NEW DELHI (India CSR) — India’s indigenous satellite navigation system, NAVIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation), has reached a major milestone with 11 satellites launched into orbit, the government informed the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.
In a written reply, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and other portfolios, shared key updates on the progress and future roadmap of the NAVIC programme.
This achievement is a major step forward in India’s space journey and aligns with national goals under Digital India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Satellite Status: 11 in Orbit
India has so far launched 11 NAVIC satellites:
- 4 satellites are providing Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) services.
- 4 satellites are used for one-way message broadcasting.
- 1 satellite has been decommissioned after completing its lifespan.
This network of satellites enhances India’s capability to offer independent and accurate regional navigation services, strengthening national infrastructure.
Upcoming Launches in 2025-26
The minister informed that:
- NVS-03 will be launched by end of 2025.
- NVS-04 and NVS-05 will follow at six-month intervals.
These planned launches will further strengthen India’s satellite navigation architecture, ensuring continuity and improved performance of services.
19.6 Lakh Vehicles Now Tracked
The Vahan dashboard reports that 19.6 lakh vehicles in India are currently fitted with NAVIC-enabled vehicle tracking systems. Additionally, 153 certified vehicle models with tracking compatibility are now available in the Indian market.
This demonstrates NAVIC’s growing integration in India’s transportation and public safety infrastructure.
Expanding India’s Satellite Navigation Applications
NAVIC’s strategic and civilian applications include:
- Real-time vehicle tracking
- Disaster warning systems
- Fisheries and agriculture support
- Marine and road navigation
- Search-and-rescue operations
NAVIC’s messaging feature is especially critical during natural disasters, offering timely alerts in remote and coastal areas.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Space
India’s expansion of NAVIC reflects its commitment to self-reliance in high-tech sectors. By reducing dependency on foreign systems like GPS, NAVIC empowers India with secure, accurate, and sovereign navigation capabilities.
(India CSR)
