By Kavita Mistry 
ISRO Chairman V Narayanan revealed that 10 satellites are working round-the-clock for India’s strategic defense. These satellites help monitor the country’s 7000-kilometer-long coastline and play a vital role in ensuring national safety. Speaking at the 5th convocation of Central Agricultural University, he stressed the need for satellite and drone technologies in modern-day defense systems.
ISRO’s Impact Beyond Defense
Narayanan highlighted that ISRO satellites contribute significantly to agriculture, education, telemedicine, TV broadcasts, weather forecasting, and food security. The space agency is not limited to defense but also enhances everyday life and public services across sectors. ISRO’s technology has become integral to India’s development strategy.
India’s Global Space Achievements
India leads in nine space-related domains globally. A major milestone came when Chandrayaan-1 discovered water molecules on the Moon, making India the first to achieve this feat. ISRO has also launched 433 satellites for 34 nations, becoming a dependable launch partner worldwide.
Collaborations with G-20 Nations
India has designed and built satellites for G-20 nations, especially for climate change monitoring. Narayanan shared that India and the US are jointly developing the world’s most advanced and expensive earth-imaging satellite, which will be launched from India.
From Lagging to Leading
The ISRO Chairman recalled that India had no satellite technology until 1975 and lagged behind developed nations by 70 years. Today, India produces over 250 million tons of food and exports globally—compared to just 54 million tons in the 1950s and 60s when it relied on food imports. India also leads in electricity generation and milk production.
Improved Life and Outreach to Northeast
India’s development has increased life expectancy from 32 to 72 years, with major drops in child and maternal mortality rates. To inspire future scientists, 100 students from each northeastern state will get to visit ISRO in Bengaluru. The agency also supports regional development projects in the northeast.
Conclusion
ISRO has transformed from a modest space agency into a global player supporting both national security and socio-economic progress, with future-focused projects and international collaborations on the horizon.