The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has congratulated the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) on the successful launch of the South Asia satellite-GSAT-09.

In a message to Shri A.S. Kiran Kumar, Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman of ISRO, the President has said, "My heartiest congratulations to you and the entire team at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), on the successful launch of the South Asia satellite-GSAT-09.

The launch of the South Asia satellite which enables a range of services in the areas of telecommunication and broadcasting will go a long way in meeting the developmental needs of countries of South Asia. I am confident that the project will promote friendship and cooperation and help further cement ties between India and her neighbours.

Kindly convey my greetings to the members of your team of scientists, engineers, technologists and all others associated with this mission. I wish the ISRO continued success in the coming years.”

This release issued at 1725 hrs.