Centre Signs MoU with ISRO for Water Research

The Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Indian Space Research Organisation signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 1 June 2026 in New Delhi. The agreement covers the use of satellite technology and space-based applications for water resource management in India.

Memorandum of Understanding and Institutional Framework

The MoU was signed during a national workshop on research and development in the water sector at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre. The Department of Water Resources and ISRO will collaborate in 24 research areas under the agreement.

Research Areas in Water Management

The collaboration includes reservoir monitoring, water-spread assessment, river-flow analysis, satellite-based water quality assessment, and studies on macroplastic distribution in water bodies. These topics fall within remote sensing, hydrology, and environmental monitoring.

Related Programmes and Innovation Platforms

The workshop also launched the MAHA on Water programme, which stands for Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas for Water. The programme is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Anusandhan National Research Foundation. An open call for startups and MSMEs was announced under the Bharat Water Innovation Network platform. The platform is linked to innovation in the water sector.

Important Facts for Exams

• ISRO was established in 1969 and functions under the Department of Space, Government of India.
• Remote sensing satellites are used in India for mapping water bodies, monitoring floods, and assessing drought conditions.
• The Dr. Ambedkar International Centre is located in New Delhi.
• Water resource management in India involves river basins, reservoirs, groundwater, and water quality monitoring.

Historical Context and Policy Linkage

Cooperation between ISRO and the water resources sector dates back to 1982. Water security is linked to long-term development planning in India, including the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.