The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has firmly rejected reports that it is being privatised or that its role in India’s space programme is being reduced.
The clarification came after a series of reports about plans to move more rocket and satellite manufacturing, and potentially parts of launch operations, from ISRO to private industry.
Nine ISRO employee associations had also sought formal answers from Chairman V Narayanan on where the transition was heading.
In its September 6 statement, ISRO said the reports had led to “speculations and misinformation” and described claims of an attempt to privatise the organisation or reduce its importance as baseless.
It added that ISRO would remain the country’s principal institution for advanced space research, technology development, strategic and national missions, space science and exploration, and critical technologies.
