NavIC Navigation System

Source: IE  

Why in News?  

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that the atomic clock onboard the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS)-1F satellite of India’s regional navigation system stopped functioning. 

• This comes amid other technical setbacks in India’s navigation constellation, including the NVS-02 satellite’s failure to reach its final orbit, raising concerns about the reliability of NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation). 

What is IRNSS or NavIC? 

• About: The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), operationally known as Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC), is India's indigenous satellite navigation system. 
  • It was designed to provide accurate positioning information to users in India and up to 1500 km beyond its borders, which constitutes the Primary Service Area.  
  • In addition, an Extended Service Area covers the region between the primary area and the rectangle bounded by 30° South to 50° North latitude and 30° East to 130° East longitude. 
• Need for NavIC: The project was initiated to ensure strategic autonomy in navigation services. 
  • During the 1999 Kargil conflict, the US denied India access to GPS data, highlighting the risks of relying on foreign systems. To address this vulnerability, India approved the NavIC project in 2006. 
• NavIC Services:  
  • Standard Positioning Service (SPS) is available to all civilian users and offers positioning information for general navigation purposes.  
  • Restricted Service (RS) is an encrypted service available only to authorised users, primarily for strategic and defence applications.  
    • The system is designed to deliver position accuracy better than 20 metres within the primary service area. 
• Key Features: NavIC’s Standard Positioning Service provides accuracy of about 5–10 metres across India. 
  • Accuracy around 20 metres is expected in regions up to 1,500 km beyond India. 
  • Unlike GPS, NavIC uses dual frequencies (L and S bands), allowing better correction of atmospheric errors and potentially higher accuracy.  
    • Works better than global systems in difficult terrains such as valleys, forests, and urban areas where GPS signals may weaken. 
• Applications of NavIC: Supports terrestrial, aerial, and marine navigation, disaster management, and vehicle tracking and fleet management. 
  • Enables integration with mobile phones and smart devices, provides precise timing services, and supports mapping, geodetic data collection, and navigation assistance for drivers, hikers, and travellers. 
• NavIC Satellite Constellation Performance:  The NavIC constellation has been built through a series of satellite launches using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).  
  • First Generation (IRNSS Series): The first generation of NavIC satellites includes the IRNSS-1 series, launched between 2013 and 2018. 
    • Key satellites include IRNSS-1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, and the replacement satellite IRNSS-1I. 
    • IRNSS-1H (2017), intended to replace IRNSS-1A, failed to reach orbit due to heat shield separation failure. 
    • The IRNSS-1I was launched in 2018 as a replacement after the 2017 IRNSS-1H mission failed. 
    • Several satellites in this series have experienced atomic clock failures or are nearing the end of their mission life, affecting navigation services. 
  • Second Generation (NVS Series): The NVS series represents the second generation of NavIC satellites, developed to improve reliability and expand capabilities. 
    • It includes NVS-01, NVS-02, and the planned  (NVS-03, NVS-04, and NVS-05). 
    • NVS-01 (2023) is operational and hosts an indigenously developed rubidium (atomic) clock and L1 band signals. 
    • NVS-02 (2025) faced issues in reaching its final operational orbit due to an onboard technical problem. 
    • The newer satellites boast a mission life of 12 years, an upgrade from the 10-year lifespan of the previous generation. 
    • In addition to the L5 and S frequency signals, the new satellites transmit in a third frequency, L1. 
      • The L1 frequency improves interoperability with other global positioning systems like GPS and allows NavIC data to be used in low-power wearable devices, such as smartwatches. 
  • Active Satellites: Following the loss of the IRNSS-1F's atomic clock, only four satellites are currently capable of providing positioning data: IRNSS-1B, 1C, 1I, and the new-generation NVS-01. 
• Technological Developments in NavIC: 
  • Indigenous Atomic Clocks: ISRO developed Indian rubidium atomic clocks to reduce dependence on imported frequency standards.  These clocks will power the next generation of satellites (NVS series). 
  • NavIC-Compatible Chips: Qualcomm chipsets began supporting NavIC signals in 2020. 
    • Future devices will support L1 band signals, improving compatibility with smartphones and IoT devices. 
  • Indigenous Microprocessor: The AJIT microprocessor (the first ever microprocessor to be conceptualised, designed, developed and manufactured in India), developed by IIT Bombay, is planned for integration into NavIC receivers. 
• Policy and Regulatory Developments: NavIC-based vehicle tracking systems became mandatory for commercial vehicles in India in 2019. 
  • In 2019, the US recognised NavIC as an allied navigation system under the National Defense Authorization Act, 2020. 
  • NavIC will also serve as the reference time provider for India’s National Physical Laboratory from 2025.

