NEW DELHI: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has categorically rejected speculation that the country’s premier space agency could eventually be privatised, assuring employees that its role and importance will remain intact despite the growing participation of private companies in India’s space sector.
The clarification came after nine employee organisations wrote to ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan, expressing concern over the organisation’s future and seeking clarity on the government’s policy towards greater private participation in space research.
Responding to the concerns, ISRO said there was no question of privatising the organisation. It stressed that opening the space sector to private industry should not be interpreted as an attempt to reduce ISRO’s responsibilities or significance.
According to the agency, increased private participation will allow ISRO to concentrate its scientific and technological expertise on complex, future-oriented space programmes. Private companies, meanwhile, can take responsibility for large-scale production and commercialisation of established and mature technologies.
ISRO also pointed out that the country’s space ecosystem is undergoing structural changes, but these changes do not represent any reduction in the organisation’s importance.
The issue has gained significance following ISRO’s achievements in major missions, including Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, which have strengthened India’s standing in global space research. At the same time, reports of more than 100 scientists and engineers leaving the organisation in recent years had fuelled concerns among employees.
ISRO has already begun working with several private-sector companies. However, the latest assurance from the space agency appears to have eased employee concerns, reinforcing its commitment to remain at the centre of India’s long-term space ambitions.
