In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...
Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS)

The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad, has been honored with the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar-2025 for its remarkable contributions to disaster management in India.
About Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar
- Annual Award announced on January 23rd (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary).
- Recognizes individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions in disaster management.
- Aims to enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities in India.
- INCOIS received this award for its excellence in ocean disaster monitoring and early warning systems.
What is INCOIS?
- Full Name: Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services
- Established: 1999
- Governing Body: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
- Affiliation: Unit of Earth System Science Organisation (ESSO)
- Global Recognition: Permanent member of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC).
INCOIS is a premier institution responsible for providing ocean-related advisory services and disaster warnings in India.
Key Functions of INCOIS
Ocean Data & Information Services
Monitors oceanic changes and provides real-time information to various stakeholders, including:
- Fishermen
- Coastal communities
- Shipping industries
- Defense & research institutions
Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC)
Issues timely warnings for:
- Tsunamis
- Storm surges
- High waves & swells
Plays a crucial role in reducing loss of life and property in coastal regions.
Marine Weather Forecasting
Provides weather alerts related to:
- Cyclones
- Rough seas
- Ocean currents
Ocean State Forecasting
Predicts sea conditions for:
- Navigation & shipping safety
- Fishing zones optimization
- Offshore industries development
Support for Blue Economy Initiatives
Aids sustainable development of ocean resources by:
- Assisting coastal tourism
- Improving maritime security
- Enhancing fisheries & marine conservation
Why is INCOIS Important?
- Disaster Preparedness – Protects coastal communities from natural calamities.
- Sustainable Ocean Use – Supports blue economy growth while maintaining ecological balance.
- Global Collaboration – Contributes to international ocean monitoring programs under UNESCO.
- Technological Advancement – Uses satellite data, AI, and high-tech ocean sensors for precise forecasting.
Future Prospects
- Advancing AI-driven ocean modeling for better predictions.
- Expanding tsunami monitoring networks for greater accuracy.
- Strengthening India's role in global climate and ocean research.
INCOIS continues to be India’s frontline defense against ocean disasters while ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources.