GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 6th Jan. The Cabinet has approved the “PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)” scheme of the Ministry of Earth Sciences. The scheme will be implemented from 2021-26 with a total cost of Rs. 4,797 crore.
It includes five sub-schemes: “Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services (ACROSS)”, “Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources and Technology (O-SMART)”, “Polar Science and Cryosphere Research (PACER)”, “Seismology and Geosciences (SAGE)”, and “Research, Education, Training and Outreach (REACHOUT)”.
The main objectives of the PRITHVI scheme are:
– Enhancing and maintaining long-term observations of the atmosphere, ocean, geosphere, cryosphere, and solid earth to monitor the Earth System and its changes.
– Developing modeling systems to understand and predict weather, ocean, and climate hazards, as well as the science of climate change.
– Developing technology for the exploration and sustainable utilization of oceanic resources for societal applications.
– Translating knowledge and insights from Earth systems science into services that benefit society, the environment, and the economy.
The Ministry of Earth Sciences is responsible for providing services related to weather, climate, ocean and coastal state, hydrology, seismology, and natural hazards. They also explore and harness marine resources in a sustainable manner and conduct research in the Arctic, Antarctic, and Himalayas. These services are used by various agencies and state governments to save lives and minimize damage from natural disasters.
The Ministry carries out its research and operational activities through ten institutes, including the India Meteorological Department, National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting, and National Centre for Seismology.
The PRITHVI scheme will address all components of the Earth system and improve understanding in Earth System Sciences. It will also promote integrated multi-disciplinary research and innovative programs across different institutes under the Ministry.
These efforts will help address challenges in weather and climate, oceanography, cryosphere, seismology, and resource exploration in a sustainable manner.
