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The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) has developed a newer version of its own Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) for ‘better accuracy and utility’ to aid the Indian Search and Rescue (SAR) agencies such as the Indian Coast Guard in their operations at sea.

About Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT)

It was launched in 2016 by the Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) under the Make in India programme. Facilitates search and rescue operations at sea by quickly locating persons or vessels in distress.

Key features and functions:

• Advanced modeling: The tool uses ensemble modeling to account for uncertainties in the initial location and time of the missing object. Movements are tracked based on ocean currents and winds.
• Technological Backbone: Relies on high-resolution Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS) data, operationally run on high-performance computers at INCOIS.
• Customizable options: Users can choose from up to 60 types of missing objects (categorized by shape and buoyancy) and determine the last known location using an interactive map or enter distance and direction.
• Results and Communication: The tool generates an interactive map showing the likely search area with results also sent by text and email. Localized languages ​​are supported to help fishermen in need.

SARAT version 2 enhancements:

• The default search position is now set exactly to the last known position.
• Improved visualizations include color-coded search areas, better visibility of likely search areas, and a marker to identify the last known location.

About the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS)

It was established as an autonomous body in 1999 under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and is a unit of the Earth System Science Organisation (ESSO). INCOIS is mandated to provide ocean information and advisory services to society, industry, government agencies and the scientific community through sustained ocean observations.

Headquarters: Hyderabad.

About Indian Search and Rescue (SAR) agencies

India is a signatory to the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR), 1979, ratified in May 2001.

India’s obligations under SAR Conventions are listed below:-

• Formulation of National Legislation for Implementation
• Establishment of SAR Plan as per IAMSAR Manual I, II and III
• Establishment of Facilities
• Competent Manpower
• Establishment of Reporting System
• Enforcement Machinery
• Evaluation and Review 

The ICG is the agency responsible for coordinating Search and Rescue (SAR) in the Indian Search and Rescue Region (ISRR). The DGICG has been designated as the National Maritime Search and Rescue Coordinating Authority (NMSARCA) and is also the Chairman of the National Maritime Search and Rescue Council.

The Indian Coast Guard has been operating INDSAR (Indian SAR Computerized Ship Reporting System) since 2003. It is a free reporting system that seeks to help the MRCC redirect the most appropriate resources to the emergency location and also track a ship that is overdue or may need urgent assistance . Participation in INDSAR is voluntary and free of charge for foreign-flagged vessels.

ICG ships and aircraft are also deployed during various festivals along the coast like Ganesh festival in Maharashtra, Rath Yatra in Puri in Odisha, Ganga Sagar Mela in Sagar Island in West Bengal etc. to provide SAR coverage. 

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https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/indian-national-centre-for-ocean-information-services-incois-40

Source:

THE HINDU