How to use this glossary
India’s space and defence achievements are heavily examined. Learn the agencies, the launch vehicles and the key systems together.
ISRO
Space agency
DRDO
Defence R&D
PSLV/GSLV
Launch vehicles
NAVIC
Navigation
Agencies and organisations
| Abbr. | Full form |
|---|---|
| ISRO | Indian Space Research Organisation |
| DRDO | Defence Research and Development Organisation |
| HAL | Hindustan Aeronautics Limited |
| BEL | Bharat Electronics Limited |
| DAE | Department of Atomic Energy |
| BARC | Bhabha Atomic Research Centre |
| NASA / ESA | National Aeronautics and Space Administration / European Space Agency |
Launch vehicles and missions
| Abbr. | Full form |
|---|---|
| PSLV | Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle |
| GSLV | Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle |
| NAVIC | Navigation with Indian Constellation |
| GSAT | Geostationary Satellite (communication) |
| IRNSS | Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System |
| SSLV | Small Satellite Launch Vehicle |
Forces and systems
| Abbr. | Full form |
|---|---|
| INS | Indian Naval Ship |
| IAF | Indian Air Force |
| LCA | Light Combat Aircraft (Tejas) |
| ICBM | Intercontinental Ballistic Missile |
| ABM | Anti-Ballistic Missile |
| CDS | Chief of Defence Staff |
UPSC angle
Know ISRO/DRDO and the launch-vehicle pair (PSLV vs GSLV), plus NAVIC/IRNSS. These recur in science & current-affairs questions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the full form of ISRO and DRDO?
ISRO = Indian Space Research Organisation; DRDO = Defence Research and Development Organisation.
What do PSLV and GSLV stand for?
PSLV = Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle; GSLV = Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle.
What is the full form of NAVIC?
Navigation with Indian Constellation — India’s regional satellite navigation system.
What does CDS stand for?
Chief of Defence Staff.