In the rapidly evolving world of space technology, ISRO has captivated both India and the global community with groundbreaking missions like Chandrayaan-3 and Gaganyaan. But as the organization charts new interplanetary paths, it’s increasingly apparent that financial incentives for young engineers and scientists—especially from elite institutions like the IITs—remain limited in government roles.

ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath in a candid chat with India Today at the convocation ceremony of BITS Pilani on November 10, 2024 shed light on why passion, not pay, is the real driving force for those who aspire to join India’s prestigious space agency.

“It is not that we are in competition with the private sector in terms of wages,” said Dr S Somnath.

“ISRO is a government institution and we cannot match the salaries offered by the technology and IT giants of the private sector. But this is a space that is driven by passion.”

For the ISRO chief, contributing to India’s progress in space technology is the real currency for those who choose this path.

EXPANDING SPACE ACTIVITIES THROUGH THE PRIVATE SECTOR

In response to the growing demand for high-paying positions, Somnath shared his vision for a collaborative approach with the private sector, noting that this partnership could bring financial flexibility to the space industry.

“If space activities are viable in the private sector, then naturally there will be higher paying jobs,” he explained. “This way, students with space-related aspirations can access lucrative career paths without relying solely on government positions.”

By encouraging private participation in space, ISRO aims to create an ecosystem that fosters both technological advancement and improved financial prospects.

CONNECTING ACADEMY AND INDUSTRY

The ISRO chief feels that academic institutions must bridge the gap between education and industry. While the IITs are celebrated for producing top graduates, he pointed out that “many other engineering and research programs lack critical components for real-world applicability.”

He explained that the solution lies in building a strong research culture in universities that collaborate with industry. “The teaching-learning process is strong in most colleges,” said Dr S Somnath, “but we need to improve the research side and align it with industry requirements.”

ISRO’s recent collaboration with the Indian Council for Technical Education (AICTE) is a step towards bridging this gap. Under the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) initiative, ISRO has developed a curriculum framework for engineering colleges, enabling them to introduce specialized courses in space science and aerospace engineering.

“IN-SPACe is working with AICTE through an elaborate process of consultation among experts in the field,” he said, adding that the framework can now be adapted by institutions across the country to nurture a pool of skilled talent that aligns with industry standards.

INTERNSHIPS WITH ISRO

For students who want to gain real-world experience, ISRO offers internships at its various centers across India. “You can go to ISRO’s website and find out,” noted Somnath, explaining that the website lists the eligibility, locations and durations of potential trainees. “ISRO is not in one place; it is all over India in different centres, so you have to choose where you want to do it,” he added.

These internships, though limited, are designed to provide meaningful engagement in ISRO’s various projects, enabling students to apply their knowledge in a practical manner.

AUTHORIZING SMALL-TOWN COLLEGES TO CONTRIBUTE TO NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS

Acknowledging the challenges smaller institutions face, Somnath pointed to lack of awareness as a key barrier. “There are hundreds of universities and colleges in this country that have the potential to grow to a higher level,” he said.

However, he noted that “their aspirations are low because they stay at a low level,” which prevents them from realizing their potential. Somnath urged smaller colleges to strengthen their research programs and introduce robust programs that reflect current trends and industry standards.

“Many colleagues don’t even know what the higher possibilities are. They don’t even know how to conduct research,” he said, noting that the role of faculty in these colleges often remains limited to traditional teaching.

“Faculty don’t know how to really connect with industry or how to get sponsors for research, they just know about running classes,” he observed.

By promoting awareness of industry possibilities, ISRO hopes to help such institutions nurture talent that can contribute to India’s scientific achievements.
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Through these initiatives, Somnath envisions an educational landscape that fosters collaboration between academia and industry, creating a dynamic space sector in India. For him, ISRO’s appeal isn’t just about the high stakes of space exploration; it is about inspiring a generation that is driven by passion and purpose, ready to contribute to India’s growth in space and science, even if the journey involves sacrifices along the way.