PACER scheme

Why in news?

• The Polar Science and Cryosphere (PACER) scheme has been approved for continuation during 2021-2026.

About PACER scheme:

• The PACER scheme is implemented through National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), an autonomous institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• Objective of the scheme is to improve our understanding of Polar Science and the cryosphere system.
• The important programmes under the initiative include:
  • Antarctic program, Indian Arctic program, Southern Ocean program and Cryosphere and Climate program.
• It is one of the five major programs of MoES, other four are:
  • Atmosphere and Climate Research – Modelling, Observing Systems and Services (ACROSS).
  • Ocean Services, Technology, Observations, Resources, Modelling and Science (OSTORMS).
  • Seismology and Geosciences (SAGE).
  • Research, Education, Outreach and Training (REACHOUT).

Components:

• Construction of a polar research vessel:
  • To construct and commission a research-cum-supply vessel for the Antarctic, Arctic, Southern Ocean and Indian Ocean operations.
• Construction of the third research base in Antarctica.
  • A state-of-the-art year-round research base, Bharati, at Larsemann Hills with living space and laboratory facilities.
• Indian scientific endeavours in the Arctic.
• Polar expeditions-Antarctica:
  • Identification of a number of new species of bacteria from the cold habitats of Antarctica
• Replacement of Maitri station.
  • Maitri station, built in 1988-89 was India's second permanent research station in Antarctica as part of the Indian Antarctic Programme
• Understanding the dynamics of the Southern Ocean

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Which of the following statements is/are components of PACER Scheme?

1. Construction of the third research base in Antarctica

2. Understanding the dynamics of the Southern Ocean

3. Construction of a polar research vessel

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1,2 and 3

Answer