ISRO launches GSAT-29 for better communication in Northeast
ISRO launches GSAT-29 for better communication in Northeast Photo: ISRO

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched their newest communication satellite GSAT-29, specifically for Northeast and Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday.

GSAT-29 carries Ka/Ku-band high throughput communication transponders which will bridge the digital divide of users those in Jammu & Kashmir and North Eastern regions of India, under the โ€˜digital Indiaโ€™ programme.

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After the successful launch of the GSLV MkIII-D2, the second developmental flight of GSLV MkIII, Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, congratulated ISRO scientists.

He tweeted, โ€œA great milestone for India as the #GSLVMkIIID2 successfully launches the sophisticated #GSAT29 in space. This is a huge boost to digital connectivity, especially in #NorthEast which is transforming into a growth hub. Congratulations to @isro & the team of scientists behind it.โ€

Assam Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also congratulated the ISRO team for this milestone. He tweeted, โ€œI celebrate with pride the successful launch of GSLV MK III- D2 carrying #GSAT29. The 67th launch from #Sriharikota records heaviest satellite in orbit by an Indian launch vehicle. Kudos team @isro. This shall especially boost connectivity in the North East.โ€

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO scientists on the successful launch of GSLV MK III-D2 carrying GSAT-29 satellite. โ€œMy heartiest congratulations to our scientists on the successful launch of GSLV MK III-D2 carrying GSAT-29 satellite. The double success sets a new record of putting the heaviest satellite in orbit by an Indian launch vehicle. The satellite will provide communication and internet services to the remotest corners of our countryโ€.

โ€œThe high-speed bandwidth will bridge the digital divide in the hinterland,โ€ ISRO Chairman K Sivan told TOI.

The successful launch of GSAT-29 adds to a series of test flights ISRO is carrying out to develop the agencyโ€™s heaviest rocket for the manned space mission. The satellite weighing 3,424 kg, the has been designed for a mission lifespan of 10 years.