Modi government strangulating, emasculating ISRO: Congress
The Congress party has criticized the Modi government's push for the privatization of India's space sector, specifically regarding ISRO's role. They argue that transferring satellite assets and spaceports to private companies undermines the institution's decades of scientific achievement.
Why it matters
The debate reflects a broader political conflict over the role of state-run institutions versus private enterprise in India's strategic sectors.
The Congress on Monday (August 24, 2026) slammed the Modi government for its "aggressive privatisation agenda" for the space programme and asked why ISRO should be "strangulated and emasculated" for encouraging private startups.
Congress general secretary for communications, Jairam Ramesh , said there have been news reports over the past couple of days about ISRO's future role in our country's space programme.
"This has raised legitimate concerns given its capacities, capabilities, and competencies built up so methodically and painstakingly over the past six decades thanks to the vision, dedication, and leadership of Vikram Sarabhai , Satish Dhawan, Brahm Prakash, UR Rao, APJ Abdul Kalam, and so many other distinguished scientists and technologists," Mr. Ramesh said on X.
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