The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has reportedly been hit by mass resignations with at least 100 scientists submitting their papers in recent months, prompting the Center to step in to tighten rules around voluntary exit and retirement, especially for those working on critical missions like Gaganyaan.
The Center has directed Isro centers not to accept resignations or requests for voluntary retirement from Group A scientific and technical staff associated with Gaganyaan and other key assignments, according to an internal document issued on July 14, accessed by India Today.
The memorandum also adds that all resignation and retirement requests will now be referred to the Ministry of Space.
What led to this move?
According to media reports, this step comes from the center after about 100 scientists submitted their resignations.
While the Ministry of Space has not officially revealed the number of departures Times Of India Multiple sources at Isro said that between 100 and 120 scientists may have resigned in recent months.
Nearly 80 scientists have left the Ur Rao Satellite Center (URSC) in Bengaluru in Karnataka, while around 20 scientists have been reported from Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, according to the report. While sources confirmed the resignation of 100 people, they added that the number could reach about 120, TOI reported.
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Acknowledging the mass resignations, ISRO chief V Narayana told the newspaper that the space organization was ready to deal with the departures.
“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.
