A disturbing space flight amid the pandemic.

Context: The recent privatization of Space activities in India can have deteriorating effect on the functioning of ISRO under Department of Space.

Critique of government’s step:

• Bizarreness of timing: India is struggling with pandemic and migrant crisis and taking about ‘space explorations’ by private sector seems to be ill-timed.

• Erosion of Autonomy:  ISRO is a national asset and a key element of the strategic cum geopolitical armament of India. Not be subjected to whimsical actions of government.

• Undermining ISRO’s role:  Technology denial and moratoriums crafted by the West could not stop ISRO from innovating and balancing national interest and space exploration.

• Profiting private sector: If the recent announcements are to be construed as a national policy, then it would be blessing for private sector biggies prying for ISRO’s assets for long.

Way Forward:

• Necessity of Autonomy: The Director of many scientific institutions like Vikram Sarabhai, Satish Dhawan had reserved the rights of independent institutions. However, commission model ensuring limited control of the government is aspiring.

• E.g. Department of Atomic Energy as a government department for administrative purposes, and the Atomic Energy Commission as a policymaking body.

• National Space Policy: should be designed with deliberation with ISRO to avoid policy vacuum that create ambiguities in the business.