PRITHVI Scheme The PRITHvi Vigyan (PRITHVI) Scheme is a comprehensive and integrated umbrella programme of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), aimed at advancing the country's capabilities in Earth system science. Approved with a financial outlay of Rs. 4797 cr for the period 2021-2026, the scheme consolidates multiple ongoing initiatives into a single, unified framework to promote efficiency, coordination, and scientific excellence. The scheme is designed to adopt a holistic approach to address all major components of the Earth system, including the atmosphere, oceans, geosphere, cryosphere, and biosphere. The scheme has significantly enhanced India's capabilities in disaster early warning, climate and ocean services, seismic monitoring, and polar research. It has contributed directly to national priorities such as climate resilience, Blue Economy development, and the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, while also supporting global commitments like Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13 (Climate Action) and 14 (Life Below Water). Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) is mandated to provide services for weather, climate, ocean and coastal state, hydrology, seismology, and natural hazards; to explore and harness marine living and non-living resources in a sustainable manner for the country and to explore the three poles of the Earth (Arctic, Antarctic and Himalayas). Earlier, different domains of Earth sciences such as meteorology, oceanography, seismology, and polar research were managed through separate schemes and institutions. While these initiatives achieved significant progress in their respective areas, the lack of integration often limited their overall impact. Earth systems are deeply interconnected, with changes in one component often influencing many others. Recognizing this, the PRITHVI scheme has been designed to unite diverse scientific disciplines under a single framework, enabling a holistic, systems-based approach. It merged five earlier schemes ACROSS (Atmosphere and Climate Research Modelling Observing Systems and Services), O-SMART (Ocean Services, Modelling, Application, Resources, and Technology), PACER (Polar Science and Cryosphere Research), SAGE (Seismology and Geosciences), and REACHOUT (Research, Education, Training, and Outreach). This integration not only improves scientific understanding but also ensures that research outputs are effectively translated into actionable services for society. The PRITHVI scheme is fully funded by the Government of India and implemented through MoES and its network of specialized institutions. These include the India Meteorological Department (IMD), National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) Goa, National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) Chennai, Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) Hyderabad, Centre for Marine Living Resources and Ecology (CMLRE) Kochi, National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) Chennai, National Centre for Earth Science Studies. (NCESS) Thiruvananthapuram, National Centre for Seismology (NCS) New Delhi, National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), Noida, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) Pune and Borehole Geophysical Research Lab (BGRL) Karad. These institutions work in close coordination to ensure the effective implementation of the scheme's objectives. The scheme also involves collaborations with academic institutions and international organizations to strengthen research and innovation. Objectives of the Scheme The PRITHVI scheme is guided by a comprehensive set of objectives that reflect both scientific advancement and societal relevance. It seeks to strengthen long-term observational systems for monitoring the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, cryosphere, and solid earth. This includes the establishment and maintenance of advanced monitoring networks for the atmosphere, oceans, and geophysical processes, enabling the continuous recording of environmental parameters. It also aims to promote research and development in Earth sciences, supported by modern infrastructure and advanced technologies. A key objective is the development of predictive models for weather, ocean conditions, and climate hazards, which are essential for disaster preparedness and risk reduction. In addition, PRITHVI aims to support sustainable development by providing critical data and advisories to sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, water resources, and urban planning. The scheme also focuses on monitoring seismic activity and assessing earthquake hazards, particularly in vulnerable regions. Additionally, it emphasizes the exploration of polar regions and deep-sea environments for scientific knowledge and resource potential. Another important goal is the development of technologies for sustainable utilization of ocean resources, including renewable energy and desalination. The scheme also prioritizes translating scientific knowledge into practical services for society, such as advisories for fishermen and early warning systems for disasters. Finally, it aims to build skilled human resources in Earth sciences through training, research support, and capacity-building initiatives. Components of the Scheme The PRITHVI scheme comprises five major components, each addressing a specific domain of Earth sciences while contributing to the overall integrated framework. The first component, ACROSS (Atmosphere and Climate Research - Modelling Observing Systems and Services), focuses on atmospheric science and climate research. It involves the development of advanced weather forecasting systems, climate models, and observation networks, which play a critical role in providing accurate weather predictions and early warnings for extreme events. The second component, O-SMART (Ocean Services, Modelling, Application, Resources, and Technology), deals with ocean-related activities, including the observation and monitoring of ocean parameters, resource exploitation, development of marine technologies, and provision of ocean advisory services. It integrates various oceanographic activities into a single framework aligned with India's Blue Economy vision. This component is particularly important for supporting coastal communities, fisheries, and the blue economy. The third component, PACER (Polar Science and Cryosphere Research), focuses on research in polar regions and the study of glaciers and ice systems. It includes scientific expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic, as well as studies on the Himalayan cryosphere, which are essential for