Other Countries Having Satellite Navigation Systems 

• Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) 
  • United States: Global Positioning System (GPS) 
  • Russia: GLONASS (GLObalnaya NAvigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema) 
  • European Union: Galileo 
  • China: BeiDou 
• Regional Navigation Systems 
  • India: NavIC (IRNSS) 
  • Japan: Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS), which augments GPS signals over Japan. 
• Key Differences in Satellite Constellations 
  • GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo: Operate with over 20 satellites in Medium Earth Orbit (~20,000 km). 
  • BeiDou: Uses over 40 satellites in a combination of Medium Earth Orbit and Geosynchronous Orbit (~35,000 km). 
  • NavIC and QZSS: Have fewer satellites and mainly operate in higher geosynchronous orbits, focusing on regional coverage rather than global navigation.

What is an Atomic Clock? 

• About: An atomic clock is an extremely precise timekeeping device that measures time using the natural vibration frequency of atoms (frequency is essentially the inverse of time).  
  • Unlike ordinary clocks that rely on mechanical movement or quartz crystals, atomic clocks use the stable energy transitions of atoms, making them the most accurate clocks ever created. 
• Working Principle: Atomic clocks work by measuring the specific frequency of microwaves required to cause electrons in an atom to change energy levels. 
  • This frequency is constant for each type of atom and acts as a natural reference for measuring time. 
• Accuracy: Atomic clocks are extraordinarily accurate and stable. Some advanced atomic clocks may lose or gain less than a second over millions of years, making them ideal for applications requiring extremely precise timing. 
• Use in Navigation: Atomic clocks are widely used in satellite navigation systems such as GPS and NavIC, where they measure the exact time taken by signals to travel between satellites and receivers to determine precise location. 
• Importance: Highly precise atomic clocks also help track spacecraft, calculate trajectories, and enable autonomous navigation for deep-space missions. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. What is NavIC?
NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) is India’sindigenous regional satellite navigation system that provides accurate positioning and timing services over India and up to 1500 km beyond its borders. 

2. Why was NavIC developed by India?
NavIC was developed to ensurestrategic autonomy in navigation services, especially after the US denied GPS data during the 1999 Kargil conflict. 

3. What are the two services provided by NavIC?
NavIC providesStandard Positioning Service (SPS) for civilian users and Restricted Service (RS), an encrypted navigation service for authorised users including the military. 

4. Why are atomic clocks important in navigation satellites?
Atomic clocks provideextremely precise timing signals, allowing satellites to measure signal travel time and determine accurate location and positioning. 

5. What are the key improvements in the second-generation NavIC satellites (NVS series)?
The NVS satellites featureindigenous rubidium atomic clocks, longer mission life (12 years), and L1 frequency signals, improving accuracy and compatibility with global navigation systems.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Q.1 Which one of the following countries has its own Satellite Navigation System? (2023) 

a. Australia
b. Canada
c. Israel 
d. Japan 

Ans: d 

Q.2 With reference to the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), consider the following statements: (2018) 

1. IRNSS has three satellites in geostationary and four satellites in geosynchronous orbits. 
2. IRNSS covers entire India and about 5500 sq. Km beyond its borders. 
3. India will have its own satellite navigation system with full global coverage by the middle of 2019. 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

(a) 1 only 
(b) 1 and 2 only 
(c) 2 and 3 only 
(d) None 

Ans: (a) 

---

Mains

Q. Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed? How does it help in navigation? (2018)

US Investigates India and 59 Others Over ‘Forced Labour’

Source: TH 

The US has launched a trade investigation against India and 59 other economies under Section 301 of the Trade Act, 1974 to examine whether their supply chains include goods produced using forced labour.  

