PRITHvi VIgyan Scheme

• 09 Jan 2024

For Prelims: PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI) Scheme, ACROSS Scheme, O-SMART Scheme, PACER

For Mains: Earth System Sciences, Modeling systems for understanding climate change science, Government Policies, Disaster Management

Source: PIB

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet recently approved the comprehensive scheme "PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)" by the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

• This initiative spans five sub-schemes, aiming to enhance Earth System Sciences and provide crucial services for societal, environmental, and economic well-being.
• The Cabinet also approved an agreement between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC) to jointly develop a “small satellite.”

Note

• India and Mauritius have a history of cooperation since the 1980s when ISRO established a ground station in Mauritius for tracking and telemetry support for ISRO’s launch vehicle and satellite missions.

What is the "PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)" Scheme?

• About:
  • It is an overarching scheme of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) for the period from 2021 to 2026.
  • It encompasses five ongoing sub-schemes, namely:
    • ACROSS: Atmosphere and Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services.
    • O-SMART: Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources and Technology.
    • PACER: Polar Science and Cryosphere Research.
    • SAGE: Seismology and Geosciences
      • The scheme includes six activities, including seismological monitoring and microzonation. SAGE aims to strengthen earthquake monitoring and research on the Earth's solid components.
    • REACHOUT: Research, Education, Training and Outreach.
  • PRITHVI scheme comprehensively addresses the five components of Earth System Sciences: atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, cryosphere, and biosphere.
    • This holistic approach aims to enhance understanding and deliver reliable services for the country.
• Objectives:
  • To augment and sustain long-term observations of the atmosphere, ocean, geosphere, cryosphere and solid earth to record the vital signs of the Earth System and change
  • Development of modelling systems for understanding and predicting weather, ocean and climate hazards and understanding the science of climate change.
  • Exploration of polar and high seas regions of the Earth towards discovery of new phenomena and resources;
  • Development of technology for exploration and sustainable harnessing of oceanic resources for societal applications.
  • Translation of knowledge and insights from Earth systems science into services for societal, environmental and economic benefit.
• Benefits for India:
  • PRITHVI provides advanced warning services for natural disasters like cyclones, floods, heatwaves, and earthquakes, facilitating prompt and effective disaster management.
    • Additionally, the scheme ensures precise weather forecasts for both land and oceans, enhancing safety and minimizing property damages in adverse weather conditions.
  • PRITHVI extends its reach to explore the three poles of the Earth; Arctic, Antarctic, and Himalayas facilitating valuable insights and knowledge about these regions.
  • The scheme encourages the development of technology for exploration and sustainable harnessing of oceanic resources, aligning with modern advancements in Earth Science.