Modi Government’s Space Policies Push ISRO Into Crisis

India’s space agency ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) is reportedly facing major challenges amid the Modi government’s push to transfer commercial space activities and technological assets to the private sector. According to the BBC, the government has separated commercial rocket manufacturing from ISRO and shifted it toward private companies. Under India’s 2020 space policy, 445 private space companies have reportedly been established, marking a significant expansion of private-sector involvement in the country’s space industry.

The report also says that more than 120 scientists have left ISRO over the past year, including senior scientists associated with major missions such as Chandrayaan-3. Around 120 advanced technologies, along with rights related to the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), have reportedly been transferred to private companies. The head of IN-SPACE has also said that ISRO will no longer manufacture rockets for launching satellites, raising concerns about the future role of the state-run space agency.

Analysts and critics have questioned whether the rapid transfer of strategic technologies and operations to private companies could weaken ISRO’s institutional capacity and scientific workforce. While supporters argue that greater private-sector participation can accelerate India’s commercial space industry, critics say the changes risk undermining a globally recognized scientific institution. The developments have also fueled debate over government influence and political control of India’s scientific and technological institutions.