Context:
Union Cabinet approved overarching scheme “PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)” under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI) Scheme:
- Stands for “Promoting Research in Earth Systems Science, Technology, & Human Resource Development
- Aim – To significantly enhance research, modelling, and service delivery across crucial areas like weather, climate, oceans, and the polar regions.
- Implemented by – Ministry of Earth Sciences
- Tenure: 2021-26
- Purpose – Holistically address all the aspects related to the Earth System Science.
Earth System Sciences deal with all the 5 components of the earth system (atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, cryosphere, and biosphere) and their complex interactions.
- Objectives –
- Atmosphere Observation
- Hazard Prediction
- Polar Exploration
- Resource Harnessing
- Knowledge Translation
- Components encompasses 5 ongoing sub-schemes –
- Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services (ACROSS): For Research and Development (R&D) of dynamical models and providing the forecast services.
- Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources and Technology (O-SMART): For technology development for oceanic applications, services (forecast and advisories) and R&D activities in the marine and coastal environment.
- Polar Science and Cryosphere Research (PACER): Comprising the Antarctic program, Indian Arctic program, Southern Ocean program and Cryosphere and Climate program.
- Seismology and Geosciences (SAGE): Encompasses 6 activities including Seismological monitoring and microzonation, and Setting up a facility for geochronology.
- Research, Education, Training and Outreach (REACHOUT): Incorporating R&D in Earth System Science (RDESS), developing Skilled manpower in Earth System Sciences, etc.
Source: Business Standard
Previous Year Question
What is the purpose of ‘evolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna’ (eLISA) project?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2017 Prelims]
(a) To detect neutrinos
(b) To detect gravitational waves
(c) To detect the effectiveness of missile defence system
(d) To study the effect of solar flares on our communication systems
Answer: (b)
