© Associated PressIndian Space Research Organisation's satellite GSAT-5P rocket explodes in mid-air shortly after its launch in Sriharikota
The rocket exploded in the first stage after it launched from the Sriharikota space centre. It was carrying a GSAT-5P satellite into orbit.
In April, a rocket on a developmental flight plunged into the Bay of Bengal.
Yashpal, a retired Indian scientist and independent commentator, said other countries have experienced such failures.
"I hope it's just one of those things," Mr Yashpal, who uses just one name, told reporters.
India is planning its first manned space flight in 2016.
An Indian satellite launched in 2008 to orbit the moon was abandoned last year after communication links were cut off and scientists lost control of the satellite.
Source: Press Association
One would think that India, would find a better use for money they are spending on their space program, like perhaps public sanitation, cleaning up the river Ganges, health care. I guess the insanity is not just a western affliction.