PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI) Scheme
Context:
Recently, the Union Cabinet sanctioned the comprehensive scheme “PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)” by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, earmarked for execution from 2021 to 2026, with a total budget of Rs. 4797 crores.
Relevance:
GS-01, GS-02, GS-03 (Government Policies & Interventions, Physical Geography, Disaster Management)
Key highlights:
- PRITHVI is a scheme under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) that spans from 2021 to 2026 and integrates five ongoing sub-schemes namely:
- 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).
- Research, Education, Training and Outreach (REACHOUT).
- Within PRITHVI, activities such as seismological monitoring and microzonation that helps earthquake monitoring are conducted. It also enables researching the Earth’s solid components.
- Objective: To comprehensively address the components of Earth System Sciences which includes the atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, cryosphere, and biosphere.
- Key goals:
- Enhancing long-term observations of Earth’s systems.
- Developing modeling systems for weather prediction.
- Exploring polar and high seas regions.
- Translating scientific insights into societal services.
- Significance: It benefits India by providing advanced warning services for natural disasters like cyclones and floods, ensuring precise weather forecasts, and facilitating exploration of polar regions.
- The scheme also promotes the development of technology for sustainable harnessing of oceanic resources, aligning with modern advancements in Earth Science and contributing to societal, environmental, and economic benefits.
Facts for prelims:
- PACER scheme:
- Implemented By: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
- Aim: Focuses on polar and cryosphere research and to establish polar research and logistical facilities within the country.
- Objectives: Safeguarding India’s interests in the Polar Region, sustaining long-term scientific endeavors, coordinating annual expeditions, and maintaining research bases.
- O-SMART:
- Implemented By: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
- Aim: Stepping up ocean research and setting up early warning weather systems. It mostly provides necessary scientific and technological background required for implementing Blue Economy.
