Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024: ISRO Partners with Automotive Industry for Sensors
ISRO is initiating a collaboration with the automotive sector, which aims to develop vehicle sensors in India. The automotive industry currently relies on imported sensors, which are often low-cost but still imported. In contrast, ISRO produces all sensors for its rockets domestically. However, these sensors are more expensive. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath brought to light this contradiction. He emphasized the need for a shift towards local production.
Upcoming Workshop
ISRO will host a workshop next week, which will bring together the automotive and space sectors. The objective is to discuss local sensor manufacturing. Participants will explore cost-effective production methods. The aim is to produce sensors in large volumes. This initiative seeks to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic brought to light vulnerabilities in the supply chain. A shortage of sensors disrupted vehicle production. This incident telld the need for local manufacturing. Building a robust domestic supply chain is essential. It will help mitigate future disruptions in the automotive sector.
Gaganyaan Programme Updates
Mr. Somanath provided updates on the Gaganyaan programme., which is India’s human spaceflight mission. ISRO plans three uncrewed missions and one crewed mission. The first uncrewed mission is scheduled for 2024-25. The crewed mission is expected by 2026. Preparations for the missions are in full swing. The rocket assembly for the first uncrewed mission has begun. A potential launch could occur early in the new year.
Importance of Local Production
Local sensor production can reduce dependency on imports. It can also lower costs for the automotive industry. This shift aligns with India’s broader goals of self-reliance. The collaboration with ISRO may encourage innovation in sensor technology. The automotive sector stands to benefit from this partnership.
Important Facts for Exams:
- Gaganyaan Programme: Gaganyaan is India’s first human spaceflight mission. It includes three uncrewed missions and one crewed mission. The first uncrewed mission is set for 2024-25.
- S. Somanath: S. Somanath is the Chairman of ISRO. He emphasises local production of sensors. He brought into light the contradiction of expensive domestic sensors versus cheaper imports during a recent tech summit.
- Bengaluru Tech Summit: The Bengaluru Tech Summit is event in India’s tech calendar. It gathers industry leaders to discuss innovations. The summit encourages collaboration between various sectors, including automotive and space.
- COVID-19 Impact: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in supply chains. Sensor shortages disrupted vehicle production. This brought into light the urgent need for local manufacturing in the automotive sector.
Month: Current Affairs - November, 2024
Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs