Reaching For The Stars: Assam To Launch Its Own Satellite 'ASSAMSAT' With ISRO's Support

Guwahati: The Himanta Biswa Sarma -led Assam government has revealed plans to launch its own satellite, ASSAMSAT, which will help in collecting data for critical socio-economic projects and enhance border surveillance. The Assam government's pioneering initiative, unveiled by Finance Minister Ajanta Neog during the state budget presentation for 2025-26 in the state assembly, is poised to catapult Assam to the forefront of innovative governance.

According to the Assam minister, ASSAMSAT, a collaborative project with IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre) and the Department of Space, Government of India, will provide a continuous and reliable flow of data for socio-economic projects. The data provided by the satellite will be instrumental in informing policy decisions, driving development, and ensuring effective resource allocation. Moreover, the satellite will offer dedicated services for agriculture, disaster management, infrastructure development, and border security management, thereby strengthening the state's resilience and competitiveness.

The satellite's capabilities will also extend to supporting police operations, providing critical information for law enforcement agencies to combat crime and maintain law and order. Furthermore, ASSAMSAT will facilitate the development of AI-powered agri-hubs, enabling farmers to make data-driven decisions and improve crop yields.

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Empowering Students, Strengthening Innovation

The government stated that the ASSAMSAT project is also aimed at inspiring the next generation of innovators and scientists. Students from Assam will be involved in building experimental satellites with the support of INSPACe and India's space agency, ISRO , strengthening a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. The initiative will not only equip students with cutting-edge skills but also nurture a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the state's development.

In addition to the satellite project, the Assam government has announced plans to establish a Bamboo Smart City, promoting sustainable and eco-friendly urban planning. The state will also explore the development of a water metro and ropeway system, enhancing connectivity and transportation infrastructure.

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Enhancing Border Security, Disaster Response

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asserted on the importance of ASSAMSAT in enhancing border security and disaster response. "If we have our own satellite, it can tell us if any foreigner tries to enter illegally, give prior information on impending floods, help with weather reports that will benefit our farmers," he stated. The satellite's real-time data will enable authorities to respond swiftly and effectively to emerging situations, thereby ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens.

Meanwhile, the experts have commended the government's decision to launch a satellite, saying that the Assam government's decision to launch its own satellite is a testament to its commitment to leveraging technology for socio-economic development. With ASSAMSAT, Assam is poised to become a beacon of innovation and progress, inspiring other states to follow suit.