Rajesh Srinet, Senior Journalist
The news of more than 100 scientists leaving the job from a prestigious organization like Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) within a few months has attracted the attention of the country. ISRO is not just a government institution, but a symbol of India’s scientific capability, technological self-reliance and global prestige. Ambitious missions like Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, Aditya L1 and Gaganyaan have catapulted the organization into the ranks of the world’s leading space organizations. At such a time, if a large number of experienced scientists are leaving the institution, it is not just a normal change of human resources but becomes a matter of serious national concern. It is extremely important to understand the reasons for this situation and find effective solutions in time.
The biggest capital of any scientific institution is its scientists, engineers and researchers. Modern laboratories, advanced equipment and adequate budgets are meaningful only when they are backed by talented and dedicated human resources. It takes many years for a scientist to become proficient in a particular field. He gains experience from many projects and also guides the new generation of scientists with his knowledge. If such people start leaving the organization in large numbers, it is not possible to compensate for their experience immediately. This has a direct impact on the quality of research, pace of projects and future plans.
ISRO is currently working on many important missions. India is preparing to send humans into space through the Gaganyaan mission. Apart from this, the next phase of Chandrayaan, concept of space station, new launch vehicle, satellite technology and many research programs in space science are also in progress. All these projects require highly trained and experienced scientists. If experts continue to leave the organization, there is a natural possibility of project delays, cost overruns and increased technical challenges. This may also affect India’s competitiveness at the international level.
This question is also important that why are scientists leaving their jobs? There can be many reasons behind this. Private space companies offer higher salaries, better facilities, modern work environments and opportunities to move up quickly. The demand for Indian scientists is continuously increasing even at the global level. In many countries and private institutions, more resources and freedom are available for research.
Apart from this, if the promotion process in an organization is slow, administrative pressure is high, freedom of research is limited or it is difficult to balance work and personal life, then talented people start choosing other options, hence it is not enough to express concern only by looking at the incidents of leaving the job, but it is also necessary to identify their root causes.
The government has taken steps towards making the rules for scientists leaving their jobs more stringent. It can be assumed that some rules are necessary in view of sensitive technology, national security and confidentiality of important projects. The aim of the government would also probably be that trained scientists do not leave the institute suddenly and important projects are not disrupted, but merely making the rules stricter cannot be a permanent solution to any problem.
If a person is dissatisfied with the institution, then keeping him detained for a long time merely because of legal or administrative hurdles will neither be in the interest of the institution nor be beneficial for the scientist. Talent cannot be kept tied down, it can be linked by giving respect, opportunity and inspiration.
The real solution is to make institutions like ISRO more attractive for talent. Scientists should be provided with competitive salaries, modern research facilities, excellent laboratories and opportunities for international collaboration commensurate with their contributions. The promotion process should be more transparent and merit based.
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