Tezzbuzz Desk- Concerns of employees have come to light regarding the future of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and the increasing participation of private companies in the space sector. Nine employee organizations representing different centers of ISRO have sought a written clarification on this entire matter from the Space Commission Chairman. These organizations say that they are not opposed to the participation of private companies in the space sector, but such policies should be implemented with frank discussion and transparency.
Organizations have expressed concern that if ISRO is gradually reduced to only research and development and the responsibility for manufacturing launch vehicles and launch infrastructure is handed over to the private sector, it may impact the existing role and capability of the organization. Employees say that private participation in some commercial activities can go along with a strong government-owned ISRO, but such a policy cannot be accepted without adequate debate.
Demand for transparency on transfer of technology
The employee organizations have called for the technology developed by ISRO to be a national asset and have demanded that the transfer process be made transparent and accountable. He says that before handing over any technology or facility to the private sector, aspects related to strategic capability, national security and employment should be considered.
The organizations said that existing employees should also be informed about such important policies. He believes that it is important to consult and communicate with employees, because policy changes can have a direct impact on their future and the nature of work.
Many questions raised on the role of ISRO
The letter also mentions the statement of IN-SPACe Chairman Pawan Goenka, in which it was said that ISRO will not make launch vehicles in the future. Employee organizations questioned whether this is the official and accepted policy of the Government of India, the Space Commission or the Department of Space. The organizations also want to know whether ISRO will be responsible for the design, development, production, integration, testing and launching of launch vehicles like PSLV, LVM-3 and SSLV in the future. Along with this, he has also sought clarification on the status of transfer of technology, testing services and information related to the launch complex developed from public resources to private operation.
The organizations argue that launch vehicle design and construction, integration, testing, and launch operations are not simply normal manufacturing activities. These form a significant part of ISRO's institutional expertise, technical know-how and strategic capability.
Nine employee organizations together raised their voice
This memorandum has been signed by ISRO Staff Association, SHAR Employees Association, ISRO Staff Association-LPSC, ISRO Staff Association-BBU, ISAC Employees Association, NRSA Employees Union, ISRO Staff Association-IPRC, SAC Employees Welfare Association and Space Employees Association-BBU. These organizations represent thousands of employees working in various centers of ISRO.
Employee organizations have said that their aim is not merely to oppose any policy, but to clarify the position before major changes are made. He has demanded the government and concerned authorities to establish communication with the employees.
Concern about employment also
Employee organizations have expressed apprehension that if ISRO gradually withdraws from activities like launch vehicle and satellite production, there may be less work opportunities for existing employees. He says that in such a situation the employees may be transferred to another place or they may not have enough work.
The organizations also raised the question that if the same work is done by private companies using government technology and resources, then what will be the role of the existing ISRO employees.
At the end of the letter, the employee organizations congratulated ISRO on the success of the GSLV-F17/EOS-05 mission. He described his letter as a step taken in a constructive and democratic spirit. The organizations said that their commitment to ISRO and the national space program remains intact and that is why they want clarity before any permanent policy change. The organizations have also said that after receiving the written reply, they will decide further action and their strategy.