• The probe aims to address unfair trade advantages arising from lower production costs, which the US Trade Representative (USTR) argues harm American industries and workers. 
  • The US views forced labour in global supply chains as both a human rights violation and a national security issue. 
• Tariff Revival Strategy: The investigation is seen as a way to legally justify reimposing tariffs after the US Supreme Court struck down earlier reciprocal tariffs in 2026. 
• Global Scope: The probe targets 60 economies, including India, China, the European Union, UK, Japan, Australia, Canada, Russia, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. 
  • The investigation will examine products made using imported intermediate goods such as cotton and yarn in textiles, critical minerals used in solar panels and electronics, and palm fruit used in biofuels. 
• Impact on India: Although India prohibits forced labour under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, its export industries may face scrutiny because many rely on raw materials and components imported from China.  
  • Key sectors such as solar panels (using Chinese polysilicon), electronics (dependent on Chinese sub-assemblies), and textiles and garments (using imported fabrics) could be particularly vulnerable.  
  • Additionally, India is also facing a separate US investigation on “excess manufacturing capacity” in sectors like solar modules, petrochemicals, and steel. 
  • If the US finds violations, it may impose heavy tariffs or trade restrictions on imports from affected countries. 
    • Exporters may need to adopt strict traceability mechanisms to prove that products are free from forced labour.

Read more: India–US Trade Deal 2026 

India’s 1st Manuscript Mapping Drive

Source: TOI 

The Ministry of Culture has launched a first-of-its-kind three-month nationwide survey to map India’s manuscript heritage. 

• The exercise aims to curb intellectual piracy by digitising India’s vast manuscript heritage, which includes the world’s largest collection of about 1 crore manuscripts. 

Manuscript Mapping Survey 

• About: The survey will be conducted from the district level upwards to locate manuscripts across the country and create a consolidated national database. 
  • The collected data will be compiled into a national digital repository under the Gyan Bharatam Mission. 
• Objective: The initiative aims to preserve, digitise and promote India’s vast manuscript heritage, enhancing accessibility for research and safeguarding cultural knowledge. 
• Technology Use: Manuscripts from institutions, collections and individual custodians will be geotagged for conservation, preservation and digitisation needs. 
  • Gyan Bharatam app will be used by survey teams to upload details, with further standardised digitisation to make them widely accessible. 
• Policy Linkage: The initiative aligns with the New Delhi Declaration (Gyan Bharatam Conference) and supports the vision of showcasing India’s culture, literature and consciousness. 
• Implementation Framework: Survey will be conducted through state-level committees chaired by the Chief Secretary and district-level committees chaired by the District Magistrate.

Read more: Gyan Bharatam Mission 

60th Jnanpith Award

Source: TH 

Eminent Tamil lyricist and author R. Vairamuthu has been selected for the 60th Jnanpith Award, becoming only the 3rd Tamil writer to receive the prize and the 1st to be recognised for Tamil poetry. 

• He also won the Sahitya Akademi Award (2003) for his novel Kallikattu Ithikasam. He was also awarded the Padma Shri in 2003 and the Padma Bhushan in 2014. 
• The award had previously been conferred on Tamil writers Akilan (1975) and Jayakanthan (2002). 

Jnanpith Award 

• About: The Jnanpith Award, instituted in 1961 by the Bharatiya Jnanpith, is India's highest literary honour recognising exceptional lifetime contributions by authors.  
  • Often regarded as the "Nobel Prize of Indian literature," it highlights India's linguistic diversity and literary integrity.  
• Institutional Background: The award was established by industrialist Sahu Shanti Prasad Jain and his wife Rama Jain via the Bharatiya Jnanpith, a cultural organization set up in 1944. The first award was conferred in 1965 to G. Sankara Kurup (Malayalam).  
  • The 1st woman recipient was Ashapurna Devi (Bengali) in 1976, and the 1st English-language winner was Amitav Ghosh in 2018. 
• Eligibility and Scope: It is presented annually only to an Indian author for their "outstanding contribution towards literature." From 1965 to 1981, the award was given for a specific book/work. Since 1982, it has been awarded for an author’s lifetime contribution to Indian literature.  
  • It covers all 22 Eighth Schedule languages as well as English (included in 2013). No posthumous awards are given. 
• Prize and Symbolism: The recipient receives a cash prize of Rs 11 lakh, a citation, and a bronze statuette of Vagdevi (Saraswati), the goddess of knowledge. The award is often presented by the President of India. 
• Selection Process: A high-level committee (Pravara Parishad) of eminent scholars and litterateurs evaluates nominations based on creativity, vision, and impact on Indian literature. 

