The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, granted approval on Friday for the implementation of the “PRITHVI VIgyan (PRITHVI)” scheme, a strategic initiative aimed at deepening our comprehension of Earth and its vital indicators.
With an allocated budget of Rs 4,797 crore spanning from 2021 to 2026, this comprehensive program seeks to significantly elevate research, modeling, and service delivery in critical domains such as weather, climate, oceans, and polar regions.
The government clarified that PRITHVI is an acronym for “Promoting Research in Earth Systems Science, Technology, & Human Resource Development.” It encompasses five existing sub-schemes, namely ACROSS (Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services), focusing on long-term observations and advanced modeling systems for weather and climate predictions; O-SMART (Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources and Technology), targeting sustainable exploration and utilization of marine resources using cutting-edge technology; PACER (Polar Science and Cryosphere Research), aiming to explore Earth’s poles and glacial regions to deepen our understanding of global climate changes; SAGE (Seismology and Geosciences), seeking to strengthen earthquake monitoring and research on the Earth’s solid components; and REACHOUT (Research, Education, Training, and Outreach), fostering talent development and ensuring effective translation of research into services directly benefiting society.
The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), which plays a pivotal role in providing services related to weather, climate, oceans, and natural hazards, contributes significantly to disaster preparedness and risk mitigation by offering crucial forecasts and warnings for weather events, cyclones, floods, and earthquakes.
Highlighting a holistic and integrated approach to Earth system science, PRITHVI involves 10 research institutes working collaboratively. It facilitates collaborative research across disciplines, addressing complex challenges in areas like extreme weather, oceanic resources, and cryospheric changes. This integrated methodology opens doors to innovative programs and solutions, addressing pressing environmental and societal concerns.
The government emphasized that by investing in research, education, and training, PRITHVI aims to cultivate a skilled workforce of Earth system scientists for the future, ensuring the continuity of vital research and service delivery. This strategic investment safeguards India’s preparedness for a changing planet and aligns with the nation’s commitment to understanding and managing the complex dynamics of the Earth. The government believes that the comprehensive approach, coupled with robust research and service delivery, will enhance India’s resilience in the face of climatic and environmental challenges, securing a sustainable future for generations to come.