The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), through its premier laboratory, the Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS), has transferred critical high-altitude sustenance technologies to the Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL). This transfer took place during an orientation workshop held on 21 September 2024 at PGCIL’s regional headquarters in Jammu.
The workshop was organized to prepare PGCIL employees for operations in high-altitude regions as part of the ambitious 5000 MW Pang-Kaithal High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Project in Ladakh. This project, situated at an elevation of 15,760 feet, represents a major milestone in ensuring energy security in Ladakh while integrating solar power into India's national grid.
The high-altitude sustenance technologies handed over by DIPAS will assist PGCIL’s workforce in adapting to and working efficiently in the extreme conditions associated with the project site. These technologies are the result of years of research conducted by DIPAS, which has previously developed acclimatization protocols for the Indian Army operating in the Himalayan region.
Earlier, DRDO had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PGCIL to provide technical expertise on high-altitude induction and sustenance. DIPAS has been at the forefront of high-altitude research, developing solutions such as nutritional ration scales, protective clothing, non-conventional energy-based shelters, and cold-injury prevention creams, all of which are essential for operations in extreme climates.
The workshop was chaired by Dr. Rajeev Varshney, Director of DIPAS, alongside Shri Amit Sharma, Chief General Manager (i/c) of the Pang-Kaithal HVDC Project, PGCIL. Senior scientists from DRDO and officials from PGCIL were also in attendance.
Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, lauded the DIPAS team for their collaboration with PGCIL on this vital national project, emphasizing the importance of such partnerships in addressing India’s energy and defence needs in high-altitude areas. (PR)