sign in sign up
<<
Home , Astrosat, Bhuvan, EMISAT, GEO Imaging Satellite, GSAT, ISRO Propulsion Complex

REPORT NO.

298

PARLIAMENT OF RAJYA SABHA

DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS

TWO HUNDRED NINETY EIGHTH REPORT

DEMANDS FOR GRANTS (2017-2018) OF THE (DEMAND NO. 91)

st (Presented to the Rajya Sabha on 31 March, 2017) (Laid on the Table of Lok Sabha on 31st March, 2017)

(Presented to the Rajya Sabha on ______, 2013) (Laid on the Table of Lok Sabha on ______, 2013)

Rajya Sabha Secretariat, New Delhi March, 2017, Chaitra, 1939 (Saka) Web site: http://rajyasabha.nic.in E-Mail : [email protected]

Hindi version of this publication is also available

PARLIAMENT OF INDIA RAJYA SABHA

DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS

TWO HUNDRED NINETY EIGHTH REPORT

DEMANDS FOR GRANTS (2017-2018) OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SPACE (DEMAND NO. 91)

(Presented to the Rajya Sabha on 31st March, 2017) (Laid on the Table of the Lok Sabha on 31st March, 2017)

Rajya Sabha Secretariat, New Delhi March, 2017/Chaitra, 1939 (Saka)

C O N T E N T S

PAGES 1. COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE (i)

2. INTRODUCTION (ii)

*3. ACRONYMS

4. REPORT

*5. RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS-AT A GLANCE

*6. MINUTES

______

* To be appended at printing stage

COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE (2016-17) (Constituted on 1st September, 2016) ------1. Shrimati Renuka Chowdhury –– Chairperson

RAJYA SABHA

2. Shri Prasanna Acharya 3. Shri S.R. Balasubramoniyan 4. Shrimati Vandana Chavan 5. Shri C.P. Narayanan 6. Shri Parimal Nathwani 7. Shri Rangasayee Ramakrishna 8. Dr. T. Subbarami Reddy 9. Shri Ronald Sapa Tlau 10. Ch. Sukhram Singh Yadav

LOK SABHA

11. Shri Badruddin Ajmal 12. Shri Muzaffar Hussain Baig 13. Shri E.T. Mohammed Basheer 14. Shri Prabhatsinh Chauhan 15. Shri Pankaj Chowdhary 16. Kum. Sushmita Dev 17. Shri Ninong Ering 18. Shri Laxman Giluwa 19. Dr. K. Gopal 20. Shri Daddan Mishra 21. Shri Chirag Paswan 22. Shri Shivaji A. Patil 23. Shri Nanabhau Falgunrao Patole 24. Shri Nagendra Kumar Pradhan 25. Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar 26. Shrimati Sandhya Roy 27. Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh 28. Shri Nagendra Singh 29. Shri Vikram Usendi 30. Shrimati M.Vasanthi 31. Shri Prabhubhai N. Vasava ______SECRETARIAT Shri M.K. Khan, Joint Secretary Shri Narmadeshwar Prasad, Joint Director Shri Mohd. Salamuddin, Deputy Director Shri Rajiv Saxena, Assistant Director INTRODUCTION

I, the Chairperson of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science & Technology, Environment & Forests, having been authorised by the Committee to present the Report on its behalf, present this Two Hundred Ninety Eighth Report of the Committee. This Report deals with the detailed Demands for Grants (2017-2018) of the Department of Space (Demand No. 91).

2. In the meeting of the Committee held on the 16th February, 2017, the Secretary and other Officers of the Department of Space gave an overview of the various activities of the Department and the Members sought clarifications on various aspects of the performance of the Department to enable it to scrutinise the Demands for Grants.

3. The Committee expresses its thanks to the officers of the Department for replying to the clarifications sought by the Members and placing before it the required material to enable the Committee to scrutinise the Demands for Grants of the Department of Space.

4. The Committee considered and adopted the Report in its meeting held on the 29th March, 2017.

NEW DELHI; (RENUKA CHOWDHURY) March 29 ,2017 Chairperson, 8 Chaitra, 1939 Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science & Technology, Environment & Forests, Rajya Sabha.

