Assam Government to Launch Its Own Satellite ‘ASSAMSAT’

In a landmark move, the Assam state government has announced plans to launch its own satellite, ASSAMSAT, to bolster data access for crucial socio-economic initiatives and enhance border security. This announcement was made by Assam Finance Minister Ajanta Neog while presenting the state budget for the financial year 2025-26. The satellite is envisioned to provide dedicated services for agriculture, disaster management, infrastructure development, and security operations. This initiative marks a historic milestone, as Assam becomes the first Indian state to launch its own satellite.

ASSAMSAT: Assam’s Step into Space Technology

The ASSAMSAT satellite will be developed in collaboration with IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center) and ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation). The initiative is part of the BJP-led coalition government’s vision to strengthen technological capabilities and enhance governance through satellite-based surveillance and monitoring systems.

Objectives of ASSAMSAT

• Strengthening Border Security: The satellite will provide real-time surveillance over the state’s borders, assisting in tracking any illegal movements, including infiltration.
• Disaster Management: By offering early warning systems for floods and landslides, it will play a crucial role in mitigating natural calamities, especially along the Brahmaputra River.
• Agricultural Advancements: The satellite will help farmers by providing weather forecasts, soil health analysis, and crop monitoring data, enhancing overall productivity.
• Infrastructure Development: It will aid in urban planning, monitoring developmental projects, and identifying infrastructure gaps for better implementation.
• Law Enforcement & Police Operations: The satellite’s surveillance capabilities will assist police and security agencies in tracking criminal activities and improving law enforcement efficiency.

Budget Allocation and Cost Estimation

The Assam government has earmarked a total budget of Rs 2.6 lakh crore for the financial year 2025-26. The financial allocation 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.

Regarding ASSAMSAT, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that preliminary discussions with ISRO have been held. The satellite, which will be geostationary, is expected to cost between Rs 450 crore to Rs 500 crore.

Chief Minister’s Vision for ASSAMSAT

During a media interaction, CM Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the strategic importance of the satellite. He highlighted the following key aspects:

• Enhanced Border Surveillance: The satellite will help in detecting any illegal crossings along Assam’s borders, ensuring better security and control.
• Faster Response to Disasters: Citing the January 2025 coal mine accident in Umrangso, where nine workers lost their lives, the CM stressed that ASSAMSAT will ensure immediate access to real-time satellite images, unlike the current dependence on foreign satellites for data.
• Support for Farmers: Timely weather updates and flood forecasting for the Brahmaputra River will greatly benefit Assam’s farmers.
• Boosting Research and Innovation: The satellite project will inspire students and researchers to engage in space technology and experimental satellite building, fostering innovation in Assam.

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.

Summary of Assam’s ASSAMSAT & Budget Announcements (2025-26)