Parliamentary panel reviews Gaganyaan, space and science projects in Bengaluru
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment, Forests and Climate Change has completed a multi-day review of key scientific facilities in Bengaluru, including the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The committee, led by Chairperson and Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Medha Vishram Kulkarni, arrived in the city on August 20 and visited the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), and the National Institute of Data Science and AI (CSIR-NIDSA) over the following days.
At the ISRO headquarters and the Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC), the committee reviewed the current status of Gaganyaan, India's first human spaceflight mission. Members were briefed on the mission's preparedness, including crew training, system integration, and launch schedules. The committee also interacted with ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan and other senior scientists and engineers. At the UR Rao Satellite Centre, they examined the planning and readiness for ISRO's upcoming missions.
During the visit to the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Dr. Kulkarni chaired a review meeting focusing on India's progress in astronomy, astrophysics, and solar physics, as well as upcoming telescope projects. Discussions centred on strengthening research infrastructure and ensuring policy support for scientific work. “We also explored ways to strengthen research infrastructure and ensure policy support, empowering our scientists with the resources needed to lead global space missions,” Dr. Kulkarni said after the meeting.
At the National Aerospace Laboratories, the committee reviewed ongoing work on India's civil aircraft development programmes. Scientists briefed members on the capabilities of the HANSA-NG trainer aircraft and the progress of an indigenous passenger aircraft designed for regional connectivity. The review covered technical milestones, certification processes, and broader implications for India's aerospace ecosystem.
At the CSIR-National Institute of Data Science and AI, the committee assessed developments in high-performance computing, the National Data Grid, and practical applications of artificial intelligence. Members were shown how data modelling can support early weather alerts, strengthen cybersecurity, and improve citizen services. Dr. Kulkarni noted, “Had a very productive discussion with senior officials from DSIR and the scientific team at the institute. We went through their progress in high-performance computing, the National Data Grid and practical AI applications, especially how data modeling can help with early weather alerts, stronger cybersecurity and simpler citizen services.”
The committee's visit underscores Parliament's oversight role in India's scientific and technological advancement. By directly reviewing projects at leading research institutions, the panel aims to identify gaps in funding, infrastructure, and policy that could affect the country's ambitions in space exploration, aviation, and data science. The findings are expected to inform future recommendations to the government.
These reviews come at a time when India is expanding its space capabilities, with plans for a space station, lunar missions, and increased private sector participation. Similarly, the development of indigenous aircraft and AI systems is seen as critical to national self-reliance. The committee's scrutiny is part of a broader effort to ensure that public investments yield tangible results and that scientists receive the support needed to compete globally.
The panel's visit concluded with a summary of observations and suggestions, which will be compiled into a report for Parliament. While no immediate announcements were made, the interactions are likely to shape future budgetary allocations and policy decisions in the science and technology sector.