REPORT INTRODUCTION In terms of Rule 270 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Rajya Sabha, examination of budgetary proposals is one of the primary mandates of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees. In this context, the Department- related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science & Technology, Environment & Forests considered the Demands for Grants of the Ministries/Departments within its purview during the third week of February, 2017. This Report of the Committee deals with the examination of the Demands for Grants for the year 2017-18 (Demand No.91) of the Department of Space. The Committee considered the Demands for Grants (2017-18) of the Department of Space in its meeting held on 16th February, 2017. 2. ORGANISATION 2.1 Space activities in our country were initiated with the setting up of Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) in 1962. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) was established in August 1969. The has set up the Space Commission and the Department of Space (DOS) in 1972. The DOS is responsible for implementing the policies framed by the Space Commission. These are carried out through the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Grant-in-aid institutions viz., Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL), North-Eastern Space Applications Centre (NE-SAC), Semi- Conductor Laboratory (SCL) and Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST). 2.2 The Secretariat of the Department of Space and the Headquarters of ISRO are located in Bengaluru. The Programme Offices at ISRO Headquarters co-ordinate the overall programmes like communication, satellite navigation, observation, launch vehicle, space science, atmospheric science, space industry development, disaster management support, international co-operation, publications and public relations, budget and economic analysis and human resources development. 2.3 The major Centres, Units and establishments of DOS/ISRO, responsible for carrying out research and development activities as well as for undertaking various projects and programmes, are given below: (a) Space Centre (VSSC), Thiruvananthapuram, provides the technology base for the country’s indigenous launch vehicle (rocket) development; (b) Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), with its facilities located at Bengaluru and Thiruvananthapuram is responsible for development of liquid propulsion and cryogenic propulsion systems for satellite and launch vehicles; (c) ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), erstwhile LPSC, Mahendragiri has the responsibility for assembly, integration and testing of storable and cryogenic liquid rocket engines and stages, spacecraft thrusters testing in sea level and high altitude conditions, storage of liquid and cryogenic propellants and production of liquid hydrogen etc. (d) Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) at , , is the spaceport of India providing launch base to indigenously built launch vehicles. Also, it provides the facilities for processing of solid rocket motors; (e) ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC), Bengaluru, is entrusted with the prime responsibility for development of ; (f) The Laboratory for Electro-Optics Systems (LEOS), Bengaluru has the responsibility for development and productionisation of electro-optical sensors for satellites; (g) Space Applications Centre (SAC), , carries out research and development in space applications as well as development of application payloads; (h) Development and Educational Communication Unit (DECU), Ahmedabad, is involved in the conception, definition, planning and socio/techno-economic evaluation of development communication programmes; (i) National Centre (NRSC), Hyderabad is responsible for satellite data acquisition and processing, data dissemination, aerial remote sensing and decision support for disaster management. (j) Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), Dehradun is a premier training and educational institute set up for developing trained professionals in the field of Remote Sensing, Geo-informatics and GPS Technology for Natural Resources, Environmental and Disaster Management. (k) ISRO Telemetry, Tracking & Command Network (ISTRAC), with its ground stations at Bengaluru, Sriharikota, Lucknow, Bearslake, Russia, Biak (Indonesia), Brunei, etc. provides the telemetry, tracking and command support and spacecraft mission management for the Indian remote sensing satellite missions, space science missions and programmes; (l) (MCF) with its main facility at Hassan in Karnataka and backup facility at Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh has the responsibility for control and operation of INSAT/GSAT/METSAT satellites; (m) ISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU), Thiruvananthapuram, carries out research and development in the area of inertial systems for satellites and launch vehicles. 2.4 Also, a National Natural Resources Management System (NNRMS), with the Department of Space (DOS) as the nodal agency, has been established to ensure optimal utilisation of natural resources using remote sensing data in conjunction with conventional techniques. Under NNRMS, five Regional Remote Sensing Service Centres (RRSSCs) at Bengaluru, Dehradun, Jodhpur, and Nagpur have been set up for execution of remote sensing application programmes in the respective regions. Organisations receiving Grants-in-aid: (a) Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad, an autonomous institution supported mainly by the Department of Space, carries out research in space sciences. (b) The National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL) set up at Gadanki near Tirupati, conducts atmospheric research. (c) The North-Eastern Space Applications Centre (NE-SAC) established as an autonomous body under the Department of Space provides space technology inputs for developmental activities in the North-Eastern Region. (d) The Semi-conductor Laboratory (SCL) located at Chandigarh is a research and development society and is entrusted with the design and development of Very Large Scale Integrated Circuit (VLSI) devices and development of micro-electronic systems to meet the strategic needs of the country. (e) The Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) is an autonomous body under the Department with the objective of creating quality human resources tuned to suit the requirements of state-of-art space research programme. The Institute offers graduate, post-graduate and doctoral programmes in the area of space science, technology and applications. The annual intake of the Institute is about 150-200 students. 2.5 Apart from this, RESPOND programme of ISRO supports sponsored research activity in space science, space applications and space technology in various national academic/research institutions and Space Technology Cells in premier technological institutes of the country through grants-in-aid. Limited 2.6 Antrix Corporation Limited (ACL), Bengaluru is a wholly owned Government of India Company under the administrative control of the Department of Space. Antrix Corporation Limited was incorporated as a private limited company owned by Government of India in September 1992 as a marketing arm of ISRO for promotion and commercial exploitation of space products, technical consultancy services and transfer of technologies developed by ISRO. Another major objective is to facilitate development of space related industrial capabilities in India. As the commercial and marketing arm of ISRO, Antrix is engaged in providing space products and services to international customers worldwide. With fully equipped state-of-the-art facilities, Antrix provides end- to-end solution for many of the space products, ranging from supply of hardware and software including simple subsystems to a complex spacecraft, for varied applications covering communications, earth observation and scientific missions; space related services including remote sensing data service, Transponder lease service; Launch services through the operational launch vehicles (PSLV and GSLV); Mission support services; and a host of consultancy and training services. 3. ANALYSIS OF THE PERFORMANCE OF THE DEPARTMENT DURING THE 12TH FIVE YEAR PLAN PERIOD 3.1 As the 12th Five Year Plan has virtually come to an end, the Committee assessed the performance of Department of Space both in term of physical as well as financial achievements during the 12th Plan period. 3.2 The Committee notes that the Indicative Plan Outlay for the 12th Five Year Plan of the Department was Rs.39750.00 crore. The Committee observes that at the end of 12th Plan period (i.e. March 2017), funds to the tune of Rs.30882.79 crore at RE stage have been allotted to the Department out of which Rs.29463.40 crore has been utilised (upto January, 2017) by the Department which is 95.40 per cent of the total funds made available to it. The Secretary, Department of Space, while making presentation during the meeting of the Committee held on 16th February, 2017 assured the Committee that the RE allocation for 2016-17 of Rs.8045.28 would be fully utilised by the Department by the end of the current financial year. 3.3 Performance of the Department in terms of financial targets envisaged and achievement thereon during the 12th FYP period is given in the table below:- (Rs. in crore) Year BE RE Actual Percentage Expenditure Utilisation 2012-2013 6715.04 4880.03 4856.28 99.51 2013-2014 6792.04 5172.04 5168.95 99.94 2014-2015 7238.00 5826.00 5818.34 99.86 2015-2016 7388.19 6959.44 6920.01 99.43 2016-2017 7509.14 8045.28 6719.33* 83.51* (upto January, 2017) Total for 12th FYP 35642.41 30882.79 29463.40 95.40 *RE 2016-17 allocation are expected to be fully utilised as assured by the Secretary, Department of Space. 3.4 The Committee expresses its satisfaction over the capacity of the Department to utilise the funds made available for the whole of 12th Five Year Plan period. The financial performance of the Department also indicates that had the Department been given the full amount of Rs.39750.00 crore as projected by the Department in its Indicative Plan Outlay for the 12th Five Year Plan period, the Department would not only have utilised the fund fully but made out of it also. 3.5 The Committee also sought to know about the details of the physical targets set and achievement thereon of the Department during the 12th Five Year Plan period. In response, the Department informed the Committee about the plan programmes envisaged during the 12th Plan and the achievements so far in the areas of Communication Satellite, Satellite based Navigation, Earth Observation and Atmospheric Sciences Programme, Disaster Management Support (DMS) Programme, Space Transportation Systems and Space Sciences & Planetary Exploration, etc. A brief summary of the same as submitted by the Department is given as under:- 4. COMMUNICATION SATELLITE 12TH PLAN TARGETS 4.1 In the area of Satellite Communications, the approach during 12th Five Year Plan has been to augment the INSAT/GSAT capacity in order to bridge the gap between the demand and supply of the transponders for meeting all the requirements of the country and also to maintain sufficient spare capacity to meet contingencies. Development of state-of-the-art technologies and latest applications areas shall also be pursued. 4.2 In order to meet the emerging demand for operational transponder, 14 communication satellites are planned to be realised during the 12th Plan period for (a) increasing the transponder capacity; (b) introducing new generation broadband VSAT systems; (c) introduction of Ka band systems; (d) building high power S-band satellite mobile communications; and (e) introduction of new generation geo-imaging satellite. 4.3 Achievements so far a) GSAT-10 communication satellite with 12 Ku Band, 12 C Band and 6 Lower Extended C Band transponders and a GAGAN (GPS and GEO augmented navigation) payload was successfully launched on-board Ariane-V from Kourou, French Guiana on September 29, 2012. GSAT-10 spacecraft has augmented the INSAT/GSAT capacity with 30 transponders. b) Launch of GSAT-14 communication satellite on-board GSLV-D5 with indigenous cryogenic stage on January 5, 2014. GSAT-14 communication satellites has added 14 communication transponders (6 ext-C band, 6 Ku-band and 2 Ka-Band) to INSAT/GSAT capacity. c) GSAT-16 communication satellite, carrying 48 communication transponders (24 Ku-band, 12 C-band and 12 Ext. C Band) was successfully launched using procured launch services on December 7, 2014. GSAT-16 has augmented the INSAT/GSAT system capacity for DTH, TV broadcasting, tele-communication, rural communications and other societal benefits. Besides,GSAT-7 communication satellite with UHF band and S band was launched for special users. d) GSAT-6 communication satellite with five beams in S-band and a national beam in C-band was successfully launched on-board GSLV-D6. One of the advanced features of GSAT-6 satellite is its S-Band Unfurlable Antenna of 6 m diameter - largest satellite antenna realised by ISRO. This antenna is utilised for five spot beams over the Indian main land. The spot beams exploit the frequency reuse scheme to increase frequency spectrum utilisation efficiency. e) GSAT-15 communication satellite, carrying 24 communication transponders in Ku-band as well as a GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) payload, was successfully launched on November 11, 2015. f) GSAT-18 communication satellite carrying 48 communication transponders and Ku-band beacon was successfully launched on October 6, 2016. 4.4 The Committee notes that against a target of 14 communication satellites as planned by the Department to be realised during the 12th Plan period, the Department could manage to launch only 7 communication satellites viz., GSAT-10, GSAT-14, GSAT-16, GSAT-7, GSAT-6, GSAT-15 and GSAT-18 during the 12th Plan period. The Committee feels that the Department could have done better to realise its fixed targets of 14 communication satellites. The Committee is of the considered opinion that keeping the increasing demand of the transponders for meeting requirements of the country, it is imperative that the Department should accordingly strategise its action plan so as to keep pace with the increasing demand and achieve the targets set for the purpose in a time frame manner. 4.5 The Committee further notes that four more communication satellites (GSAT- 9/, GSAT17, GSAT-19, and GSAT-11) are in advance stage of realisation and are planned to be launched during 2017 by the Department. The Committee hopes that the task undertaken by the Department of launching these four communication satellites will be achieved within the stipulated time. The Committee hopes that the launch of these four communication satellites will further help the Department to bridge the gap between demand and supply of the transponders in the country. 5. SATELLITE BASED NAVIGATION 12TH PLAN TARGETS 5.1 Satellite based Navigation service is an emerging satellite based system with commercial and civilian applications. Establishment of an independent Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) over Indian region with a constellation of 7 satellites was planned to be realised during the 11th Five Year Plan period. Considerable progress has been achieved in realising the various subsystems of these satellites and the constellation shall be completed during the 12th Plan period. Implementation of the final operational phase for satellite based augmentation system GAGAN (GPS Aided Geo Augmented Navigation) over the Indian Airspace is also an important target for 12th Plan. Formulation of Indian Satellite Navigation Policy to facilitate growth of Satellite based navigation application will also be pursued. Work towards augmentation of IRNSS system with 4 additional satellites shall also be initiated during the 12th Plan. 5.2 Achievements so far a) The constellation of Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), now rechristened as NavIC (Navigation-Indian Constellation), has been realised. The space segment comprises of unique constellation of 7 satellites with three in Geostationary (GEO) orbit and four in inclined Geo-synchronous (GSO) Orbit. All the 7 satellites were launched using Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) during the above mentioned period. The main objective of the system is to provide positioning services with an absolute position accuracy of better than 20 meters over Indian Land Mass and a region extending about 1500 Kms around India. b) GAGAN (GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation) has been certified by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for space based safety-of-life applications in aviation sector and enable better Air Traffic Management over India. With this, India became the fourth country in the world (after , USA & ) to offer Global Navigational Satellite System (GNSS) based precision approach services to civil aviation sector. 5.3 The Committee notes the achievements of the Department in satellite based navigation during the 12th Plan period. The Committee, however, is surprised that the Department has not mentioned anything about the progress made in the formulation of Indian Satellite Navigation Policy as envisioned by the Department during the 12th Plan period. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Department should furnish a current status note in this connection at the earliest for the consideration of the Committee. 5.4 The Committee observes that against the budgetary allocation of Rs.90.00 crore in RE 2016-17 under the component 'National Navigation System (NSS)', the Department could only utilise Rs.67.18 crore upto January, 2017 which is 74.64 per cent of the total allocation. The Committee expresses its concerns about this underutilisation of the funds. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Department should exercise financial prudence and make sure that the allocation made on account of NSS is utilised fully and optimally. 6. EARTH OBSERVATION AND ATMOSPHERIC SCIENCES PROGRAMME 12TH PLAN TARGETS 6.1 The thrust areas of Earth Observation (EO) and Atmospheric Sciences Programme for the 12th Plan will be in continuation of established services with improved capabilities with three thematic series of Indian Earth Observations (EO) Satellites i.e. Natural resources, Cartography and Ocean & Atmosphere, including all-weather capability; development of newer state-of-the-art capabilities to meet specific user requirements; augmentation of ground segments for effective utilization of the various sensors; and special emphasis application missions in the areas of agriculture, environment, large scale mapping, infrastructure planning, oceanography, climate and atmospheric studies. To achieve the above, 8 Earth Observation missions are planned during the 12th Five Year Plan period. With the realization of these missions, there would be significant improvements in the areas of short term weather and ocean state forecasting, natural resources management, high resolution cartography, large scale mapping, space based Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) with enhanced spatial, spectral, radiometric and temporal resolution. 6.2 Achievements so far a) India’s first microwave remote sensing satellite, Radar Imaging Satellite (RISAT- 1), was successfully launched on 26th April, 2012 on-board PSLV-C19. With the launch of RISAT-1, India’s remote sensing capability has been enhanced to day and night imaging under all-weather conditions. The data from the satellite has enabled applications in agriculture, particularly paddy monitoring in kharif season and management of natural disasters like flood and cyclone. b) SARAL (Satellite with Argos and Altika), an Indo-French joint mission for oceanographic applications, was successfully launched on-board PSLV-C20 on February 25, 2013. SARAL satellite carries two instruments on-board i.e. i) a Ka band altimeter, Altika, for ocean applications and ii) a data collection platform, ARGOS, for collecting variety of data from ocean buoys. c) Two advanced meteorological satellites viz. INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR were successfully launched on July 26, 2013 and September 08, 2016 respectively. These two satellites have augmented the capability to provide various meteorological as well as search and rescue services. d) -2 Series Satellite along with 19 co-passenger satellites were successfully launched on-board PSLV-C34 on June 22, 2016 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota. Cartosat-2 series satellite will be useful for cartographic applications, urban and rural applications, coastal land use and regulation, utility management like road network monitoring, water distribution, creation of land use maps, precision study, change detection to bring out geographical and manmade features and various other Land Information System (LIS) and Geographical Information System (GIS) applications. e) SCATSAT-1 satellite carrying a scatterometer on-board was successfully launched by PSLV-C35 on September 26, 2016. SCATSAT-1 is a continuity mission for Oceansat-2 Scatterometer to provide vector data products for , cyclone detection and tracking services to the users. f) Resourcesat-2A satellite equipped with 3-Tier imaging system with Advanced Wide Field Sensor (AWiFS), Linear Imaging Self Scanner-3 (LISS-3) and Linear Imaging Self Scanner-4 (LISS-4) cameras was successfully launched on-board PSLV-C36 on December 07, 2016. RESOURCESAT-2A satellite will be useful for agricultural applications like crop area and crop production estimation, drought monitoring, soil mapping, cropping system analysis and farm advisories generation. 