Amid reports of more than 100 scientists submitting their research papers in recent months, the Space Ministry has reportedly issued a memorandum to the major centers of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), directing them not to accept resignations or requests for voluntary retirement from scientists and engineers working on key missions like Gaganyaan.
The memorandum issued on Tuesday is primarily directed to the scientific and technical staff of Group A. The ministry has directed ISRO centers not to routinely accept resignations or requests for voluntary retirement from such employees, news agency PTI reported.
“Recently, it has been observed that there is a spate of requests for voluntary retirement and resignation of Group ‘A’ scientific and technical staff of ISRO including those associated with the prestigious Gaganyaan and other important assignments/projects severely affecting the implementation of projects of national importance,” the note said.
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“In view of this, it has been decided that requests for voluntary retirement and resignation submitted by scientific and technical personnel associated with Gaganyan and other important assignments/projects may not be accepted as a matter of routine,” he added.
The memo added that any applications from scientists and technical staff, even at or below the rank of scientist and engineer, should be referred to the Department of Space along with the director’s “clear recommendations” for a final decision.
The memorandum was received by Ur Rao Satellite Center (URSC) and Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC).
Why this step?
This comes after reports emerged that more than 100 scientists and engineers submitted resignation requests through various centers in the country during the past month.
While the space agency has not published the exact number, TOI reported that more than 80 scientists have left the Ur Rao Satellite Center (URSC) in Bengaluru in Karnataka, while around 20 departures have been reported from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.
Acknowledging the mass resignations, ISRO chief V Narayana told the newspaper that the space organization was ready to deal with the departures.
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“Yes, a lot of people go, but this is part of every organization. This step [memorandum] This is not just about retention, but also ensuring that important projects are not suddenly affected. But if one person continues, someone else will take responsibility. We are taking care of it,” he was quoted as saying.