understanding global climate change and its regional impacts. The fourth component, SAGE (Seismology and Geosciences), addresses geophysical processes, including earthquake monitoring, seismic hazard assessment, and research on the Earth's interior. This component plays a vital role in disaster risk reduction and infrastructure planning. The fifth component, REACHOUT (Research, Education, Training, and Outreach), emphasizes capacity building, academic collaboration, and public engagement, ensuring that the benefits of Earth science research are widely disseminated and that a skilled workforce is developed for the future. Significance of the Scheme The PRITHVI scheme holds immense significance for India as it strengthens the country's ability to address environmental and climatic challenges in a comprehensive manner. One of its most important contributions is in the area of disaster risk reduction. India is highly vulnerable to natural disasters such as cyclones, floods, droughts, heatwaves, and earthquakes, and the scheme enhances early warning systems and preparedness measures, thereby reducing loss of life and property. The scheme also plays a crucial role in climate change research, providing valuable insights into climate variability, long-term trends, and potential impacts. This information is essential for developing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies and for fulfilling India's commitments under international agreements such as the Paris Agreement. Furthermore, PRITHVI supports key sectors of the economy by providing reliable data and advisories. In agriculture, weather forecasts help farmers plan sowing, irrigation, and harvesting activities, while in fisheries, ocean advisories guide fishermen to potential fishing zones and ensure their safety. The scheme also contributes to water resource management, urban planning, and infrastructure development by providing critical environmental data. Additionally, through its focus on ocean sciences, PRITHVI promotes the sustainable utilization of marine resources and supports the growth of the blue economy, which is an important driver of economic development. Achievements of the Scheme The PRITHVI scheme has yielded significant achievements and outcomes in the field of Earth sciences. ACROSS sub-scheme The ACROSS sub-scheme has played a crucial role in strengthening India's weather and climate capabilities. One of its major achievements is the significant improvement in weather forecasting accuracy, with better prediction of extreme events such as cyclones, heatwaves, heavy rainfall, and thunderstorms. The sub-scheme has also contributed to the development of advanced early warning systems, including lightning alerts and nowcasting services that provide short-term forecasts for hundreds of locations across the country. In addition, the expansion of observational infrastructure, such as Doppler Weather Radars, high wind speed recorders, and improved atmospheric monitoring systems, has strengthened real-time data collection and analysis. The establishment of high-performance computing systems has further enhanced the ability to process large datasets and run complex weather and climate models. Another key achievement of the ACROSS sub-scheme is the development of advanced forecasting models, including global and regional numerical weather prediction models and ensemble systems. It has also supported the development of India's Earth System Model, improving long-term climate projections and contributing to global climate research. The scheme has significantly improved monsoon forecasting, which is critical for India's agriculture and water resources. ACROSS sub-scheme has enabled the dissemination of agrometeorological advisories to millions of farmers through various communication channels. It has also supported sectors such as aviation, fisheries, water resource management, and disaster management by providing tailored weather and ocean information services. OSMART sub-scheme The OSMART sub-scheme has strengthened India's ocean-related research, services, and resource management. One of its major achievements is the improvement in ocean forecasting and advisory services, including accurate predictions of waves, tides, storm surges, and ocean currents. These services are widely used by coastal communities, fishermen, and maritime agencies, enhancing safety and operational efficiency. A key contribution of the scheme is the development and dissemination of Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories, which help fishermen locate fish-rich areas, thereby increasing their catch while reducing fuel consumption and time at sea. The scheme has also strengthened early warning systems for ocean-related hazards such as tsunamis, cyclones, and coastal inundation, helping minimize risks to life and property. OSMART has expanded ocean observation systems through the deployment of buoys, Argo floats, tide gauges, and other platforms that provide real-time data on ocean parameters. This has improved the understanding of ocean dynamics and supported better modelling and forecasting. The scheme has also enabled advancements in ocean modelling, including high-resolution ocean state forecasts and coupled ocean-atmosphere models. Another important achievement is progress in the exploration and sustainable utilization of marine resources. The scheme has supported deep-sea mining research, particularly for polymetallic nodules, as well as studies on marine biodiversity and ecosystems. It has also promoted the development of ocean technologies, including underwater vehicles, sensors, and desalination technologies. PACER sub-scheme The PACER sub-scheme has advanced India's capabilities in polar and cryospheric science. One of its key achievements is the strengthening of India's scientific presence in the Arctic, Antarctic, and the Himalayan cryosphere through sustained research expeditions and the establishment of modern research infrastructure. This has enabled continuous monitoring and data collection in some of the most climate-sensitive regions of the world. This data has been used to improve climate models and weather prediction systems. It has also helped in reconstructing past climate conditions using ice core studies, thereby providing insights into long-term climate variability. Research under PACER has improved knowledge about the melting of Himalayan glaciers and its implications for river systems, water security, and sea-level rise. The sub-scheme has also supported studies on polar biology, biodiversity, and ecosystem responses to changing climatic conditions. The enactment of the Indian Antarctic Act (2022) and the hosting of international treaty meetings