6.3 The Committee while noting the targets achieved by the Department under the Earth Observation and Atmospheric Sciences Programme during the 12th Plan period expresses its dissatisfaction over the fact that against the allocated amount of Rs.50.00 crore in RE 2016-17 under the component 'Resourcesat-2A', the Department could actually utilise Rs.38.03 crore only which is just 76.06 per cent of the allocated amount. Since the underutilisation of funds adversely impacts the overall growth of any Programme, the Committee recommends that the Department should exercise more caution and vigil while utilising the budgetary support and ensure optimum utilisation of the budgetary allocation. 7. DISASTER MANAGEMENT SUPPORT (DMS) PROGRAMME 12th Plan Targets 7.1 The Disaster Management Support (DMS) Programme of ISRO is intended to provide near real time information support and services from imaging and communication satellites towards efficient management of disasters in the country. Major programmatic targets of DMS programme during 12th Five Year Plan period will be Operationalization of National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM), Continuation of impact mapping and monitoring of natural disasters with improved turnaround time and with newer capabilities, acquisition of close contour data through Air-borne Laser Terrain Mapping (ALTM), extension of the communication network to the District Emergency Operation centres, geo-location based services such as Search & Rescue and distress alerts, operational dissemination of the information and products directly to the affected areas, Operational utilization of early warning systems and extension of the Hydro- meteorological network. 7.2 Achievements so far a) The Communication, Meteorological and Earth Observation Satellites together form the core towards monitoring and management of natural disasters. The Decision Support Centre established at National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) is engaged in monitoring natural disasters such as flood, cyclone, agricultural drought, landslides, earthquakes and forest fires at operational level. The value added products/information generated in near real time helps in disaster preparedness, damage assessment, rehabilitation and mitigation. Satellite phones and transportable satellite terminals establish critical emergency communication to facilitate data and voice transfer between inaccessible areas. These satellites have provided near real time support during events of disasters witnessed by the country viz. J&K Floods, HudHud Cyclone, Vardah Cyclone and J&K Landslides. The massive landslides blocking Sun Koshi River in Northern in August 2014 and Phuktal River in Zanskar region of J&K in January-March 2015 were monitored regularly using Indian Remote Sensing Satellites. Flood inundation maps and information on their progression & recession were disseminated on daily basis to concerned agencies. During forest fire season, locations of active forest fires have been provided to concerned agencies. Major support has been provided during Uttarakhand forest fires during April-May 2016. National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM) is operationalised since June 2013 and is currently used by all the 36 States and UTs. b) ISRO provides active support to the disaster management globally through two initiatives called International Charter ‘Space and Major Disasters’ and Sentinel Asia by supply of satellite imagery from Indian satellites to other countries affected by disasters. ISRO has timely responded to the requests from Nepal, Vietnam, , Indonesia, , Japan, , PAM and Taiwan during the events of disaster. Under ISRO-UNESCAP initiative, India supported by operationally deploying a dedicated Drought Monitoring System in Sri Lanka along with required training. 7.3 The Committee expresses satisfaction on the success achieved by the Department on account of its Disaster Management Support (DMS) Programme during the 12th Plan period. The Committee, however, is constrained to note that the Department could only utilise Rs.11.96 crore out of Rs.20.00 crore (RE 2016- 17) earmarked for this programme which is just 59.8 per cent till January, 2017. The Committee recommends that the Department should revisit its fund utilisation capacity for the purpose and take necessary corrective steps so as to ensure that the funds are utilised optimally and fully. 8. SPACE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS 12TH PLAN TARGETS 8.1 The main focus of the Space Transportation Systems during 12th Five Year Plan period will be towards achieving self-sufficiency in launching our satellites, developing launch vehicles for enhanced payload capability, adopting appropriate outsourcing strategies for assuring productionisation of launch vehicles, enhancement of infrastructure for launch vehicles and developing advanced technologies for the future. Towards this, enhancement of level of production of PSLV Vehicle systems with vigorous industry participation, completion of qualification of indigenous Cryogenic Upper Stage (CUS), proving GSLV with indigenous cryogenic stage as a reliable workhorse launch vehicle, completion of development and qualification of C25 Engine & Stage, completion of one experimental and one developmental flight of GSLV Mk III with 4.0 T GTO capability, progress on the development of Semi cryogenic engine with the establishment of test facilities, augmentation of spaceport infrastructure to meet the launch vehicle requirements shall be pursued. During the 12th Plan period, 17 PSLV missions, 6 GSLV MK-II missions and 2 GSLV MK-III missions (including one experimental mission) are planned to be accomplished. 8.2 Achievements so far a) So far, eighteen operational flights of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) have been successfully achieved i.e. Operational flight of PSLV-C19 carrying India’s microwave remote sensing satellite, RISAT-1 (on April 26, 2012); operational flights of PSLV-C21 carrying French Remote Sensing Satellite-SPOT-6 and Japanese microsatellite – PROITERES - on commercial basis (on September 9, 2012); PSLV-C20 carrying Indo-French joint mission SARAL along with 6 micro/nano satellites (on February 25, 2013); PSLV-C22 carrying India's first navigational satellite, IRNSS-1A (on July 1, 2013); PSLV-C25 carrying India's first mission to Mars - Mars Orbiter Spacecraft (on November 5, 2013); PSLV- C24 carrying IRNSS-1B (on April 4, 2014); PSLV-C23 carrying French Remote Sensing Satellite-SPOT-7 and four co-passenger satellites (on June 30, 2014); PSLV-C26 carrying IRNSS-1C (on October 16, 2014); PSLV-C27 carrying IRNSS-1D (on March 28, 2015); PSLV-C28 carrying 3 DMC-3 satellites and two co-passenger satellites from UK (on July 10, 2015); PSLV-C30 carrying and six co-passenger satellites from international customers (on September 28, 2015); PSLV-C29 carrying TeLEOS-1 satellite and five co- passenger satellites from international customers (on December 16, 2015); PSLV- C31 carrying IRNSS-1E satellite (on January 20, 2016); PSLV-C32 carrying IRNSS-1F satellite (on March 10, 2016); PSLV-C33 carrying IRNSS-1G satellite (on April 28, 2016); PSLV-C34 carrying Cartosat-2 series satellite along with 19 co-passenger satellites (on June 22, 2016); PSLV-C35 carrying Scatsat-1 satellite along with 7 co-passenger satellites (on September 26, 2016) and PSLV- C36 carrying Resourcesat-2A satellite (on December 07, 2016);. b) India joined the elite club of few nations capable of indigenously development and flight test of cryogenic technology with the successful flight testing of GSLV-D5 with indigenous cryogenic stage on January 5, 2014. GSLV-D5 placed the communication satellite GSAT-14 into its designated orbit on August 27, 2015. Another successful flight testing of GSLV-D6 with indigenous cryogenic stage was carried out to place GSAT-6 communication satellite into Geo-synchronous Transfer Orbit. In its first operational mission with indigenous cryogenic stage, GSLV-F05 successfully launched INSAT-3DR into a Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO). c) The first experimental flight of GSLV-Mk III was successfully conducted on December 18, 2014 from Sriharikota. It carried Crew module Atmospheric Re- entry Experiment (CARE) module as its payload. This flight has validated the complex atmospheric regime of flight, and demonstrated the integrity of design of GSLV Mk III heavy lift next generation launch vehicle. This flight has also demonstrated re-entry characteristics of the Crew module which is of relevance to future . The first developmental flight of GSLV Mk III with high thrust Cryogenic Upper Stage is targeted during first Quarter of 2017. d) Good progress has been made towards development of Semi-Cryogenic Engine. The design of the engine has been successfully carried out. The fabrication work has been assigned to industries for realisation of various subsystems of the engine. Work towards, establishment of specialised test facilities and material development are progressing well. e) The first experimental mission of ISRO’s Scramjet Engine towards the realisation of an Air Breathing Propulsion System was successfully conducted on August 28, 2016 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota. With this flight, critical technologies such as ignition of air breathing engines at supersonic speed, holding the flame at supersonic speed, air intake mechanism and fuel injection systems have been successfully demonstrated. f) India’s first winged body aerospace vehicle, Reusable Launch Vehicle-Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD), was successfully flight tested on May 23, 2016. From the peak altitude of 65 km, RLV-TD began its descent followed by atmospheric re- entry at around Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound). After successfully surviving a high temperature of re-entry, RLV-TD successfully glided down to the defined landing spot over Bay of Bengal. In this flight, critical technologies such as autonomous navigation, guidance & control, reusable thermal protection system and re-entry mission management have been successfully validated. 8.3 The Committee notes the achievements of the Department in the field of Space transportation. The Committee, however, observes that in order to capture the global market, the Department further needs to strengthen its spaceport infrastructure to meet the launch vehicle requirements. The Committee therefore, recommends that the Department should increase its production capabilities so as to make the launch vehicles ready in larger number and capture the global market. 9. SPACE SCIENCES & PLANETARY EXPLORATION 12TH PLAN TARGETS 9.1 Space Sciences & Planetary Exploration missions contribute significantly towards understanding the mysteries of the universe, our existence and provide an towards development of cutting edge technologies. Through space science investigations, we seek to understand the processes governing radiation, evolution of planetary system, formation of galaxies, evolution of stellar systems and the universe. Missions initiated during the 11th Plan, such as, Chandrayaan-2, Astrosat-1 and Aditya-1 will be realised in 12th Five Year Plan. Undertaking India's First Mission to Mars, will be an important milestone during the 12th Plan period. In addition, an X-Ray polarimeter (POLIX) to study the x-ray polarization from bright x-ray emitting objects shall also be pursued. 9.2 ACHIEVEMENTS SO FAR a) Successful Orbital insertion of Mars Orbiter spacecraft into Martian orbit after a long voyage of more than 300 days on September 24, 2014. Mars Orbiter, India's first interplanetary probe, was launched by PSLV-C25 at 1438 hours on November 5, 2013 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. With successful Mars Orbit Insertion, ISRO become the fourth space agency to successfully send a spacecraft to Mars orbit. India became the first nation to have achieved this feat in its very first attempt. Mars Orbiter has successfully completed its designed life of six months in Martian orbit and the life of the spacecraft has been extended. b) ASTROSAT satellite, India’s first dedicated astronomy satellite was successfully launched by PSLV-C30 on September 28, 2015. ASTROSAT enables simultaneous multi-wavelength ( to X-Ray) observations to study Stars and Galaxies. It has been providing useful observations for the scientific community. c) Work towards realisation of various scientific instruments, sub-systems of Orbiter, Lander and Rover modules of Chandrayaan-2 mission is progressing well. The launch of Chandrayaan-2 mission is targeted during 2017-18. d) Aditya-L1 mission, envisaged to be placed in an orbit about 1.5 million kilometres from the Earth (at Lagrange point or the L1 point) to ensure continuous observation of the Sun. The design studies of the spacecraft and its 6 scientific instruments for observation of solar corona, photo-sphere, chromo-sphere and solar wind are under progress. 9.3 The Committee appreciates the achievements of the Department with regard to its Space Sciences & Planetary Exploration programme during the 12th Plan period. The Committee hopes that the target of the Department for launching Chandrayaan-2 mission in 2017-18 will be realised within the fixed time. 9.4 The Committee further observes that the Aditya-L1 mission of the Department which was initially set to be realised during the 12th Five Year Plan has not been realised till date. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Department should speed up the launch of Aditya-L1 mission within a fixed time frame. 10. CAPACITY BUILD-UP 12TH PLAN TARGETS 10.1 Few specialized technical facilities for supporting the development, fabrication, integration and testing of the satellite systems, and launch vehicles systems, as well as launch and mission management have been planned during the 12th Plan period. The critical facilities considered amongst others during the 12th Plan include establishment of Third Launch Pad at Sriharikota to support the increased launch frequency of PSLV, GSLV, Multiple Object Tracking Radar for tracking the space debris to safeguard our space assets, Second Vehicle Assembly Building to improve the launch turn around, Second Cryogenic Main Engine and Stage Test facility at Mahendragiri, solar cell production facility to minimise dependency for solar cell from foreign sources and setting up of Space Technology Parks at different locations to facilitate industry participation in Indian Space Programme. 10.2 ACHIEVEMENTS SO FAR a) Multi-Object Tracking Radar at SDSC, Sriharikota has been made operational. Work towards realisation of Second Vehicle Assembly building at SDSC, Sriharikota is progressing well. b) Approval for setting up of an Integrated Cryogenic Engine and Stage Test facility and Cryo Turbo Pump Test Facility at ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri has been obtained with an estimated cost of Rs.818.58 crore and Rs.94 crore respectively. Work towards realisation of these facilities has been initiated. 10.3 The Committee is not satisfied with the progress achieved by the Department during the 12th Five Year Plan on account of capacity build-up. The Committee notes that the Department envisioned establishment of Third Launch Pad at Sriharikota to support the increased launch frequency of PSLV, and GSLV during the 12th Plan period whereas no budgetary support has been sought by the Department for the purpose during the years 2015-16 and 2016-17. The Committee fails to understand as to why the Department did not seek any budgetary support for the purpose. The Committee strongly feels that the Department has failed to lay due focus on the establishment of Third Launch Pad. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Department to furnish the reasons for being so tardy on this count. 10.4 The Committee notes that the Department has failed to furnish any information about the progress achieved on account of setting up of Space Technology Parks at different locations to facilitate industry participation in Indian Space Programme. The Committee would like to be informed of the progress achieved in the matter. 11. BUDGET ALLOCATION FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2017-18 The following table presents the budgetary allocation made in favour of the Department of Space for the year 2017-18:- (Rs. in crore) Sl. No. Programme/Project/Centre/Unit Budget 2017-18 I Establishment Expenditure 1. Secretariat - Economic Services (DOS) 29.51 2. ISRO Headquarters 193.80 Total - Establishment Expenditure (I) 223.31 II Central Sector Schemes 3. Space Technology 5850.69 4. Space Applications 1767.01 5. Space Sciences 188.11 6. INSAT Satellite Systems 518.56 Total - Central Sector Schemes (II) 8324.37 III Other Central Expenditure a Autonomous Bodies 7. Indian Institute of Space Science & Tech. (IIST) 100.00 8. Semi-conductor Laboratory (SCL) 210.00 9. North-Eastern Space Applications Centre (NE-SAC) 21.63 10. National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL) 30.00 11. Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) 180.00 Total-Autonomous Bodies (III.a) 541.63 b Others 12. International Co-operation 4.40 Total - Other Central Expenditure (III) 546.03 Grand Total 9093.71 11.1 The Committee desired to know the total projected demand made by the Department for BE 2017-18 and whether the funds allocated in BE 2017-18 are sufficient to carry out the various activities of the Department. The Department, in reply, informed that the Department had made a projection of Rs.14331.82 crore for BE 2017-18 against which an amount of Rs.9093.71 crore has been allocated. Accordingly, the Department has re-prioritised its projects/programmes/schemes in order to comply with the ceilings communicated by the Ministry of Finance. The Committee was also informed that the Department has carefully re-prioritised the projects/programme to ensure that the on- going projects/programmes are not affected. It was submitted that depending on the approval status of new projects, progress on on-going missions and facility augmentation, the Department would approach Ministry of Finance for additional funds at RE stage. 11.2 The Committee further notes that the BE 2017-18 of the Department is Rs.9093.71 crore which was Rs.8045.28 crore in RE 2016-17, registering an increase of Rs.1,048.43 crore. The Committee, therefore, enquired about the strategy of the Department to utilise the increased budgetary allocation in BE 2017-18. Responding to the query of the Committee, the Department submitted the Action Plan for the year 2017-18 which is as follows:- Action Plan 2017-18 Action Plan Action Taken / Proposed to be Taken a) Launch and operationalisation of  Realisation of various subsystems of the Cartosat-2E remote sensing Satellite satellite are under progress. on-board PSLV.  Launch of Cartosat-2E satellite is planned during second half of 2017-18. b) Launch of advance communication  GSAT-11 Satellite is targetted to be satellite, GSAT-11 by using procured shipped to the launch site during Q2 of launch Services 2017.  Launch of GSAT-11 Satellite is scheduled during Q3 of 2017. c) Launch of GSAT-17 communication  GSAT-17 satellite is targeted to be satellite by using procured launch shipped to the launch site during Q2 of Services 2017.  Launch of GSAT-17 Satellite is scheduled during Q2 of 2017. d) Preparation towards second  Readiness and integration of S-200, L110 developmental flight of GSLV Mk and C25 stages of the vehicle. III launch vehicle  Flight testing of 2nd developmental flight of GSLV-Mk III to launch GSAT-20 communication satellite e) Readiness for launch of India’s  Readiness of Orbiter, Lander and Rover second Mission to moon – modules of Chandrayaan-2 mission. Chandrayaan-2 with Orbiter, Lander  Spacecraft level assembly, integration, and Rover. testing and progress towards launch is targeted during 2017-18 f) Readiness for launch of two spare  Assembly, Integration and Testing and satellites of IRNSS (NavIC) readiness for launch are planned during Constellation. 2017-18 g) Progress in GSAT-follow-on  Realisation of various subsystems for the missions, EO missions (Cartosat-3, ongoing missions are planned. Oceansat-3, Resourcesat-3 Series,  Necessary approvals will be obtained for HRSAT Constellation), Aditya-L1, HRSAT Constellation of satellites Xposat and Space docking experiment etc)

