New Delhi: The Narendra Modi led Union cabinet today approved over-10,000 crore plan to give an impetus to ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark-III programmes.
The Cabinet also approved for funding of 30 PSLV operational flights under the programme. The PSLV programme is expected to meet the launch requirements of satellites for Earth Observation, navigation and space sciences and will also ensure the continuity of production by the Indian industry.
The Funds worth Rs. 6,131 crore includes the cost of 30 PSLV vehicles, essential facility augmentation, programme management and launch campaign. The cabinet also approved funding for the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark-III Continuation Programme (Phase-1), consisting of 10 GSLV (Mk-III) flights, at an estimated cost of Rs. 4,338 crore.
In an official statement, the government said that “The PSLV Continuation Programme (Phase 6) will meet the demand for launch of satellites at a frequency of up to eight launches per year, with maximum participation from the Indian industry. All operational flights would be completed during the period 2019-2024.”
The GSLV Mk-III Continuation Programme (Phase-1) of the ISRO is the first phase of operational flights that will enable the launch of four-tonne class of communication satellites. The operationalisation of GSLV Mk-III will make India self-reliant in launching four-tonne class of communication satellites, sustain and strengthen the space infrastructure and reduce the dependence on procured launches from foreign countries.
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