This is a good first step.
The GSLV has been notoriously difficult to get right for ISRO.
Next step is to get the Cryogenic Upper stage to actually provide the critical thrust that will finally power it into a GesSyncronous orbit. On this mission it was bolted on but passive.
The only down side is that a country that can launch a payload into orbit, can launch that payload into an orbit that intersects the planet (effectively making it an ICBM). You really want such countries to be run by reasonably stable governments (I know you don't get to choose but still). I think India having this capability is great, Pakistan? Not so much, Iran? Probably even less excited, and North Korea? Not excited at all.
The only down side is that a country that can launch a payload into orbit, can launch that payload into an orbit that intersects the planet (effectively making it an ICBM).
This is exactly what the original space race was all about. All the launch platforms up until Saturn were for nuclear launch.
Of course, and the trick is monitor payload size, getting 500kg into Low Earth Orbit doesn't help your nuclear ambitions at all, but getting 5,000kg into LEO does.
ultimate goal of GSLV itself is to become the cost reliable option for geostationary launches. until a few years back, India and other nations had to rely on extremely expensive (comparatively) options.
The first goal is increased payload delivery and second goal is for manned missions - the CARE module is also part of the test which would be the space capsules ISRO would use.
Animated flag gifs are unfortunately a part of many Indian websites, especially in many research and/or government organizations. Don't let them make you think any less of the credibility, its just a cultural thing.
They just launched a rocket into space which made it's way back successfully, and as designed.. on their first try. The animated gifs don't contribute much towards credibility when the achievements are this monumental.
Next step is to get the Cryogenic Upper stage to actually provide the critical thrust that will finally power it into a GesSyncronous orbit. On this mission it was bolted on but passive.