11.3 The Committee notes the action plan of the Department for the year 2017- 18. The Committee is hopeful that the Department with its increased allocation in BE 2017-18 would be able to achieve its targets envisioned for the year and make best use of the budgetary allocation. 12. SPACE TECHNOLOGY 12.1 The Committee notes that under the head ‘Space Technology’ provisions for various activities of different ISRO Centres namely Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), ISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU), Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC), Laboratory for Electro-Optics Systems (LEOS), Satish Dhawan Apace Centre-SHAR (SDSC-SHAR), ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) & Master Control Facility (MCF) and also for various space technology projects undertaken by the Department consisting of Launch Vehicle Projects & Satellite Projects including Developmental and Operational Projects have been included. 12.2 The following table indicates the BE, RE allocations and actual expenditure (upto January, 2017), year-wise, for the years 2015-16, 2016-17 and BE allocation for 2017-18 under the Space Technology scheme as provided by the Department:- (Rs. in crore) Sl. Name of 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017- No. Organisation/ 18 Scheme BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals BE Space Technology 1 Vikram Sarabhai 1029.00 1113.15 1083.63 1131.32 1185.00 1005.06 1362.00 Space Centre (VSSC) 2 ISRO Inertial 95.00 63.00 63.92 60.00 55.00 45.37 66.88 Systems Unit (IISU) 3 Liquid Propulsion 309.00 278.18 275.77 311.75 377.19 311.25 454.77 Systems Centre (LPSC) 4 ISRO Propulsion 238.00 217.30 215.00 333.00 250.00 205.92 533.54 Complex (IPRC) 5 ISRO Satellite 386.00 382.55 385.07 418.00 490.00 436.23 628.60 Centre (ISAC) 6 Laboratory for 60.00 50.65 49.43 45.00 55.00 46.80 72.10 Electro-Optics Systems (LEOS) 7 Satish Dhawan 559.00 592.68 569.64 598.00 635.57 535.72 867.19 Space Centre - (SDSC-SHAR)

