New Delhi, Dec 22 (UNI) The advent of new technology, especially the digitised applications and services launched by the Government, have given the fishermen, especially those residing in the coastal areas of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, a sense of security, as they keep the fishermen alert and also help them during distress times at the sea.
These views were expressed by R Shakya, Deputy Director General (Satellite), Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, while participating in the virtual summit on 'Criticality of Transforming Fisheries Industry: Ushering Digitization to Support PMMSY,' organised by India's premier news agency, United News of India, here on Tuesday.
Talking about the new-age technologies, Mr Shakya mentioned the NavIC Messaging Receivers (NMR), which is an indigenous system, developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Ahmedabad.
The system sends alert messages regarding Cyclones, High Waves and Tsunami to the fishermen on their mobile phones in native languages, using Bluetooth, he said.
It also warns them about international boundaries and gives detailed information on potential fishing zones, added the DDG.
Talking about other applications, Mr Shakya listed the Distress Alert Transmitter (DAT), Second Generation Distress Alert Transmitter (2G-DAT), 2 Way Vessel Tracking Terminal, MSS Satellite Phone and VSAT Link as the new-age helpers of the fishermen.
Giving details, he said DAT is an INSAT-based battery operated transmitter, which is developed for 'NAVIKA' community.
In case of emergency, DAT transmits an emergency message, which consists of the boat's ID, it's location, type of distress and time information. The DAT transmits the information to INSAT-3A satellite, which relays the signal to the Indian Coast Guard in Chennai for rescue operation, added Mr Shakya.
The technologies are not only used by the fishermen community, but even the Defence personnel at the borders make use of these for easy and smooth communication at remote corners of the country.
UNI RJ SHK2210