V Narayanan Appointed as ISRO Chairman and Secretary, Department of Space

New Delhi: V Narayanan, a distinguished scientist and the current head of the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Secretary, Department of Space. He will assume office on January 14, succeeding S Somanath.
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet announced the decision on January 7 confirming a two-year tenure for Mr. Narayanan. He will also serve as the Chairman of the Space Commission.

Narayanan has been instrumental in advancing India's space capabilities, particularly in the development of the cryogenic engine—a critical technology that India achieved despite initial global restrictions. Under his leadership, the LPSC has made significant strides in developing liquid, semi-cryogenic, and cryogenic propulsion systems for launch vehicles, as well as chemical and electric propulsion systems for satellites.

The LPSC also oversees the development of control systems for launch vehicles and transducers for space system health monitoring. In addition, Mr. Narayanan chairs the Project Management Council-Space Transportation System (PMC-STS), which governs decisions in ISRO’s launch vehicle projects. He also leads the National Level Human Rated Certification Board (HRCB) for Gaganyaan, India’s ambitious human spaceflight mission.

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Speaking to NDTV from Thiruvananthapuram, Narayanan expressed his commitment to elevating ISRO to greater heights. “We have a clear roadmap for India, and I hope to take ISRO to new levels of achievement, leveraging the immense talent within the organisation,” he said.

Narayanan’s appointment marks a new chapter in ISRO’s journey, as the organisation continues its mission to advance India’s space exploration and technological prowess on the global stage.