8 ISRO Telemetry 185.00 159.30 148.05 170.00 165.00 134.28 209.00 Tracking & Command Network (ISTRAC) 9 Master Control 90.00 79.55 79.69 108.00 110.00 87.91 170.91 Facility (MCF) 10 Polar Satellite 312.25 280.39 344.45 400.00 400.00 388.57 501.00 Launch Vehicle - Continuation Project (PSLV-C) 11 GSLV- 195.00 195.00 192.99 180.00 155.10 125.16 170.00 Operational (Including MK-III Operational) 12 GSLV Mk III 120.00 120.00 130.00 100.00 110.00 106.64 50.00 Development 13 Cryogenic Upper 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Stage Project (CUSP) 14 Space Capsule 0.04 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Recovery Experiment (SRE- I&II) 15 Manned Mission 21.50 12.00 10.50 12.00 19.60 17.24 1.00 Initiative/Human Space Flight Programme (HSP) 16 Trisonic Wind 1.00 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.10 0.00 10.00 Tunnel Facility Project (TWT) 17 Semi-Cryogenic 150.00 143.00 142.76 160.00 112.18 79.32 180.00 Engine Development 18 Semi-Cryogenic 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.10 Engine Clustering 19 Semi- Cryogenic 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 Stage Development 20 Advanced Launch 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 Vehicle Development 21 Geo-Imaging 80.00 50.79 52.64 70.00 40.00 28.42 60.00 Satellite (GISAT 22 Resourcesat-2A 50.00 49.88 55.05 75.00 50.00 38.03 15.00 23 Cartosat-3 50.00 18.30 18.17 30.00 5.00 3.57 20.00 24 Scatsat 30.00 11.00 13.60 35.00 27.50 21.62 10.00 25 RISAT-1A 2.00 10.20 9.82 35.00 8.00 2.58 25.00 26 OCEANSAT-3 & 25.00 14.70 0.10 30.00 15.00 32.99 65.00 3A 27 Cartosat-2E 45.00 22.53 22.20 50.00 8.00 5.92 45.00 28 RISAT-3 2.00 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.10 0.00 0.10 29 Navigational 120.00 107.30 99.97 80.00 90.00 67.18 50.00 Satellite Systems (NSS) 30 NASA-ISRO 50.00 25.98 22.47 100.00 15.00 15.09 30.00 Synthetic Aperture Radar Mission (NISAR) 31 Resourcesat-3S 0.00 0.00 0.00 20.00 0.15 0.00 10.00 &3SA 32 Resourcesat-3 & 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 10.00 3A 33 High Resolution 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 Satellite Constellation (HRSAT) 34 Realization of 120.00 130.00 130.00 245.00 200.00 133.27 163.50 Second Vehicle Assembly Building (SVAB) 35 Solid Propellant 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 50.00 Space Booster Plant (SPROB) 36 Third Launch Pad 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 . 37 Development of 26.00 12.00 11.20 12.00 6.00 9.30 16.00 Space Materials & Components 38 Advance Ordering 24.00 11.40 8.30 5.00 1.56 1.56 0.00 Total 4374.79 4150.83 4134.42 4814.27 4586.05 3885.00 5850.69 * * As on January, 2017 12.3 The Committee noted the difference in the budgetary allocations in BE & RE 2016-17 and BE 2017-18 under Space Technology and enquired about the reasons for the same. The Department, in response, submitted that an amount of Rs.4814.27 crore was allocated in BE 2016-17 which was then reduced to Rs.4586.05 crore at RE stage due to the following reasons:- i. Phasing out expenditure, to next financial year, with respect to establishment of Integrated Engine Test facility and fabrication of subsystem-semi-cryogenic Engine development project (Rs.47.82 crore). ii. Postponement of the expenditure on procurement of electronic components, materials and subassemblies related to Earth Observation missions viz. Cartosat- 2E, GISAT, NISAR, RISAT-1A, Resourcesat-3 series and Cartosat-3 based on the actual requirements of the projects (Rs.52.40 crore). iii. Phasing out of milestone payments to next financial year with respect to setting up of Second vehicle Assembly building and Integrated Cryogenic Engine & Stage Test facility based on the progress (Rs.128 crore). 12.4 The Department further informed the Committee that the budgetary allocation of Rs.5850.69 crore in BE 2017-18 is essentially for i) the major ongoing Launch Vehicle related projects such as GSLV-Operational, GSLV MK III Development, PSLV Continuation, Critical Technologies for Human Space Flight, Semi-cryogenic Engine Development etc; ii) Earth Observation missions such as Resourcesat-2A, Resourcesat – 3 Series Satellites, Oceansat-3/3A, Cartosat-2E, Cartosat-3, High Resolution Satellite Constellation, RISAT-1A etc.; iii) the technology development initiatives, advanced R&D, technical facilities augmentation/replacement and organisation and infrastructure maintenance of related centres/units viz., the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) and ISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU), ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC), Laboratory for Electro-optics Systems (LEOS), Satish Dhawan Space Centre-SHAR (SDSC-SHAR), ISRO Telemetry, Tracking & Command Network (ISTRAC), Master Control Facility (MCF), etc. 12.5 The Committee notes the explanation furnished by the Department with regard to the BE, RE and Actual expenditure under the Space Technology scheme of the Department in 2016-17. The Committee also notes that the Department did not seek either any budgetary support or very negligible support for its crucial programmes such as Cryogenic Upper Stage Project (CUSP); Semi-Cryogenic Engine Clustering; Semi-Cryogenic Stage Development; Advanced Launch Vehicle Development; Resourcesat-3 & 3A; Solid Propellant Space Booster Plant (SPROB); High Resolution Satellite Constellation (HRSAT); Third Launch Pad and Space Capsule Recovery Experiment (SRE-I & II) during the year 2015-16 and 2016-17. The Committee is of the view that all these programmes/projects are very crucial for the overall growth of our space technology programme and would like to be informed of the reasons for not allocating any funds for them in 2015-16 and 2016- 17 and in some cases even in 2017-18. 12.6 The Committee further observes that the fund utilisation capacity of the Department during the year 2016-17 (upto January, 2017) with regard to some of the important programmes/projects viz., Semi-Cryogenic Engine Development; Geo- Imaging Satellite (GISAT); RISAT-1A; and Realisation of Second Vehicle Assembly Building (SVAB) has been found to be unsatisfactory where the Department could only utilise the allotted funds to the tune of 70.70 per cent, 71.05 per cent, 32.23 per cent and 66.63 per cent respectively in 2016-17 (upto January, 2017). 12.7 The Committee is also surprised to note that the Department failed to use even a single penny from the allotted budgetary allocation of Rs.10.00 lakh and Rs.15.00 lakh in 2016-17 (upto January, 2017) on account of its programmes/projects like RISAT-3 and Resourcesat – 3S & 3SA respectively. The Committee recommends that the Department should improve its performance with regard to fund utilisation capacity and take necessary action in the matter to make best of the budgetary allocations made under the various components of Space Technology. 12.8 The Committee hopes that the Department would utilise the budgetary allocation of Rs.5850.69 crore made in BE 2017-18 under the Space Technology scheme and the targets set for the year 2017-18 would be achieved with the help of earnest efforts of the Department. The Committee further appreciates the efforts undertaken by the Department for the promotion of the space technology during the last three years in the country and hopes that the people of the country would continue to reap the benefits of the technological advancements in space technology. 13. SPACE APPLICATIONS 13.1 Under Space Applications programme, provision for the activities of ISRO Centres namely Space Applications Centre (SAC), Development and Educational Communication Unit (DECU), National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) & Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS) and also for various Space Application Projects undertaken by the Department consisting of National Natural Resources Management System (NNRMS), Earth Observation Applications Mission (EOAM) and Disaster management Support (DMS) has been included. 13.2 The Committee enquired about the BE, RE allocations and actual expenditure for the years 2015-16, 2016-17 (upto January, 2017) and BE allocation for 2017-18 under the Space Application scheme. In response, the Department provided the following information:- (Rs. in crore) Sl. Name of 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017- No. Organisation/ 18 Scheme BE RE Actuals BE RE Actual BE s Space Applications 1. Space 452.00 524.0 500.62 578.39 650.00 558.65 1105.39 Applications 2 Centre (SAC) 2. Development and 44.41 14.20 13.13 22.00 23.02 19.66 28.53 Educational Communication Unit (DECU) 3. National Remote 305.00 285.0 289.40 312.00 342.00 274.69 511.54 Sensing Centre 0 (NRSC) 4. Indian Institute 44.00 41.47 38.85 45.00 45.00 35.52 58.10 of Remote Sensing (IIRS) 5. Earth 5.20 3.70 2.87 5.00 3.75 2.03 4.00 Observation Applications Mission (EOAM) 6. National Natural 56.70 50.10 43.65 35.00 23.00 17.49 34.45 Resources Management System (NNRMS) 7. Disaster 30.00 35.12 33.30 22.00 20.00 11.96 25.00 Management Support (DMS) Total 937.31 953.61 921.82 1019.39 1106.77 920.00 1767.01 * * As on January, 2017 13.3 The Committee notes that under the Space Applications programmes, a provision of Rs.1767.01 crore has been sought by the Department in BE 2017-18 which, as informed by the Department, is primarily towards:  Realisation of enhanced services with improved computational and storage facilities.  R&D activities such as atomic clocks, TWTAs, detectors, miniaturised power supplies, Hyper spectral imager etc, leading to payload development for application projects.  Development of technical infrastructure such as ground segment for GSAT-11 & GSAT-19, virtual ground station, Ku-band Data reception station, Payload Fabrication and Testing Facility etc. 13.4 The Committee is satisfied with the overall utilisation (83.17 per cent upto January, 2017) of the budgetary allocation under the head ‘Space Technology’ for the year 2016-17 by the Department. The Committee, however, observes that the Department has utilised the budgetary allocation to the tune of 54.13 per cent and 59.8 per cent only on account of Earth Observation Applications Mission (EOAM) and Disaster Management Support (DMS) respectively upto January, 2017. The Committee is of the opinion that both these components are essential in giving fillip to the overall growth of Space Applications in the country. Thus, the Department should make earnest efforts to fully utilise the budgetary allocation made for these two components. 13.5 The Committee also hopes that the Department would make all corrective measures to improve its fund utilisation capacities and the budgetary allocation of Rs.1767.01 crore in BE 2017-18 would be fully utilised by the Department judiciously towards the realisation of the targets set for the year. 13.6 The Committee enquired about the activities undertaken by the Department helping the Government in managing the natural resources with the help of space technology. Responding to the query of the Committee, the Department informed about the major activities undertaken with regard to space applications area which are as follows:  National Resource Census (NRC) projects on Land Use/Land Cover Mapping and monitoring, wasteland mapping and change analysis, geomorphological and lineament mapping. o Impacts: the entire database is put online for use in public domain wherein many users Private/ NGOs/ Govt/ Academia are extensively using the data for varieties of purposes.  Indian Forest Cover Change Alert System (InFCCAS) for providing information to state departments to take suitable measures to arrest the loss and to initiate afforestation activities. o This is an innovative solution that provides information on the forest loss on near real-time. MOEFCC has been provided with this solution and is linked to Website of the Ministry for its online use.  Remote Sensing & GIS based inputs have enabled Forest Working Plan preparation for Mizoram, Meghalaya and Assam. o The solutions provided using remote sensing and GIS to the State Forest departments is being effectively adopted by the States.  Monitoring Snow and Glaciers of Himalayan Region to provide information on status of snow & glaciers and its depletion. The analysis includes 5 and 10 daily sub-basin-wise snow cover maps, snow accumulation and ablation patterns and snow melt forecasts.  Inventory and monitoring of glacial lakes/water bodies in Himalayan Region & Snowmelt Runoff Forecasting in the Himalayan river basins for planning reservoir operations. o Space data is the most effective means by which snow and glaciers can be monitored and such a solution is consistently being provided to the MOEFCC and MOWR on a regular basis as part of monitoring.  Desertification Status Mapping of India depicting desertification status, process of degradation and severity level. o This is one of the important parameter that needs regular monitoring. Desertification mapping at national scale has been done and provided to MOEFCC and also deployed on public domain for the Ministries to use for taking up specific programs for mitigation. Positive response is seen from even Rural Development Ministry in this matter.  India - Water Resource Information System (WRIS) web based solution for comprehensive data on India’s water resources in a GIS framework.  High-resolution satellite data is being operationally used to monitor the irrigation Infrastructure (canal network) to assess the physical progress and identify the gaps between irrigation potential created and its utilization on the ground. Assessment of irrigation potential was carried out for 103 irrigation projects in two phases. Recently, CWC has taken up assessment for 99 projects under PMKSY. o WRIS is one of the most successful projects implemented for the MOWR. The entire tool is deployed for the Ministry and the same is internalised by the Ministry. o Similarly, the projects related to canal and irrigation infrastructure has been successfully done using space technology for the CWC/MOWR and the same is internalised.  Integrated Watershed Management Project (IWMP) for online monitoring and evaluation of about 86,000 micro-watersheds covering 38.60 M. ha in the country. High resolution satellite images are being used to monitor activities such as creation of structures and the treated watersheds are also being ranked based on cropping intensity, vegetative cover, increase in number and spread of water bodies etc. o One of the successfully implemented Monitoring program of IWMP, adapted by DOLR, MORD across the country thorugh online information system & mobile geotagging based solution.  “Bhuvan Bhujal” Portal is successfully established at NRSC, to identify prospective sites for ground water and suitable sites for recharging. o The project assisted in building 9200 recharge structures and more than 3 lakh wells with 90 % success rate.  Space Based Information Support for Decentralized Planning (SIS-DP) and Empowering Panchayat Raj Institutions Spatially (EPRIS). EPRIS aimed to facilitate outreach activities SIS-DP database along with asset mapping.  Inventory & Monitoring of Village Water bodies for their adoption of Fish Culture. o The project enables online near real-time status monitoring of water bodies in the country. This is specially used by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and also State Govt. water resources ministries, particularly Telangana State – Kakatiya mission. The project is also helping some of the rural areas in inland fisheries related activities.  Assessment of Renewable energy for identifying solar energy potential zones in the country.  Geo-MGNREGA satellite derived Location based services are being utilized for planning and monitoring of assets created annually through the use of mobile-based geo-tagging. o The project is carried out for MoRD to effectively monitor MGNREGA program using space based images and mobile based geotagging techniques. The project is successfully being implemented, using State functionaries by MORD, using the tools provided by ISRO.  Disaster Information Services on major disaster events (flood, drought, landslide, earthquake and forest fire) by establishing Decision Support Centre and database support through National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM).  Outreach of Natural Resources Information through the web portals viz, Bhuvan, MOSDAC and NICES. 13.7 The Committee appreciates the Department for the activities undertaken for helping the Government in managing the natural resources of the country with the help of its space technologies. The Committee hopes that the Department would continue providing the desired support to the Government in managing our natural resources effectively and also provide solution to the other related issues. 14. SPACE SCIENCES 14.1 The Committee notes that under the Space Sciences programme, a provision of Rs.188.11 crore has been sought by the Department in BE 2017-18 which is essentially for Indian Lunar Mission (Chandrayaan-2), Aditya-L1 mission, XPoSat, Space Docking Experiment, Space science programmes of ISRO such as Climate and Atmospheric programme, Space Science Promotion, Payload Sensor Development/Planetary Science Programme etc. 14.2 The Committee also desired to know about the BE, RE allocations and actual expenditure for the years 2015-16, 2016-17 (upto January, 2017) and BE allocation for 2017-18 under the Space Science scheme. In response, the Department provided the following information:-

