, disaster management and capacity building.
With floods affecting the Northeast almost every monsoon, Singh directed NESAC to further enhance the accuracy of its flood early warning systems to provide more location-specific and timely alerts to vulnerable communities.
He also urged the Centre to collaborate with state governments in replicating successful rainwater harvesting models, including the initiative at the Ramakrishna Mission in Cherrapunjee, to strengthen long-term water security across the region.
Highlighting bamboo as one of the Northeast's key economic resources, the minister called for closer coordination between NESAC, the North East Cane and Bamboo Development Council (NECBDC) and state governments to strengthen bamboo resource mapping and promote value addition.
Singh also stressed the strategic importance of geospatial technologies in sensitive border areas and asked NESAC to strengthen its 'ManzilNE' GeoTourism dashboard by involving private tourism stakeholders.
He further advocated deeper collaboration with central ministries, state governments, research institutions, start-ups and industry to accelerate the adoption of space technologies.
He said institutions like NESAC would continue to play a crucial role in improving governance, disaster resilience and sustainable development in the Northeast.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally, some attention to the Northeast beyond just politics. Mapping the Myanmar border is crucial given the tensions in Manipur and Mizoram. But we need to ensure local communities are involved, not just top-down planning.
Impressive use of space technology for grassroots development. The bamboo mapping project sounds particularly promising for sustainable livelihoods in the region.
Jitendra Singh ji is doing good work but 78 projects still under implementation? Hope they don't get stuck in bureaucratic delays like so many govt initiatives. The ManzilNE tourism dashboard could be a game-changer if executed well. 🚀
Great to see bamboo being highlighted as an economic resource! The Northeast has incredible potential for bamboo-based industries. Space tech for mapping will help small farmers and artisans.
130 space application projects is a big number. Hope the flood warning system actually reaches remote villages in time, not just government offices. Ground-level implementation is key.
Space tech for border security and development - that's the right approach for the Northeast. But let's not forget the human element: these projects should create local jobs and training opportunities for NE youth. 🌄
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