Department of Space Restricts ISRO Scientist Resignations

The Department of Space issued a memorandum on July 14, 2026, restricting the routine approval of resignations and voluntary retirements for Group A scientific and technical personnel at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The directive reverses a 2020 policy by stripping center directors of the authority to approve exits; instead, all applications must be forwarded to the Department of Space for final decision.

This policy shift follows a surge in attrition, with reports that between 100 and 120 scientists resigned in recent months. This includes approximately 80 departures from the U R Rao Satellite Centre and 20 from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. High-profile exits include LVM-3 Project Director Victor Joseph and simulations project manager Aditya Rallapalli. The exodus is attributed to uncompetitive government pay and the growth of India's private space sector.

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan stated that the measures ensure important projects, such as the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme, do not suffer sudden disruptions. Union Minister Jitendra Singh defended the change as being for "administrative reasons." Conversely, Member of Parliament Abhishek Manu Singhvi criticized the move, arguing that the government should address the causes of declining morale and talent loss rather than making it harder for scientists to leave.