Science TechnologyFriday, 17 July 2026·Hindu Tamil Thisai
ISRO resignation rules tightened after 100+ scientists exit; DoS takes direct control
The Centre has tightened resignation and voluntary retirement rules for ISRO Group A scientists and technical experts working on Gaganyaan and other key missions.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In July 2026, the Union government issued a new circular to all ISRO centres, including Bengaluru’s U.R. Rao Satellite Centre and Thiruvananthapuram’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, tightening resignation and voluntary retirement approvals for Group A scientists working on missions such as Gaganyaan.
Key specifics
- Group A scientists and technical experts in ISRO are covered under the new July 2026 circular.
- Resignation and voluntary retirement letters can no longer be accepted as a routine matter by centre directors.
- The 2020 rule had given centre directors the power to approve such letters at the centre level.
- Final approval now returns to the Department of Space (DoS) under direct control.
- The order applies to major ISRO centres, including U.R. Rao Satellite Centre, Bengaluru, and VSSC, Thiruvananthapuram.
Exam lens
Science & technology policy question, ISRO administration, DoS control, 2020 rule versus 2026 circular, Gaganyaan-linked staffing. TNPSC may ask which authority now approves resignations of key ISRO scientists.