The Centre has appointed V Narayanan as the new Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Secretary of the Department of Space. According to an official order from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, Narayanan will take over the position on January 14, succeeding the current ISRO chairman, S Somanath.

Narayanan’s appointment has been confirmed for a term of two years or until further notice, as per an order issued by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. The order reads, “The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Shri V. Narayanan, Director, Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, Valiamala as Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman, Space Commission for a period of two years with effect from 14.01.2025, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.”

Currently serving as the Director of ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Valiamala, Kerala, V Narayanan is a veteran scientist with nearly 40 years of experience in rocket and spacecraft propulsion. He joined ISRO in 1984 and has held key positions in multiple critical projects.

During the early phase of his career, Narayanan contributed to the development of solid propulsion systems for Sounding Rockets, Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV), and Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). His expertise in propulsion technology has played a pivotal role in advancing ISRO’s launch capabilities.