GPS and Navigation — Tech Evolutions

Entry	Year	Description	Impact
NAVIC Operationalization	2018	The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) was declared fully operational, and subsequently rebranded as NAVIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation). This marked a significant milestone, transitioning from a developmental project to a fully functional, independent PNT service provider for India and its surrounding region. It solidified India's position as one of the few nations with its own sovereign navigation system.	Enhanced India's strategic autonomy by providing assured PNT services, reducing reliance on foreign systems. Enabled widespread adoption in various sectors, from defense to civilian applications, and spurred indigenous development of NAVIC-compatible hardware and software. Paved the way for policy mandates on NAVIC integration in devices.
GAGAN Certification	2015	India's GPS Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) system, a Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) jointly developed by ISRO and AAI, received certification for RNP 0.1 (Required Navigation Performance) operations. This made India the fourth nation globally to achieve such a feat, allowing GAGAN to provide highly accurate and reliable navigation services for civil aviation over the Indian airspace.	Significantly improved air safety and efficiency, enabling precision approaches at airports without ground-based navigation aids. Enhanced the accuracy and integrity of GPS signals over India, benefiting various other applications beyond aviation. Demonstrated India's capability in developing advanced navigation augmentation technologies.
Indian Space Policy 2023	2023	The new comprehensive Indian Space Policy 2023 was approved, providing a clear framework for private sector participation and emphasizing strategic autonomy in space. It explicitly highlights the importance of space-based navigation for national security and strategic objectives, reinforcing the mandate for systems like NAVIC.	Provided a robust policy and legal backing for the continued development, modernization, and commercialization of India's navigation satellite capabilities. Encouraged greater private sector involvement in building and utilizing NAVIC-based solutions, fostering innovation and economic growth in the space sector.