Department of Space Records Highest Job Vacancy Rate in 25 Years

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The Department of Space (DoS) recorded its highest vacancy rate in 25 years, with almost 28% of sanctioned posts staying unfilled during 2025-26.

The Department of Space (DoS) is the top government body that creates India's space policy and manages ISRO along with other space research organisations under the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).

Out of 20,269 sanctioned positions, around 5,632 posts are currently empty, leaving total staffing at 72.2%, which is the lowest level in 25 years.
The total employee count dropped steadily from 17,222 in 2019-20 to 14,637 in 2025-26, even though the approved post strength remained almost unchanged.
Scientists, engineers, and technical staff are affected the most, and these technical professionals make up nearly three-fourths of the entire workforce.
This shortage happens at a critical time when India is executing key programs like Gaganyaan, NGLV, Chandrayaan follow-up missions, Mars and Venus probes, and a proposed space station.
To handle this issue, the department started recruiting for more than 2,300 positions and aims to complete appointments before the end of 2026.

Continuous shortage of skilled staff can delay the timely completion of India's flagship space projects and strategic national security missions.
This situation highlights the urgent need to speed up hiring, provide better career growth, and retain experienced scientific talent within government research institutions.