(Rs. in crore) Sl. Name of 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017- No. Organisation/ 18 Scheme BE RE Actual BE RE Actual BE s s Space Sciences 1. Sensor Payload 2.50 0.90 0.90 0.50 4.63 0.93 12.00 Development/ Planetary Science Programme 2. Sponsored 25.15 24.85 24.22 24.00 25.00 20.73 28.36 Research (RESPOND) 3. Small Satellites 2.40 0.68 0.01 2.10 0.30 0.22 2.40 for Atmospheric Studies & Astronomy 4. Space Science 5.50 20.03 19.47 6.05 3.95 3.80 3.15 Promotion 5. Climate & 31.50 29.68 26.71 35.20 19.00 10.74 32.00 Atmospheric Programme 6. Aditya -L1 20.00 14.00 13.21 25.00 35.00 17.92 40.00 7. Chandrayaan - 40.00 51.50 52.31 80.00 35.00 30.38 50.00 1&2 8. ASTROSAT-1 & 3.00 2.00 1.96 1.00 0.25 0.19 0.00 2 9. Mars Orbiter 6.00 6.65 6.66 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Mission 10. Mars Orbiter 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.10 Mission -II 11. Mission to 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.10 12. X-RAY 0.00 0.00 0.00 5.00 4.54 0.00 10.00 Palarimeter Satellite (XPOSAT) 13. Space Docking 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.00 0.00 10.00 Experiment Mission Total 136.0 150.2 145.45 178.9 127.67 84.91* 188.11 5 9 5 * As on January, 2017 14.3 The Committee noted and enquired about the variation in the budgetary allocation of RE 2016-17 and BE 2017-18. Responding to the query of the Committee, the Department informed that increase in BE 2017-18 is mainly towards completion of Chandrayaan-2 mission and work on other approved missions such as Aditya-L1, Xposat, and space docking experiment (Rs.47.44 crore). In addition, enhanced allocation is sought for Climate and atmospheric studies (ISRO Geosphere Biosphere Program and Atmospheric science program) (Rs.13.00 crore). 14.4 The Committee also enquired about the roadmap prepared by the Department to utilise the budgetary allocation made for the year 2017-18. In response, the Department submitted the roadmap prepared for the purpose which is as follows:- (a) Realisation of Lander, Rover and orbiter modules of Chandrayaan-2; completion of spacecraft level assembly, integration and testing activities and progress towards launch of Chandrayaan-2 mission. (b) Progress in other ongoing missions like Aditya-L1, XPOSAT, Space Docking Experiment etc. (c) Carrying out space science research in the areas of Climate & Atmospheric Sciences. 14.5 The Committee notes the roadmap prepared by the Department for the year 2017-18. The Committee, nonetheless, is constrained to note that the Department failed to utilise the funds made available on account of Sensor Payload Development/Planetary Science Programme under the Space Sciences scheme of the Department. It is observed that against the allocation of Rs.4.63 crore in RE 2016- 17, the Department could utilise Rs.0.93 crore only upto January, 2017 which is just 20.08 per cent utilisation of the allocation. The Committee recommends the Department to take corrective measures to ensure that the Space Sciences Programme does not suffer due to underutilization of funds. 14.6 Similarly, the utilisation under the component Climate & Atmospheric Programme and Aditya – L1 has not been very encouraging given the importance of these programmes. The Committee observes that the Department could utilise Rs.10.74 crore out of Rs.19.00 crore and Rs.17.92 crore out of Rs.35.00 crore as made available in RE 2016-17 on account of these two important programmes, respectively. 14.7 The Committee further notes that the Department just did not spend a single penny upto January, 2017 against the budgetary allocation of Rs.4.54 crore on account of X-Ray Palarimeter Satellite (XPOSAT) during RE 2016-17. The Committee expresses concern about the underutilisation of funds by the Department in many of the Programmes. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Department should take a financial scrutiny of its programmes/scheme on quarterly basis so as to identify the areas where improvement is required and take action thereon accordingly. 15. INSAT SATELLITE SYSTEMS 15.1 The Committee observes that the major projects/missions under INSAT Satellite System essentially include INSAT-3 satellites, INSAT-4/GSAT satellites, GSAT-17, GSAT-18, GSAT-19, GSAT-20 and follow-on missions. The Department informed the Committee that it has sought Rs.518.56 crore in BE 2017-18 towards these programme. 15.2 The Committee enquired about the BE, RE allocations and actual expenditure for the years 2015-16, 2016-17 (upto January, 2017) and BE allocation for 2017-18 under the INSAT Satellite Systems Programme. In response, the Department provided the following information:- (Rs. in crore) Sl. Name of 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017- No. Organisation/ 18 Scheme BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals BE INSAT Operational 1. INSAT -3 17.00 11.08 9.84 14.00 11.00 7.56 6.00 Satellites 2. INSAT -4/GSAT 34.00 16.93 16.29 15.10 19.24 13.51 31.58 Satellites 3. Service Charges 93.00 72.87 102.28 75.00 38.70 68.70 100.00 for Leasing INSAT/GSAT Transponders 4. INSAT-3D 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Launch Services 5. GSAT -7 Launch 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Services 6. Advanced 31.00 33.40 28.42 30.00 769.03 691.06 110.00 Communication Satellite (GSAT- 11) including Launch Services 7. GSAT-15 120.00 131.70 108.12 34.00 55.00 38.42 0.00 Satellite 8. GSAT-15 45.00 39.50 39.22 2.00 0.40 0.40 0.00 Launch Services 9. GSAT-16 45.00 36.22 38.95 1.10 3.50 3.34 0.00 Satellite 10. GSAT-16 1.00 1.50 1.54 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Launch Services 11. GSAT-17 & 95.00 47.72 47.52 120.00 110.00 94.52 100.00 Follow-on Satellites 12. GSAT-17 & 235.00 171.58 168.19 302.50 257.57 258.48 31.78 Follow-on Satellites- Launch Services 13. GSAT-18 95.00 127.00 129.62 120.00 135.00 109.92 33.00 Satellite 14. GSAT-18 412.00 426.30 425.43 55.00 34.96 34.50 2.00 Launch Services 15. GSAT-19 25.00 5.80 5.67 25.00 30.00 26.30 40.00 Satellite 16. GSAT-20 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 1.00 0.00 50.00 Satellite 17. GSAT-21 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 1.00 0.00 1.00 Satellite 18. GSAT-22/23/24/ 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2.00 Satellite 19. GSAT Follow-on 1.00 0.00 0.00 0.20 0.20 0.00 0.20 Satellites Including Launch Services 20 Augmentation of 10.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 1.00 0.00 10.00 Capacity through Leasing of Transponders from Foreign Satellite 21. Procurement of 1.00 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.10 0.00 1.00 Heavier Class Satellites 22. Development of 2.00 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.10 0.00 0.00 a Satellite for SAARC Countries Total 1262.00 1121.60 1121.09 796.10 1466.80 1346.71 518.56 * *As on January, 2017 15.3 The Committee noted the reduction in the budgetary allocation under the head ‘INSAT Satellite Systems’ in BE 2017-18 in comparison to RE 2016-17 allocation and enquired about the reasons behind this reduction. The Department informed that an amount of Rs.1466.80 crore was allocated in RE 2016-17 under INSAT Operational Systems. One of the major components of this was towards procuring launch services for 2 communication satellites, viz., GSAT-17, GSAT-11 satellites with an allocation of Rs.995 crore. During 2017-18 timeframe, there is no requirement for procured launch services and hence there is a reduced requirement in BE 2017-18 under INSAT Satellite Systems. However, new approvals are in the process for the next generation communication satellites for which enhanced budget will be sought for their realisation and launch. 15.4 The Department also informed the Committee that the allocation made in BE 2017-18 would be adequate to meet the programmatic requirements planned for the year 2017-18 and the Department planned to utilise this allocation in the following manner:-  Realisation and launch of GSAT-17, GSAT-19 and GSAT-11 communication satellites, which will be launched during 1st half of 2017-18.  Approvals are being sought for new series of satellites, namely, GSAT-20, GSAT-22/23/24 for which enhanced budgetary requirements will be projected at RE stage.  Work on other ongoing missions, like, GSAT 6A and INSAT 3DS will be carried out and will be realised beyond 2017-18.  Progress in other missions like INSAT-3 series, INSAT-4 series and INSAT/GSAT follow-on missions. 15.5 The Committee notes the reasons furnished by the Department with regard to reduction in the budgetary allocation for INSAT Satellite Systems Programme in BE 2017-18. The Committee hopes that the Department would be able to utilise the funds earmarked for INSAT Satellite Systems Programme optimally and strive to realise the targets envisaged for the year 2017-18. 16. INDIAN INSTITUTE OF SPACE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (IIST) 16.1 Indian Institute of Space Science & Technology (IIST) is an autonomous body under the Department of Space with the primary objective of creating world class Institution in the area of advanced Space Science & Technology education and generating high quality human resources requirement of DOS/ISRO. The Institute has undergraduate, post-graduate and doctoral programme in the area of space science, technology and applications. 16.2 The following table presents the BE, RE allocations and actual expenditure (upto January, 2017) for the years 2015-16, 2016-17 and BE allocation for 2017-18 of IIST:- (Rs. in crore) 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017-18 BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals BE 151.00 76.50 65.65 73.00 96.50 46.00 100.00 16.3 As regards the allocation of Rs.100.00 crore to IIST in 2017-18 is concerned, the Department informed the Committee that the increased allocation of Rs.100.00 crore in BE 2017-18 against Rs.96.50 crore in RE 2016-17 is primarily towards completion of campus development work at the Institute. The allocation of Rs.100.00 crore in BE 2017- 18 is proposed to be utilised towards:  Completion of campus development work at the institute for which work has resumed.  Development of additional laboratories for Post Graduate programme.  Funding towards ISRO-IIST research projects. 16.4 The Committee also enquired about the details of the level of linkage between the Institute and Space Industry and the response thereon. It was informed by the Department that the Institute is developing and strengthening its linkages with space industry as well as related industries in general through the following mechanism:- (a) Involvement of industry in advisory capacity for curricula and evaluation; (b) Invited lectures by industry experts; (c) Industry participation in symposium organised and supported by the Institute; (d) Student visits and internship in industrial premises; (e) Contributing to research and development efforts of industry by participating as experts in their design review processes; (f) Request to industry to provide placement support to students; and (g) The institute is also exploring enhanced collaboration through joint research and consultancy and support for start-ups by alumni of IIST. 16.5 The Committee is constrained to note that against the budgetary allocation of Rs.96.50 crore in RE 2016-17, the Department has managed to spend only Rs.46.00 crore upto January, 2017 which is not even 50 per cent of the budgetary allocation provided for the Institution. There was underutilisation of funds in 2015-16 too. The Committee takes serious note of the underutilisation of the budgetary allocation by the Institution in the years 2015-16 and 2016-17. This gives rise to a feeling of inflated budgetary demands. The Committee, accordingly, recommends that IIST should revisit its financial approach and rationalise its demands and then take necessary corrective measures to ensure that the allocations are not underutilized as a matter of routine. The Department of Space should also monitor the utilization of funds by IIST and ensure that funds do not continue to be underutilised by IIST. 16.6 The Committee hopes that the Department would utilise the budgetary allocation of Rs.100.00 crore in BE 2017-18 optimally by exercising earnest financial prudence. 17. SEMI CONDUCTOR LABORATORY (SCL) 17.1 Semi Conductor Laboratory (SCL) is engaged in the Design, Development and Manufacture of Very Large Scale Integrated (VLSIs) devices and Board Level Products to meet the stringent quality requirement of strategic sectors. 17.2 The following table provides the BE, RE allocations and actual expenditure (upto January, 2017) for the years 2015-16, 2016-17 and BE allocation for 2017-18 under the head ‘Semi Conductor Laboratory’ as provided by the Department:- (Rs. in crore) 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017-18 BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals BE 179.4 194.00 210.36 278.37 259.87 119.48 210.00 4 17.3 The Committee notes that the Department had projected a requirement of Rs.506.14 crore for Semi-Conductor Laboratory (SCL) in BE 2017-18. However, the Department could manage to get only Rs.210.00 crore. The Department submitted that it will take up for additional funding requirements of the Laboratory at RE stage. The Department also informed the Committee that the allocation of Rs.210.00 crore in BE 2017-18 is proposed to be utilised towards:-  Substantial funds will be utilised towards running cost and maintenance of the facilities, including contracts and salary components.  Augmentation of VLSI fabrication facility with additional tools such as FSI wet station, front to back overlay measurement tools, Mask Aligners, mixed signal VLSI Testers etc.  Procurement of spares and back-up parts, payment of comprehensive maintenance and process support charges for Fab lines etc. 17.4 The Committee notes that Semi-Conductor Laboratory (SCL) could utilise only Rs.119.48 crore in 2016-17 (upto January 2017) out of the reduced RE allocation of RS.259.87 crore, which is not even 50 per cent of the RE allocation. This effectively means that Rs.140.39 crore is left to be spent in the remaining less than two months of the financial year. The Committee feels that if Department had proper planning and periodic evaluation mechanism in place, such underutilisation of allocated funds could have been avoided. The Committee, accordingly, recommends the Department to devise a robust internal financial monitoring system to check underutilisation of funds and take corrective measures to ensure that the allocation made is utilised judiciously and fully. 18. NORTH EASTERN - SPACE APPLICATIONS CENTRE (NE-SAC), SHILLONG 18.1 The Committee notes that NE-SAC, set up as an autonomous society jointly with North Eastern Council, is supporting the North Eastern region by providing information on natural resources utilization and monitoring, infrastructure planning and interactive training using space technology inputs of remote sensing and satellite communication. 18.2 The following table gives the BE, RE allocations and actual expenditure (upto January, 2017) for the years 2015-16, 2016-17 and BE allocation for 2017-18 as provided by the Department:- (Rs. in crore) 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017-18 BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals BE 25.00 14.02 9.21 20.50 20.47 14.35 21.63 18.3 The Committee notes that an amount of Rs.21.63 crore has been allocated to NE- SAC in BE 2017-18 and the Department proposed to be utilised this allocation towards the following:  Flood Early Warning System (FLEWS), developed for forecasting flood in Brahmaputra and Barak valley in Assam, covers 42 river basins, is one of the successful models for disaster management.  