UPSC Mains 2018 GS1 Q4 — Space Technology
Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed ? How does it help in navigation ? (Answer in 150 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Why isHow does
- Scope keywords
- Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS)neededhelp in navigation
- Implicit sub-parts
- Shortcomings or vulnerabilities of relying on foreign systems like GPS/GLONASS.
- Strategic and sovereign necessity for an independent positioning system.
- Technical mechanism of signal provision (Standard Positioning vs. Restricted Services).
- Specific navigational applications in civil, maritime, and defense sectors.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too many words on the technical orbital mechanics of the 7 satellites (3 geostationary, 4 geosynchronous) instead of answering 'Why'.
- Failing to mention the Kargil War context or the strategic risk of 'denial of service' by foreign providers.
- Treating it as a global system rather than highlighting its 'regional' 1500km boundary limitation.
- Ignoring the 'NavIC' branding and its current integration into consumer electronics.
- Dimensions required
- Strategic/DefenseEconomic/CommercialTechnologicalSovereign/Geopolitical
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 40 words to the 'Need' focusing on strategic autonomy and foreign dependency risks. Devote 80 words to the 'How it helps' section by bifurcating it into civilian (L5/S band) and military (encrypted) utility. Use the remaining 30 words for a concise introduction and a forward-looking conclusion regarding NavIC's expansion.
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