the Department of Ocean Development (dod) is setting up an exclusive Antarc-tic Study Centre (asc). The centre will be first national polar research lab in India with the task of planning, and executing research and conducting expeditions to the icy continent. The asc would have a low temperature laboratory complex for the preservation and analysis of ice cores retrieved not only from Antarctic but also from the Himalayas, says the dod secretary, E Muthunayagam.
He says that the centre would also focus on studies to understand the past climatic and environmental conditions of the Earth. It will develop the latest facilities for employing advanced satellite technology to appreciate the global phenomenon which is controlled by Antarctica and its surrounding oceans.
The dod has already got the green signal and is in an advanced stage of having its own ocean-based satellite with the help of the Indian Space Research Organisation by the end of the year. Efforts are being made to develop a comprehensive data base repository on polar science and logistics, including a museum on polar activities. It would also coordinate with all international campaigns to be mounted under the aegis of environment protocol requirements.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.