highlight India's growing leadership in polar governance. SAGE sub-scheme The SAGE sub-scheme has strengthened India's capabilities in earthquake monitoring and seismological research. One of its major achievements is the expansion and modernization of the national seismological network from 115 to 169 observatories, enabling real-time detection and analysis of earthquakes with improved accuracy. This has enhanced the ability to quickly assess earthquake parameters such as magnitude, depth, and epicentre. The sub-scheme has also contributed to the studies for major cities, which are crucial for urban planning and disaster risk reduction. Scientific advancements include seismic microzonation of cities, deep drilling studies in the Koyna region, and improved understanding of India's lithospheric evolution and coastal dynamics. Research under SAGE has improved understanding of tectonic processes and earthquake generation mechanisms, particularly in seismically active regions. REACHOUT sub-scheme The REACHOUT sub-scheme has focused on capacity building and research support. It has played an important role in promoting awareness and understanding of Earth system sciences among students, researchers, and the general public. The scheme has also strengthened academic collaboration by supporting research projects, fellowships, and partnerships between institutions in India and abroad. It has funded around 150 research projects and conducted over 200 training programmes, strengthening India’s scientific workforce and fostering international collaboration. Programmes such as ITCOcean, DESK, and BIMSTEC Centre for Weather and Climate provided specialized training and capacity building for professionals and students. The Prithvi Scheme has strengthened India's role in global scientific collaborations by contributing to international research programs related to major components of the Earth system, including the atmosphere, oceans, geosphere, cryosphere, and biosphere. It has facilitated partnerships with other countries and institutions, enhancing data sharing and joint research initiatives. In addition, it has facilitated capacity building, technological advancements, and international collaboration. It has contributed to the growth of the blue economy by supporting sectors such as fisheries, shipping, offshore industries, and coastal zone management. It has also enhanced India's role in global ocean observation and research initiatives. Challenges Despite its comprehensive design and ambitious objectives, the PRITHVI scheme faces several scientific, logistical, infrastructural, administrative, and financial challenges, many of which were further aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting timelines, operational continuity, and scientific outputs. Earth system science research inherently involves operations in remote and hostile regions such as the Polar areas, Southern Ocean, Himalayan glaciers, and islands, where accessibility constraints, limited weather windows, environmental conditions, corrosion, biofouling, and vandalism significantly affect field activities and equipment performance. One of the major challenges is the need for advanced technological infrastructure, including research vessels, high-performance computing systems and sophisticated observation networks, which require significant investment and maintenance. The absence of a dedicated Polar Research Vessel restricted expansion of Arctic and Antarctic research activities. A persistent shortage of institutional core manpower, including scientific, administrative, legal, and technical personnel, severely constrained implementation capacity, continuity of expertise, training activities, and timely scientific outputs. Administrative delays and financial constraints, including land acquisition issues, dependence on international chartering costs, exchange rate fluctuations, and rising fuel prices, further affected project execution. Additionally, weak industry participation and limited availability of marine technology manufacturers and infrastructure providers emerged as significant barriers to advancing marine and offshore research capabilities under the scheme. Addressing these challenges requires continuous investment in technology, capacity building, and institutional strengthening. Way Forward To maximize the benefits of the PRITHVI scheme, several measures can be undertaken in the future. Technological innovation should be prioritized, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced modelling techniques, which can significantly improve forecasting accuracy and data analysis. Strengthening international collaboration is vital, as it fosters the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and data, thereby enhancing the programme's overall effectiveness. Public-private partnerships can be explored to leverage additional resources and promote innovation. Capacity building should remain a key focus, with increased investment in education and training programmes to develop skilled professionals in Earth sciences. It is also important to enhance public awareness and outreach activities, ensuring that the benefits of the scheme reach all sections of society. Finally, integrating scientific findings more effectively into policy-making will strengthen evidence-based decisions, supporting both sustainable development and climate resilience. The PRITHVI (Prithvi Vigyan) Scheme represents a transformative initiative in India's approach to Earth system science. By integrating multiple disciplines under a unified framework, it addresses the complex and interconnected challenges posed by climate change, natural disasters, and environmental degradation. The scheme not only advances scientific research but also delivers essential services that directly benefit society, contributing to disaster risk reduction, sustainable development, and economic growth. While there are challenges to be addressed, the potential benefits of the scheme are immense, and with continued support, innovation, and effective implementation, PRITHVI has played a pivotal role in strengthening India's resilience and establishing the country as a global leader in Earth sciences. This article is written by Dr Vijay Kumar, Senior Expert/Consultant (Ocean Science & Technology) Former Scientist G, Ministry of Earth Sciences Dr Aparna Shukla, Scientist F, Ministry of Earth Sciences Dr Vandana Chaudhary, Scientist G, Ministry of Earth Sciences Dr M Ravichandran, Former Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences [Published in DREAM 2047 Major National Scientific Missions & Programmes (June-July 2026 / Vol. 06) : A magazine by Department of Science & Technology, GoI]