<h4>Introduction to PRITHVI Vigyan Scheme</h4><p>The <strong>Union Cabinet</strong> has recently given its approval for the comprehensive scheme named <strong>PRITHVI Vigyan (PRITHVI)</strong>. This significant initiative falls under the purview of the <strong>Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Scheme Name:</strong> PRITHVI Vigyan (PRITHVI)</p><p><strong>Administering Ministry:</strong> Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)</p><p><strong>Approval Body:</strong> Union Cabinet</p></div><h4>Purpose and Scope of PRITHVI</h4><p>The <strong>PRITHVI scheme</strong> is designed to enhance <strong>Earth System Sciences</strong> across various domains. Its primary goal is to provide crucial services that contribute to societal, environmental, and economic well-being.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Holistic Approach:</strong> PRITHVI comprehensively addresses five key components of <strong>Earth System Sciences</strong>: <strong>atmosphere</strong>, <strong>hydrosphere</strong>, <strong>geosphere</strong>, <strong>cryosphere</strong>, and <strong>biosphere</strong>.</p></div><h4>Scheme Duration and Structure</h4><p>This overarching scheme by the <strong>MoES</strong> is slated for the period from <strong>2021 to 2026</strong>. It consolidates and encompasses five existing sub-schemes under its umbrella.</p><h4>The Five Sub-Schemes of PRITHVI</h4><ul><li><strong>ACROSS:</strong> This stands for <strong>Atmosphere and Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services</strong>. It focuses on atmospheric and climate-related studies.</li><li><strong>O-SMART:</strong> This sub-scheme covers <strong>Ocean Services, Modelling Application, Resources and Technology</strong>, emphasizing marine research and applications.</li><li><strong>PACER:</strong> Dedicated to <strong>Polar Science and Cryosphere Research</strong>, this component addresses studies related to polar regions and ice.</li><li><strong>SAGE:</strong> Encompassing <strong>Seismology and Geosciences</strong>, SAGE aims to strengthen <strong>earthquake monitoring</strong> and research on the Earth's solid components. It includes activities like <strong>seismological monitoring</strong> and <strong>microzonation</strong>.</li><li><strong>REACHOUT:</strong> This component focuses on <strong>Research, Education, Training and Outreach</strong>, promoting capacity building and public engagement in Earth Sciences.</li></ul><h4>Key Objectives of the PRITHVI Scheme</h4><p>The scheme has clearly defined objectives to ensure its impact and effectiveness.</p><ol><li>To augment and sustain <strong>long-term observations</strong> of the <strong>atmosphere</strong>, <strong>ocean</strong>, <strong>geosphere</strong>, <strong>cryosphere</strong>, and <strong>solid earth</strong>. This is crucial for recording the vital signs of the <strong>Earth System</strong> and detecting changes.</li><li>To develop advanced <strong>modelling systems</strong> for understanding and predicting <strong>weather</strong>, <strong>ocean</strong>, and <strong>climate hazards</strong>. It also aims to deepen the scientific understanding of <strong>climate change</strong>.</li></ol><h4>ISRO-Mauritius Collaboration</h4><p>In a related development, the <strong>Cabinet</strong> also approved an agreement between the <strong>Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)</strong> and the <strong>Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC)</strong>. This agreement is for the joint development of a <strong>small satellite</strong>.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> This collaboration highlights India's growing role in <strong>space diplomacy</strong> and its commitment to assisting partner nations in space technology. It's relevant for <strong>GS-II (International Relations)</strong> and <strong>GS-III (Science & Technology)</strong>.</p></div><p>India and Mauritius share a long-standing history of cooperation in space. Since the <strong>1980s</strong>, <strong>ISRO</strong> has maintained a ground station in Mauritius, providing crucial tracking and telemetry support for its launch vehicle and satellite missions.</p>