About this stamp
The Satellite Instructional Television Experiment (SITE) commenced on August 1, 1975. This year-long initiative, undertaken by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in collaboration with All India Radio (AIR), aims to broadcast instructional television programs via satellite. The Satellite Applications Technology Satellite (ATS-F), provided by the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), facilitates these broadcasts.
SITE is designed to reach remote rural areas, particularly those underserved by traditional communication methods, by delivering educational TV programs without relying on ground-based TV relay stations. The programs, focused on agriculture, health, hygiene, family planning, nutrition, and primary education, are transmitted to the satellite from the prime earth station at the Space Applications Centre, ISRO, Ahmedabad. The satellite then retransmits the content to ISRO-designed community TV receivers in approximately 2,400 villages across Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, and Rajasthan.
Additionally, national programs transmitted via the satellite are rebroadcast to standard TV sets in more developed areas around Delhi, Amritsar, and Ahmedabad, while simultaneously reaching the 2,400 villages. The Kaira District, adjacent to Ahmedabad, receives specially tailored programs aimed at this densely populated and agriculturally progressive region. This aspect of the experiment provides an opportunity to assess how television can enhance development in areas with relatively advanced infrastructure.
SITE will offer valuable insights and experience regarding the technical, managerial, financial, and program production requirements necessary to design a viable national satellite TV system. To commemorate this significant event, the Posts and Telegraphs Department is proud to issue a special postage stamp, marking a milestone of national importance.
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