Rocket Scientist Narayanan Appointed ISRO Chief

Narayanan’s Ascension to ISRO Leadership

India has appointed V. Narayanan, a distinguished rocket scientist, as the new Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Secretary of the Department of Space, effective January 14, 2025. S. Somanath has led ISRO since January 2022. He enhanced the agency’s public engagement and modernized its operations. Narayanan will now take over the leadership from Somanath.

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Narayanan’s Extensive Experience in Rocket Science

Narayanan was born in Melakattu village near Nagercoil in Kanyakumari District. He joined ISRO in 1984 and has nearly four decades of experience in rocket and spacecraft propulsion. He has held various key positions within ISRO. Since January 2018, he has served as the Director of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Valiamala, Kerala. Narayanan has been instrumental in developing cryogenic propulsion systems. He has also contributed significantly to ISRO’s major rocket launches, such as the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) program.

India’s Ambitious Space Goals Under New ISRO Chief

Under Narayanan’s leadership, India aims to bolster its position in the global space arena. The government has set ambitious targets to expand its share of the global space market, currently at about 2%, to 10% by 2030. This includes plans to increase the country’s space economy from $8 billion to $44 billion by 2033. The government has introduced policy reforms that allow 100% foreign direct investment in satellite components and systems and up to 74% in satellite manufacturing, attracting significant investments and driving growth in the sector.

Challenges and Opportunities in India’s Space Sector

Despite a 55% decline in space industry funding in 2024, India’s space sector is poised for a rebound. The government has announced a venture capital fund of 10 billion rupees ($119 million) to support space startups, aiming to stimulate innovation and investment in this capital-intensive sector. Experts remain optimistic about the sector’s growth, anticipating increased funding and development in 2025.

Future Prospects with Narayanan at ISRO’s Helm

Narayanan’s appointment is expected to provide continuity and expertise as ISRO embarks on its next phase of development. With a focus on advancing India’s space capabilities, including plans for crewed spaceflights and the establishment of a space station by 2035, Narayanan’s leadership will be pivotal in achieving these ambitious objectives.