The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) issued a clarification regarding rumors of its privatization that circulated on Sunday. The agency clearly stated that privatization will not take place, and the role or importance of ISRO will not diminish.
According to the space agency, increased participation from the private sector will allow ISRO to focus more attention on advanced technologies and India's next-generation space programs.
This statement came amid a letter sent by nine employees' unions to ISRO head V. Narayanan on September 4, demanding clarification on plans to transfer production and operational tasks to private entities. This dispute began after comments by Pawan Goyank, chairman of IN-SPACe, on August 21.
Goyank allegedly stated that in the future, ISRO would no longer manufacture launch vehicles, and this work would be carried out by private companies or Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
What did ISRO state?
The statement published by ISRO on X says that the organization's role will strengthen in the areas where scientific expertise is most critically needed in the future. These areas include advanced research and development, manned spaceflights, next-generation launch systems, deep space and planetary missions, as well as strategic national capabilities.
The space agency also reported that it will continue to develop advanced payloads, sensors, propulsion systems, and other critical technologies for communication, navigation, and Earth observation. Meanwhile, the production of technologies and systems that ISRO has already developed and regularly produces may be increased through industry and PSUs. These may include developed launch vehicles, regular satellites, and other established systems.
Focus on Lunar Missions
According to ISRO, such a system will enable scientists and resources to concentrate on larger future missions. These missions include establishing an Indian space station by 2035, sending Indian astronauts to the Moon by 2040, developing next-generation reusable launch systems, and conducting permanent missions to the Moon and other planets.
The unions pointed out in their letter that the technologies developed by ISRO are national assets, and their transfer must be done transparently and accountably. They also demanded that strategic needs, security, and impact on employees be taken into consideration.
Meanwhile, Pawan Goyank, chairman of IN-SPACe, stated on Sunday that ISRO's role is by no means diminishing, and it will remain the backbone of the Indian space sector. He noted that to achieve the goal of 50 launches annually by 2030, ISRO and private companies must work together, as one organization cannot achieve such a massive goal alone.