As for Covid-19, the first case in India also emerged from Kerala. In 2020, a student returning from China tested positive for the virus. Since then, Kerala has repeatedly reported early cases of global diseases. This raises the question: why are these diseases first detected in Kerala? One primary reason for the early detection of global diseases in Kerala is the state’s large NRI (Non-Resident Indian) population. About 2.2 million people from Kerala live abroad, with the majority working in Gulf countries. According to a report by Deccan Herald, the Gulf is a major source of employment for a significant portion of Kerala’s population. Additionally, many students from Kerala travel abroad for higher education.

People working in countries like the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and others frequently travel to Kerala. When they return, they may unknowingly bring diseases with them. Therefore, when a global pandemic or infection occurs, Kerala is often one of the first places to detect cases. In 2020, the country’s first Covid-19 patient was also a student returning from China. Kerala’s health department remains highly vigilant, especially when a new disease spreads worldwide. Strict screening measures are implemented at airports to catch infections before they spread. When the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Monkeypox a public health emergency, Kerala quickly began screening at its airports.

However, experts believe that airport screenings have their limitations. At a basic level, the tests are done, but unless a major advisory is issued by the government or WHO, these screenings may not always be fully effective. Moreover, identifying early symptoms can often be challenging, leading to delays in detecting infections. The importance of Kerala’s NRI population is underscored by the fact that during the elections held in April 2024, 22,000 NRI citizens returned home in just two days. The total number of registered NRI voters stood at 89,839. With such a large number of people connected to Gulf countries and their constant movement to and from Kerala, the state becomes a hotspot for the spread of any global disease.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three groundbreaking space infrastructure projects: the SLV Integration Facility (PIF) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota; the new ‘Semi-cryogenics Integrated Engine and Stage Test facility’ at ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri; and the ‘Trisonic Wind Tunnel’ at VSSC, Thiruvananthapuram. These projects represent a quantum leap in India’s space capabilities and underscore the country’s growing prowess in space technology.

The PSLV Integration Facility (PIF) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre is poised to revolutionize India’s space launch capabilities. With this state-of-the-art facility, the frequency of PSLV launches is set to increase from 6 to 15 per year. Moreover, the PIF can also accommodate launches of SSLV and other small launch vehicles developed by private space companies, paving the way for a more diverse and dynamic space ecosystem.

The ‘Semi-cryogenics Integrated Engine and Stage Test facility’ at ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri heralds a new era in propulsion technology. Equipped with advanced testing infrastructure, this facility will enable the development of semi-cryogenic engines and stages, enhancing the payload capability of India’s launch vehicles. The facility’s capability to test engines up to 200 tons of thrust demonstrates India’s strides towards achieving self-reliance in space propulsion technology.

Meanwhile, the inauguration of the ‘Trisonic Wind Tunnel’ at VSSC, Thiruvananthapuram, underscores India’s commitment to cutting-edge aerospace research and development. This sophisticated facility will play a crucial role in aerodynamic testing, essential for characterizing rockets and aircraft during flight in the atmospheric regime. The Trisonic Wind Tunnel will serve as a cornerstone for India’s future technology development needs, facilitating innovations in aerospace engineering and design.

In addition to inaugurating these transformative projects, Prime Minister Modi also reviewed the progress of the Gaganyaan Mission, India’s ambitious human spaceflight program. During the visit, he bestowed ‘astronaut wings’ upon the four astronaut-designates, symbolizing India’s leap into the realm of manned space exploration. The Prime Minister’s unwavering support for the Gaganyaan Mission reflects India’s determination to join the league of nations with human spaceflight capabilities.

His vision to reform India’s space sector and enhance technical capabilities has received a significant boost with the inauguration of these landmark projects. As India embarks on its journey towards the Moon, Mars, and beyond, these infrastructure developments serve as a testament to the country’s indomitable spirit and quest for scientific advancement.

BY – KASHISH JAIN