Read More: 58th Jnanpith Award 

Kharg Island–Fujairah Attacks

Source: TH 

Geopolitical escalation in West Asia has intensified after the US reportedly carried out bombing strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island, a crucial oil export hub, while Iran retaliated by striking oil facilities in Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

• Both locations are critical nodes in the global oil supply chain, and attacks threaten international shipping lanes and oil markets. 
• Kharg Island: 
  • Location: Kharg Island is a small Iranian island in the Persian Gulf, about 25 km off Iran’s southwestern coast. 
    • Kharg was once called the “orphan pearl of the Persian Gulf.”  Today, it is often referred to as the “forbidden island” because access is tightly controlled by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). 
  • Iran’s Main Oil Export Hub: The island became Iran’s primary export centre because it is connected by pipelines to major oil fields such as Ahvaz, Marun, and Gachsaran and has deep waters suitable for supertankers. 
    • About 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports pass through Kharg Island, with the terminal handling roughly 1.3–1.6 million barrels per day, and the ability to store around 30 million barrels. 
  • Historical Trade Centre: Kharg has been part of regional trade networks since the 10th century, serving pearl divers and traders moving between India and Basra (Iraq).  
    • It was later fortified by the Dutch in the 18th century and briefly occupied by the British in the 19th century. 

 

• Fujairah:  
  • Location: Fujairah is one of the seven emirates of the UAE, located on the Gulf of Oman. 
    • It is the only UAE emirate without a coastline on the Persian Gulf, giving it strategic importance for energy transport. 
    • The UAE is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the west and south, and Oman to the east and northeast. It also shares maritime borders in the Persian Gulf with Qatar and Iran. 
  • Bypassing the Strait of Hormuz: The Habshan–Fujairah pipeline allows UAE oil exports to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow and vulnerable maritime chokepoint. 
  • Global Energy Hub: The Port of Fujairah is among the largest oil storage facilities globally and the second-largest ship bunkering hub after Singapore. 

Read more: Conflict Zones in the US - Israel - Iran War 

Economic Stabilisation Fund

Source: BL 

The Lok Sabha approved the 2nd batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants (2025-26), and the Finance Minister introduced the Economic Stabilisation Fund (ESF), a Rs 1 lakh crore fiscal buffer aimed at boosting macroeconomic stability and economic resilience. 

• Under Article 115, Supplementary Demands for Grants are required when funds authorised by the Appropriation Act for a service prove insufficient. The President lays them before both the Houses of Parliament for approval before the financial year ends. 

Economic Stabilisation Fund 

• About: It is designed to act as a "financial shock absorber," protecting the Indian economy from global headwinds such as the West Asia conflict, oil price spikes and supply chain disruptions (e.g,  Strait of Hormuz blockade) without breaching fiscal deficit targets. 
• Funding Source: A net outgo of Rs 57,381.84 crore is sourced through supplementary demands, while the remainder comes from savings, recoveries, and higher receipts from various ministries. 
  • The fund will be placed under the reserve funds managed by the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance. 
• Fiscal Discipline: The government has emphasized that this allocation does not entail additional borrowing and will not impact the fiscal deficit target of 4.4% for 2025–26 (Revised Estimates). 
• Global Comparison: The ESF draws parallels to Sovereign Wealth Funds or Stabilisation Funds in other economies, such as Norway (for oil price fluctuations) and Chile (for copper price shocks).

Read More: Geoeconomic Fallout of the US-Israel-Iran Conflict on India