In a first, 9 Isro staff bodies seek 'written clarity' on private sector shift

BENGALURU: For the first time since the government began opening India’s space sector to private industry six years ago, nine employee bodies at Isro centres representing thousands of staff under the Department of Space (DoS), have formally raised concerns over the direction and basis of the transition. They have sought written clarification from chairman, space commission, who also serves as secretary, DoS and chairman, Isro.“Private participation in defined commercial activities can coexist with a strong, publicly owned Isro. What cannot be accepted without debate is a policy that reduces Isro to a residual R&D boutique while the realisation of the nation’s launch vehicles and the operation of its launch infrastructure pass out of public hands,” the representation dated Sept 4 and accessed by TOI, reads.Terming technology developed by Isro a national asset, they said its transfer must be transparent, accountable, and consistent with strategic, safety and employment considerations.