DRDO Transfers High-Altitude Sustenance Technologies to Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd

The Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS), a leading laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) handed over critical high-altitude sustenance technologies to the Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL) during an orientation workshop on September 21, 2024, at PGCIL’s regional headquarters in Jammu. This workshop was organised to prepare employees for high-altitude operations as part of the 5000 MW Pang-Kaithal High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Project in Ladakh.

The Pang-Kaithal HVDC Project, located at an altitude of 15,760 feet, is a significant step towards energy security in the region of Ladakh and the wider integration of solar power into India’s national grid. The technologies transferred by DIPAS will support PGCIL in the high-altitude sustenance of its workforce during the project.

Earlier, DRDO signed a MoU with PGCIL to provide technical knowledge on high-altitude induction and sustenance. DIPAS, known for its pioneering work in high-altitude research, has previously formulated acclimatisation protocols for the Indian Army in the Himalayan region. The laboratory has developed a range of solutions for high-altitude conditions, including nutritional ration scales, protective clothing, non-conventional energy-based shelters, and cold-injury prevention creams.

Director of DIPAS Dr. Rajeev Varshney chaired the induction program, alongside, Chief General Manager Shri Amit Sharma (i/c) of the Pang-Kaithal HVDC Project, PGCIL. Senior scientists from DRDO and officials from PGCIL were present at the workshop.

Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, Dr. Samir V Kamat congratulated the DIPAS team for their collaboration with PGCIL on this project of national importance.