9 ISRO Employee Associations Seek Clarity On Reports Of Core Functions Shifting To Private Sector

Nine employee associations representing various Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) centres and units have sought official clarification on reports that some of the space agency’s manufacturing and operational functions could be transferred to private companies and public sector undertakings (PSUs). The representation came days after the successful launch of the GSLV F17-EOS 05 mission.

In a joint representation dated September 4 to Department of Space Secretary and ISRO Chairman V Narayanan, the associations raised concerns over reports and public statements suggesting that activities currently handled by ISRO could gradually move outside the organisation. They referred to remarks attributed to IN-SPACe Chairman Pawan Kumar Goenka at a summit on August 21, where he was reported to have indicated that ISRO could eventually stop manufacturing launch vehicles, with production taken up by private companies or PSUs.

The associations also expressed concern over the impact such a shift could have on recruitment and the future of existing employees. They pointed to vacancies and attrition affecting Group A, B and C posts and sought clarity on sanctioned strength, recruitment and induction plans over the next five to 10 years. They also sought safeguards for serving employees against adverse cadre reviews and any reduction in promotional opportunities.

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The employee bodies further raised concerns about strategic autonomy, quality assurance and the safety culture developed within ISRO if core functions were moved outside the organisation. However, they clarified that their representation was not against Indian industry or the commercialisation of space activities through NewSpace India Limited (NSIL). Their primary demand was for a clear distinction between private-sector participation and any reduction of ISRO’s in-house capabilities.

The associations sought a time-bound written clarification on whether Goenka’s reported remarks reflected an approved government policy or an IN-SPACe outlook. They also requested details on ISRO’s future role in the PSLV, LVM3, SSLV and successor launch vehicles, besides clarification on the proposed role of PSUs. They asked for transparency on how publicly developed technologies, facilities and launch complexes would be transferred to private operations and how NSIL and IN-SPACe would be involved.

The nine associations urged the ISRO chairman to ensure consultation with recognised service associations before any irreversible decisions are taken. They also called for assurances that serving employees’ service conditions and public employment status would remain protected, while seeking structured discussions on the future organisational framework. The associations maintained that their representation was intended to seek clarity and protect the long-term interests of ISRO and the national space programme.

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