Creation of technical infrastructure in the Centre to carry out different projects/programmes in the areas of Remote sensing & GIS Application Projects, Satcom Activities, Space Science & Atmospheric Studies and Disaster Management  Grant-in-aid for general maintenance and upkeeping of facilities  Payment of Salaries to employees. 18.4 The Committee is not happy with the trend of underutilisation of funds by NE-SAC. It is evident from the data furnished by the Department that NE-SAC failed to utilise the budgetary allocation of Rs.14.02 crore in the year 2015-16 fully and could only spent Rs.9.21 crore in the year 2015-16 which was just 65.69 per cent of the total allocation. The recurrence of the underutilisation also gets reflected in the figures furnished by the Department with regard to the actual expenditure of Rs.14.35 crore (upto January, 2017) for the year 2016-17. 18.5 The Committee expresses its discontent over the failure of NE-SAC to utilise the budgetary allocation fully. The data indicates that underutilisation has become a characteristic of NE-SAC. The Committee, thus, recommends that the Department should take the desired corrective actions to keep a strong check and balance over the methodology being opted by NE-SAC for utilising the budgetary allocation. 18.6 The Committee hopes that the Department would monitor the budget utilization of NE-SAC in 2017-18 and hopes that the targets set by NE-SAC for the year 2017-18 are realised within the stipulated time as envisioned by NE-SAC. 18.7 The Committee during its study visit to NE-SAC during October, 2016 visited Atmospheric Science Laboratory of NE-SAC on 25th October, 2016 and interacted with the representatives of the Department of Space and NE-SAC on the functioning, activities, achievements, etc. of the NE-SAC. The Committee observed that the Department of Space provides the required financial support to NE-SAC and is fully supported for all its activities. The Committee desired to know inter alia about the major activities undertaken by the Centre during the last three years to which it was informed that the Centre has provided important services and carried out various projects covering natural resources management, infrastructure planning, health, education, satellite communications, disaster management support and atmospheric science. The Committee was also informed about the various activities undertaken by the Centre which are as follows:- Remote Sensing and GIS Applications:- (i) Agriculture and soils Generation of crop production forecasts, soil and land capability mapping, site suitability for cash crops, tea area development, sericulture development for 41 districts in this region. (ii) Forestry and ecology Forest working plan preparation, mapping of medicinal and aromatic plants, wildlife habitat mapping and corridor identification. (iii) Land resources Mapping of land use, land cover, wasteland, land degradation and wetland for change detections. (iv) Water resources Silt assessment in important hydro-electric plants, micro-watershed delineation and prioritization for developmental activities and water balance studies. (v) Geology Geomorphology and lineament studies, ground water prospect mapping and mineral mapping. (vi) Infrastructure development National Urban Information System (NUIS) for selected cities, identification of border trade points for international cooperation, and road realignment planning. (vii) Information systems North Eastern District Resources Plan (NEDRP) programme, Space Based Information Kiosk (SBIK), Sericulture Information Linkages and Knowledge System (SILKS) and Japanese Encephalitis Early Warning System (JEWS). (viii) Coordination of activities The centre coordinates with the State Remote Sensing Application Centres of NER for implementation of major national and regional programmes. Satellite Communication:- (i) Satellite based connectivity Telemedicine (25 nodes commissioned), tele-education (321Satellite Interactive Terminal (SIT) set up in the region) and communication support for disaster management in the region. (ii) Pilot Network An Integrated Service Pilot Network is being set up by connecting a remote village named Umsaw in Meghalaya with the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). (iii) IRNSS Ground segment An Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) Ground segment has been commissioned at NESAC. Research on Atmospheric Science:- (i) Regional facility The centre has set up a regional facility to conduct research on improving weather forecast, characterization of aerosol and greenhouse gases, atmospheric boundary layer dynamics and to study their impact on regional weather and climate. (ii) Ground based network To improve the surface observations, ISRO, through NESAC has established a network of 118 Automatic Weather Stations across NER and one S-band Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) at Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya which would improve flood early warning, thunderstorm and hailstorm nowcasting and other applications. Supporting Disaster Management (i) FLEWS support North Eastern Regional node for Disaster Risk Reduction As an initiative of DOS, North Eastern Regional node for Disaster Risk Reduction (NER-DRR) at NESAC has been setup to provide single window delivery of all space based disaster management support viz. Floods, Forest Fire, Thunderstorms, Landslides, Drought, Earthquakes and Health disaster. 18.8 The Committee appreciates the activities undertaken by the Centre for the overall growth of our North Eastern Region (NER) with the help of its expertise in space technologies. The Committee during its study visit to NE-SAC observed that space technologies could be used in tackling vector borne diseases like dengue and Chikungunya by right kind of advices to the locals for better protection. The Committee, therefore, feels that in order to bring better awareness on even disease warning etc., NE-SAC can play an important role by effective use of its satellite based communication network. 18.9 The Committee is of the opinion that NER is a challenging area to work due to the inherent complexity and topography of the Region making it all the more important and crucial to establish backward and forward linkages at ground level for effective implementation of the space technology inputs in the Region. The Committee believes that more interaction with the stakeholders on the issue of disaster management in the Region can further enable the Centre to have better co- ordination with them. The Committee also feels that the Centre should also impress upon the State Governments of the Region for effective use of the information being generated by the Centre. 19. PHYSICAL RESEARCH LABORATORY (PRL), AHMEDABAD 19.1 PRL is involved in carrying out research work in the areas of Theoretical Physics, Astronomy, Space & Atmospheric Sciences and Planetary & Geo-Sciences and also responsible for the administration of Udaipur Solar observatory. 19.2 The following table presents the BE, RE allocations and actual expenditure (upto January, 2017) for the years 2015-16, 2016-17 and BE allocation for 2017-18 as provided by the Department:- (Rs. in crore) 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017- 18 BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals BE 141.00 124.26 143.26 132.20 151.00 116.20 180.00 19.3 The Committee notes that in BE 2017-18, an amount of Rs.180.00 crore has been earmarked for the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) which is Rs.29.00 crore higher than the allocation made in RE 2016-17. Explaining the reasons for the upward allocation in BE 2017-18, the Department informed the Committee that the allocation of Rs.180.00 crore has been allocated to PRL under three categories namely GIA-General (Rs.60.00 crore), Grants for creation of Capital Assets (Rs.60.58 crore) & Grant-in-Aid Salaries (Rs.59.42 crore). It was submitted that the additional amount of Rs.29.00 crore in BE 2017-18 is towards Grant-in-Aid General (Rs.19.00 crore) & Grant-in-Aid Salaries (Rs.16.42 crore) while there had been a reduction in allocation of funds towards Grants for creation of Capital Assets (Rs.6.42 crore) with respect to RE 2016-17. 19.4 The Committee feels that creation of capital assets plays a very important role in the overall performance of any system. However, reduction in allocation of funds towards creation of capital assets is a matter of concern. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Department should sensitise the concerned Ministry about the importance of capital assets in the overall performance of the Laboratory and should seek higher allocation at RE stage so that no hindrance is caused for want of adequate funds for the purpose. 19.5 The Committee further notes the allocation of Rs.180.00 crore in BE 2017-18 to PRL is proposed to be utilised towards the following:-  Creation of technical facility in the Laboratory including work towards setting up a 2.5m optical telescope and related facilities; a Planetary Remote Sensing Experimental Facility (in vis-NIR and Thermal-IR wavelengths) etc.  Carrying out research work in the areas of Theoretical Physics, Astronomy, Space & Atmospheric Sciences and Planetary & Geo-Sciences  Grant-in-aid general for maintenance and upkeeping of facilities  Payment of Salaries to employees 19.6 The Committee visited Udaipur in June, 2016 and held discussion with the representatives of Department of Space and Udaipur Solar Observatory on the functioning of Udaipur Solar Observatory. The Committee visited Udaipur Solar Observatory on 29th June, 2016. The Committee observed that availability of sophisticated and modern telescopes at the Observatory was helping in development of Solar Physics in the country. The Committee desired to know about the solar research work carried out by Udaipur Solar Observatory. wdaw bwbeseraauIwaa awb d w ubu saw tIthe effect of mass ejections from the sun and declining solar magnetic fields could have tremendous societal and financial impact. Understanding global warming and related issues of pollution and black carbon also had enormous societal and financial implications which were one of the major thrust areas of research in Physical Research Laboratory. 19.7 The Committee further inter alia enquired about the constraints faced by PRL in meeting Chinese challenge in space and also where India’s Space Programme stood as compared to the countries like the US, Russia and . Responding to the query, the Committee was informed that that the constraints faced for attaining advancement in Space technology were the lack of sufficient industrial capacity in India, reluctance of private industries to support Space Mission due to lack of profit, and importance given to remote sensing satellites over communication satellites. The Committee was apprised that engineering industries in India were inadequate to realise the most complex launch vehicle systems as per the expectations. It was submitted that even for making five launches per year, there was a lot of difficulty as only three-four industries like Larsen & Tourbo and Godrej, etc. were there to supply components, whereas in China, Engineering industries flourished like anything and their growth was very high. Of late Indian industries started developing resources and facilities and the Department of Space was encouraging them by providing funding. Some industries had been brought up to the level of supporting Space programmes as per expectations of the Department of Space and in the next four to five years the Department of Space was hopeful that things would improve to a great extent. The Committee was also apprised about the financial constraints faced by the PRL. It was submitted that the current budget provided to Physical Research laboratory was not sufficient to grow up to its full scope and potential as a research and academic Institution. It was emphasised that to remain relevant in competitive global research, it was essential to procure modern instruments and set-up and maintain the latest analytical facilities. Higher allocation was also requested so thatw latest analytical and computational facilities can be set up and maintained, young scientists and engineers can be recruited, large infrastructure could be developed to accommodate more research scholars and staff and lastly ambitious research programmes could be conceived, formulated and implemented. 19.8 The Committee also visited Mount Abu Infrared Observatory (MIRO) on 30th June, 2016 and held discussion with the representatives of the Department of Space and MIRO. The Committee noted that Mount Abu Infrared Observatory (MIRO) was the first major facility in India, specifically designed for ground based infrared observations of celestial objects and that its location adjacent to the Gurushikhar, which was the highest peak in the whole of Central India with a low amount of perceptible water vapour, was highly suited for the infrared telescope observations. The Committee interacted with concerned scientists and learnt in detail how observations were made in the Infrared region.wwThe Committee was also apprised about the ongoing activities, initiatives, major infrastructure in the Observatory and various research activities undertaken by the Astronomy and Division, PRL. 19.9 During its study visit to Ahmedabad in January, 2017, the Committee visited Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) on 16th January, 2017. The Committee visited three PRL Laboratories, namely (i) Photonic Science Laboratory; (ii) Accelerator Mass Spectrometer Laboratory; and (iii) Payload laboratory. (i) Photonic Science Laboratory: The Committee noted that the main research activity at this facility includes studying the effects of structured laser beams with nonlinear media and use of such structured beams for quantum optics experiments. This research is required because only few practical lasers are available with limited wavelength coverage whereas there is huge demand for diverse applications. Different applications require lasers at different wavelengths. Laser , photochemistry reaction dynamics, material processing, information technology, and medical diagnostics are some of the main applications of such research. (ii) Accelerator Mass Spectrometer (AMS) Laboratory: The Committee observed that the main research is carried out for studies on the application of cosmogenic radioisotopes (C-14, AI-26 and Be-10) to Earth, Oceanographic, and Atmospheric and Planetary sciences. The equipment named MeV Accelerator Mass Spectrometer (AMS) has been procured and installed in November 2016 by PRL as part of the studies. During the AMS laboratory visit, a brief presentation on AMS and its various applications was made followed by demonstration of the AMS and various specimens being used for past climatic studies. (iii) Payload Laboratory: The Committee learnt that the main research activity of this lab comprises of developing scientific instruments for the upcoming planetary and space missions such as Lunar & Solar Missions. The Committee was informed that two instruments are being developed for the Lunar Mission like Chandrayaan-2 Mission namely the Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) onboard the Chandrayaan-2 Rover and the Solar X-ray Monitor (XSM) onboard the Orbiter. Also Aditya Solar Wind Particle Experiment (ASPEX) payload for Aditya-L1 mission for first dedicatd Indian Solar Mission is also being developed. 