Question
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Indian Space Research Organisation’s space programme?
Answer
ISRO’s space program has been instrumental in advancing India’s technological capabilities and contributing to national development. However, like any large-scale initiative, it has its advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages:
Economic and Social Development: ISRO has significantly contributed to socioeconomic development through advancements in broadcasting, communications, meteorology, and remote sensing, which have exceeded the costs involved (Murthi, Sankar and Madhusudhan, 2007; Murthi and Shoba, 2010).
Cost-Effectiveness: The satellites and launch vehicles developed by ISRO are known for being cost-effective, providing a competitive edge in the global space market (Murthi, Sankar and Madhusudhan, 2007; Ghosal and Krishna, 2024).
Technological Innovation and Autonomy: ISRO has developed state-of-the-art satellite systems and launch vehicles, promoting technology transfer and collaboration with SMEs, which enhances innovation and economic growth (Murthi and Shoba, 2010).
Strategic and Security Benefits: The program has strategic importance, as evidenced by India’s anti-satellite test, which enhances national security and positions India as a significant player in space defense (Lele, 2022).
International Collaboration: ISRO’s projects, such as the proposed Indian Space Station, foster international collaboration and scientific research, contributing to global space exploration efforts (G, 2023).
Disadvantages:
Technological Challenges and Delays: Missions like Gaganyaan have faced delays due to the need for indigenous technology development and challenges in acquiring affordable international technology (Ghosal and Krishna, 2024; G, 2023).
Competition and Market Pressures: ISRO faces competition from global players like SpaceX, which offers similar services at lower costs due to advanced technologies like reusable rockets (Ghosal and Krishna, 2024).
Resource and Capacity Constraints: While outsourcing to private sector companies can expand capabilities, the development of necessary technology and know-how remains a time-consuming process (Ghosal and Krishna, 2024).
Conclusion:
ISRO’s space program is a cornerstone of India’s technological and economic development, offering significant advantages in cost-effectiveness, innovation, and strategic security. However, it faces challenges such as technological delays and competition from global space agencies. Balancing these factors is crucial for ISRO’s continued success and contribution to both national and international space exploration.
References
Murthi, K., Sankar, U., & Madhusudhan, H., 2007. Organisational systems, commercialization and cost-benefit analysis of Indian space programme. Current Science, 93, pp. 1812-1822.
Lele, A., 2022. Indian Space Force: A Strategic Inevitability. Space Policy. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.spacepol.2022.101526
Ghosal, D., & Krishna, M., 2024. ISRO: moving heaven and earth to put humans in space. Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies. https://doi.org/10.1108/eemcs-08-2024-0336
Murthi, K., & Shoba, T., 2010. Technology transfer trends in Indian space programme. Acta Astronautica, 67, pp. 942-946. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.ACTAASTRO.2010.04.021
G, I., 2023. A Comprehensive Overview of ISRO’s Ambitious Space Station Project and Collaborative Endeavors. Acceleron Aerospace Journal. https://doi.org/10.61359/11.2106-2323
