Starting with a modest beginning in 1963 primarily to carry out sounding rocket experiments in space science, the Indian Space Research Organization SRO) has focused its attention on using space technology for carrying out major identified national tasks on a totally self-reliant basis.
Self-reliance, accomplished with national applications of space technology is the main objectives of the Indian Space programme.
Main thrust areas are: Satellite communications for various national applications including the telecommunication, TV transmission and radio broadcasting,
i) Resources survey and management, environmental monitoring and meteorological services through remote sensing, and ii) Development of indigenous satellites and launch vehicles to achieve the above objects.
Organization and Research:
The Indian Space programme began in 1962 with the creation of Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR). 'He Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) came into being in 1969. For promoting a unified development and application of space science and technology^ for national development, Space Commission and Department of Space (DOS) were set up in 1972.
The main function of Space Commission is to frame policies which are implemented through Department of Science (DOS) and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is to achieve envisaged objectives.
DOS is the nodal agency and responsible for establishing National Natural Resources Management System (NNRMS) in collaboration with various central and State agencies. ISRO is responsible for planning, programme and management of research and development in the field of space science, technology and applications in our country.
It carries out all the developmental activities through various centers units: Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Trivandrum; ISRO Satellite Centre (ISAC), Bangalore, SHAr Centre at Sriharikota (Andhra Pradesh), Space Application Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad;