The proposed system would offer exclusive coverage of India’s coastal waters, inland waterways, and port regions.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday announced that the ministry is exploring the launch of a dedicated satellite or acquisition of a transponder to enhance India’s maritime surveillance, port operations, and coastal governance.
Speaking on the occasion of National Space Day, Sonowal said, “Our Ministry should plan to launch a satellite of our own or acquire a dedicated transponder for the Indian maritime sector. This will strengthen India’s coastal and port management infrastructure through advanced space-based solut
The proposed system, according to the minister, would offer exclusive coverage of India’s coastal waters, inland waterways, and port regions. It would integrate with national maritime databases to enable real-time monitoring of vessel traffic, navigational safety, and port operations.
“This will help in enhanced vessel traffic monitoring, real-time ship tracking across India’s coastline and EEZ (exclusive economic zone), early identification of congestion and improved navigational safety,” Sonowal added.
“It will also improve preparedness for search-and-rescue, pollution control and disaster management, while reducing dependence on foreign navigation systems and supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.”
The initiative is part of a broader push to leverage India’s space capabilities for maritime applications. Sonowal praised the country’s progress in space science, noting that India has emerged as a global leader in technology-driven governanc
“India has made remarkable progress as a nation in science and technology and has built one of the world’s most respected and efficient space programmes,” he said.
The move aligns with the government’s vision to integrate space-based technologies into critical infrastructure sectors, including shipping and waterways, and reflects a growing emphasis on indigenous innovation and strategic autonomy in maritime operations.