In a significant development, the Assam state government has revealed plans to launch its own satellite, ASSAMSAT, aimed at improving data access for essential socio-economic programs and strengthening border security. This announcement was made by Assam Finance Minister Ajanta Neog during the presentation of the state budget for the financial year 2025-26. The satellite is expected to offer specialized services for agriculture, disaster management, infrastructure development, and security operations. This initiative represents a historic milestone, making Assam the first Indian state to launch its own satellite.
ASSAMSAT: Assam’s Step into Space Technology
The ASSAMSAT satellite is set to be developed in partnership with IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center) and ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation). This initiative is part of the BJP-led coalition government’s aim to strengthen technological capabilities and enhance governance through satellite-based surveillance and monitoring systems.
Objectives of ASSAMSAT
• Strengthening Border Control: The satellite will offer real-time oversight of the state’s borders, aiding in the detection of illegal activities, including unauthorized crossings.
• Natural Disaster Management: By providing early warning systems for floods and landslides, it will be crucial in reducing the impact of natural disasters, particularly along the Brahmaputra River.
• Advancements in Agriculture: The satellite will support farmers with weather forecasts, soil health insights, and crop monitoring data, improving overall productivity.
• Development of Infrastructure: It will assist in urban planning, oversee development projects, and identify gaps in infrastructure for better implementation.
• Law Enforcement and Security Operations: The satellite’s surveillance capabilities will help police and security agencies track criminal activities and enhance law enforcement effectiveness.
Budget Allocation and Cost Estimation
The Assam government has set aside a total budget of Rs 2.6 lakh crore for the financial year 2025-26. This budget includes:
• Rs 1.55 lakh crore from the consolidated fund.
• Rs 1.02 lakh crore from the public account.
• Rs 2,000 crore from the contingency fund.
In relation to ASSAMSAT, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma mentioned that initial talks with ISRO have taken place. The satellite, which will be geostationary, is projected to cost between Rs 450 crore and Rs 500 crore.
Additional Landmark Projects Announced in the 2025-26 Budget
Apart from ASSAMSAT, the Assam government has unveiled several ambitious initiatives in the 2025-26 budget, reflecting a vision for technological and economic transformation. Some of these include:
India’s First AI-Powered Anti-Deepfake & Cyber-Surveillance Lab:
- Aims to combat digital misinformation and enhance cybersecurity.
- Will develop advanced AI-based surveillance to detect and prevent cyber threats.
India’s First Green Packaging Industrial Hub:
- Promotes sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions.
- Encourages investments in biodegradable packaging materials.
India’s First Bamboo Smart City:
- Leverages Assam’s abundant bamboo resources for sustainable urban development.
- Aims to create eco-friendly infrastructure and employment opportunities.
India’s First AI & Blockchain-Powered Tea Auction System:
- Enhances transparency and efficiency in tea trading.
- Uses AI algorithms to determine optimal pricing for Assam’s tea industry.
Government OTT Platforms for Assamese Art & Culture Preservation:
- Aims to digitally preserve Assamese cinema, literature, folk songs, music, and documentaries.
- Provides a dedicated platform for local artists and cultural heritage.
