Centre's nod for 30 PSLV, 10 GSLV operational flights

The Centre on Wednesday loosened its purse strings for the space programme by sanctioning Rs 10,469.20 crore for the launch of 30 PSLV and 10 GSLV Mark III operational flights over the next four years.

The decision of the Union Cabinet is expected to enable Isro to launch heavier four-tonne satellites using the GSLV Mark III rocket from the launch port at Sriharikota and also offer the facility to put foreign satellites in orbit.

The Cabinet sanctioned Rs 4,338.20 crore for 10 GSLV Mark III operational flights, marking the first phase of the continuation programme for the 2019-24 period.

“This will be a big leap forward as we will not have to depend on foreign spaceports for launch of heavier satellites,” Jitendra Singh, Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, told reporters here.

The Union Cabinet also approved Rs 6,131 crore for the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle Continuation Programme that includes 30 operational flights of ISRO's warhorse rocket that has put in orbit a number of satellites as well as India's maiden missions to moon and Mars.

The PSLV programme is expected to meet the launch requirements of satellites for earth observation, navigation and space sciences and will also ensure the continuity of production by the Indian industry, an official statement said here.

Chandrayaan-II

It would enable Isro to undertake eight operational flights of the PSLV every year with maximum participation from the Indian industry. The approval for the PSLV programme will cover operational flights of the rocket from November 2019 to July 2023.

With the recent successful launch on April 12, PSLV has completed three developmental and 43 operational flights.

“Besides the satellite launches, India should look forward to the upcoming Chandrayaan-II launch in October as it will be a significant achievement in space programme for the country,” Singh said.