Recently, the Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS), a leading laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has handed over critical high-altitude sustenance technologies to the Maharatna PSU Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) during an orientation workshop at PGCIL’s regional headquarters in Jammu. This workshop was organised to accustom employees to 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’s high-altitude sustenance of its workforce during the project. Earlier, DRDO had tied up 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.
Dr. Rajeev Varshney, the Director of DIPAS, presided over the induction program, alongside, Chief General Manager, Mr. Amit Sharma (i/c), of the Pang-Kaithal HVDC Project, PGCIL. Senior scientists from DRDO and officials from PGCIL participated in 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.