19.10 The Committee expresses satisfaction on the activities carried out by the Udaipur Solar Observatory, Mount Abu Infrared Observatory and Physical Research Laboratory. The Committee hopes that budget allocation provided to PRL would be enhanced sufficiently to let it grow upto its full scope and potential as a research and academic Institution. 20. SPACE APPLICATION CENTRE (SAC), AHMEDABAD: 20.1 After the visit of PRL Labs, the Committee also visited the Space Application Centre (SAC) on 16th January, 2017 where the Committee visited the three Laboratories viz., (i) Microwave Remote Sensors Area Lab (MRSA Lab); (ii) Communications Systems Lab (CSL); and (iii) Planetary Simulation & Immersive Visualisation System Lab (PLASIV Lab). (i) Microwave Remote Sensors Area Lab (MRSA Lab): The Committee was apprised about the main activity of MRSA Lab which is development of Radar Sensors Payloads in Microwave frequencies for imaging and radiometric applications. During the visit of Microwave Remote Sensing Area Lab (MRSA), presentation was made before the Committee and it was informed about the work carried out related to various ongoing missions including Radar Imaging Satellite-II, Temperature and Humidity Sounder, Synthetic Aperture Radar & Altimeter for Chandrayaan-II, Scatterrometer for Oceansat-3, X-band MiniSar, NISAR (NASA-ISRO SAR). The Committee was also briefed about few critical technologies involved in realization of such systems like Onboard Controllers 1.1 ASIC which is fabricated on 0.18 Micrometer CMOS Technology at SCL Chandigarh, Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits, 250 W S Band GaN Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPA) etc. (ii) Communications Systems Lab (CSL): The Committee was informed that the main activity of CSL Lab is integration and check out of Communications & Navigation Payloads. A presentation on GSAT-11 South Panel and North Panel was made before the Committee. The Committee was intimated that by developing and using indigenous components, ICs, Chips, Passive Filter & Multiplexer and Multi Beam Feed Cluster Antenna, etc. ISRO is saving large amount of foreign exchange. This is the largest communications payload ISRO has developed so far. (iii) Planetary Simulation and Immersive Visualization Lab (PLASIV) Lab): The Committee was informed that the main activity of PLASIV Lab is to simulate and visualize satellite images on an active projection screen of 12000x3000 pixels on 9.2 x 2.2 meter curve screen. During the Committee's visit, a fly-through of the Tehri Dam, Bhagirathi and Alkananda River, merging at Devprayag to form Ganga River flowing through the Shivpuri in the Range of Himalayas at Rishikesh was demonstrated. The fly-through was generated using Resourcesat-2 LISS-4 Image draped with a resolution of 6 m draped over terrain generated from CARTOSAT DEM. 20.2 The Committee enquired to know as to how the images of paddy cultivation are read. Responding to the query, it was informed that the back-scattered signals from the crop show in the image in the form of intensity and phase, from which growth of the crop can be estimated. It was brought to the notice of the Committee that RISAT-1 images of the region of interest are taken every 25 days which coincide with different stages of paddy cultivation: (i) field preparation and puddling; (ii) tillering stage; (iii) pre-flowering stage; and (iv) grown crop. This way, the growing profile of crop in the field is monitored for complete three months starting from field preparation stage to ripening stage by measuring the increase in backscatter which is quantified to estimate acreage. The Committee also desired to know as to what is required for agricultural monitoring and what information has been achieved from it. In response, it was informed that space based high resolution data with adequate temporal resolution is required for crop growth monitoring and area estimation. It was submitted that during Kharif season, microwave data from RISAT-1 is required as optical data faces cloud cover problem. The Committee was apprised that currently, space based remote sensing operational forecasts are provided form eight major crops of India in every season. 20.3 On remote sensing applications, the Committee observed that host of application and research being pursued in the Earth, Ocean, Atmosphere, Planetary Sciences and Applications Area (EPSA). The Committee noted that EPSA is primarily responsible for carrying out research and demonstrating potentials of satellite data in Earth and Planetary Sciences in particular application for societal benefits along with relevant Ministries/Central/State Government Departments and Academic Institutes in the country. Major work component includes developing methods for inventory, monitoring and management of national natural resources for sustainable development, developing algorithms/models for weather prediction and early warning of disasters, imparting training/capacity building to various user Departments, sharing data as well showcasing by developing and updating SAC Web Portals such as MOSDAC (Meteorological and Oceanographic Satellite Data Archival Centre) and VEDAS (Visualisation of Earth Observation Data and Archival System) for wider dissemination and usage. The Committee also observed that utilisation of satellite data for societal benefit being a prime objective of the research, the experimental weather forecast using satellite data assimilation is being done at various temporal scales. The Committee was also informed that regular monitoring of snow and glacier over the Himalayan region is being done by SAC using space-borne sensors. 20.4 The Committee enquired about the monitoring of desertification/land degradation to which it was informed that SAC monitors inventory as well changes in the status of desertification/land degradation for the entire country at regular intervals and results in the form of Atlas as well geospatial date are being provided to the Ministry of Environment, Forest & , Government of India. The Committee also desired to know about the monitoring of air pollution in the country. Responding to the query, it was submitted that SAC has also initiated monitoring air pollution over Indian landmass using satellite data and the information is being provided to State Pollution Control Boards. 20.5 The Committee observes that the Space Applications Center (SAC) is a major research and development centre of ISRO and has played a key role in development in the field of Space Technologies. The Committee appreciates the work done by SAC in the field of agriculture, climatic change study/monitoring, biological atmosphere, etc which impact our citizens across the country. 20.6 The Committee hopes that the Department would not only continue its efforts but also further strengthen its research work in the areas of Theoretical Physics, Astronomy, Space & Atmospheric Sciences and Planetary & Geo-Sciences with the help of increased allocation in BE 2017-18 and strive to realise the targets envisaged for the year 2017-18. 21. ISRO SATELLITE CENTRE (ISAC), BENGALURU 21.1 During its study visit to Bengaluru in August 2016, the Committee visited the ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC) and held discussion with the concerned authorities on its functioning on the 30th August 2016. At ISRO Satellite Centre, the Committee visited ISRO Satellite Integration and Testing Establishment (ISITE). The Committee visited the facilities at ISITE i.e. Clean room, CATVAC, CATVIB, CATF etc. and was informed of the activities and functioning of these facilities. 21.2 During the discussions, a presentation on Indian Space Programme was made by the Secretary, Department of Space. Thereafter, a technical presentation was made on overview of ISRO Satellite Centre by Director, ISAC. A short video on Indian Space Programme was also shown to the Committee. The Committee then desired to know the activities and achievements of ISAC. The Committee was informed that ISAC is the lead centre for design, development & integration of Communication, Remote sensing, scientific and small satellites.w Cutting edge technologies meeting various mission requirements are developed in the Centre keeping ISAC in the forefront of spacecraft technology frontiers.wwISAC had realized 79 spacecrafts, out of which, 32 spacecrafts are in operation and providing valuable services for various applications in the area of communication, , remote sensing and navigation. 21.3 The Committee then desired to know about the role and activities being undertaken at ISRO Satellite Integration and Testing Establishment (ISITE). The Committee was informed that established in 2006, ISITE is a world class Assembly, Integration & Test complex with all spacecraft integration and test facilities under one roof. The complex is fully laid out and equipped with facilities for the complete assembly and test sequence that can enable rolling out of a flight worthy spacecraft from the stage of a bare structure. It is replete with Integration and environmental test facilities under one roof, namely, a large clean room for spacecraft assembly, integration & testing, a compact antenna test facility specific to communication satellites and antenna systems, a comprehensive Assembly and Test thermo vacuum chamber, vibration facility acoustic test facility. Establishments and facilties for building satellites by external vendors are also housed here. However, in order to meet the growing demands of satellites, new facilities like new clean room, high density interconnect facility, solar panel and battery fabrication facilities are coming up in Space Park at ISITE. These upcoming facilities are planned to be operated with industry support. 21.4 As regards the achievements, the Committee was informed that with launch of IRNSS 1E, 1F and 1G, they had successfully completed IRNSS space segment. Cartosat- 2S was also successfully launched onboard PSLV.wwGSAT-18, INSAT-3DR were ready for launch. SCATSAT-1 was ready for shipment to launch base at SHAR while Resorucesat-2A was in final stages of integration. Further, spacecraft building activities for GSAT-17, GSAT-9, GSAT-11, GSAT-19, Cartosat-2D/2E, Chandrayaan-2, EMISAT, etc were in progress.wfauwh eeraauuw bwrtT euIwaa awTuture projects like Aditya-L1, Docking experiments, high through put communication satellites, Cartosat-3, RISAT-2, NISAR and many more projects were also in pipeline.w Many technology development programmes in various technology domains that were required for future projects were being pursued in the Centre.wISAC was gearing up to build more than 10 satellites per year to meet the national demands from various users. 21.5 The Committee observes that ISAC is a premier institution of the country for design, development & integration of Communication, Remote sensing, scientific and small satellites. The Committee commends the Department of Space and ISAC for having successfully contributed towards research & development in the area of advanced state of art technologies, total management of all satellite missions, creation of vibrant space industry for realization of space systems, technology transfer, academia interface etc. and having made the country proud of its achievements. 22. INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATION 22.1 The Committee notes that under International Co-operation head, provision has been included for the expenses of International Co-operation and Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in Asia and the Pacific (CSSTE-AP). 22.2 The following table presents the BE, RE allocations and actual expenditure (upto January, 2017), for the years 2015-16, 2016-17 and BE allocation for 2017-18 as provided by the Department:- (Rs. in crore) Name of 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017-18 Organisation/Schem e BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals BE International 4.10 4.10 4.08 4.00 2.00 0.00 4.40 Co-Operation 22.3 The Committee is surprised to note that the Department has not spent even a single penny from the budgetary allocation of R.2.00 crore (RE) during 2016-17 meant for the purpose of International Co-operation. The Committee is at a loss to figure out as to why the Department could not utilise a single penny upto January, 2017 on account of International Co-operation. The Committee, however, hopes that the funds earmarked under this head for the year 2017-18 will be utilised optimally. 23. FINANCIAL FLEXEBILITY OF SCIENTIFIC MINISTRY/ DEPARTMENT: 23.1 The Committee is of the opinion that the Government while allocating funds in favour of our scientific Departments/Ministries should also consider invariably that these scientific agencies of the Government deserve a lot more financial support of the Government to not only sustain their growth but also to venture into new scientific assignments without having the fear of failure. The Committee strongly feels that endeavours of our scientific agencies must be supported financially by the Government wholeheartedly so as to enable them to carry out their mandate efficiently and for optimal utilisation of their capacities in the direction of scientific advancement in the country. 23.2 During the meeting held on 16th February, 2017, attention of the Committee was drawn towards the audit paras contained in the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG) reports pertaining to the Department of Space. The Committee, on perusal of the audit paras of C&AG, wonders whether audit paras on the orgnisations falling under 'Strategic Sector' should be placed in public domain. Therefore, the Committee urges the Government to take up the matter with CA&G and impress upon them to avoid it otherwise the country might lose competitive advantage over other countries. Further, the Committee is of the view that it will be in the fitness of things if our scientific agencies are given a bit more financial flexibility in their financial scheme of things so as to enable them to carry out their mandate smoothly and efficiently, and auditors should be sensitised in this context. OUTREACH PROGRAMME OF THE DEPARTMENT 24. The Committee during its meeting held on 16th February, 2017 had observed that people of the country including elected representatives are not fully aware of the excellent work being done by the Department of Space or much about the Department itself which may be beneficial for a very big segment of the society like farmers, fishermen, students, research scholars, industries, etc. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Department should chalk out an interactive comprehensive awareness programme with a calendar of events using social media platforms, radio, television etc. meant for students and general public but most importantly for all the elected representatives right from district level i.e. Members of Zila Panchayats, Legislative Assemblies and Councils and Members of Parliament. The Committee strongly feels that elected representatives can play an important role in making their constituents aware of scientific development and ultimately developing scientific temperament in the public at large.