Why in NEWS
The Union Budget 2025–26 set a target of achieving 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047, positioning nuclear energy as central to Viksit Bharat and India’s net-zero emissions goal by 2070. Major reforms are needed to unlock nuclear power’s full potential.
Key Terms and Concepts
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| SMRs (Small Modular Reactors) | Compact nuclear reactors (up to 300 MW), factory-built, scalable, and ideal for remote/off-grid areas. |
| CLNDA, 2010 | Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act; assigns liability to both operator and supplier in case of nuclear accidents. |
| AERB | Atomic Energy Regulatory Board; ensures nuclear safety but lacks full statutory autonomy. |
| NSG | Nuclear Suppliers Group; India is not a member, limiting access to nuclear fuel trade. |
| PFBR | Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor, Kalpakkam; a key indigenous nuclear tech project. |
News Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Goal | Increase nuclear capacity from 8.18 GW (2024) to 100 GW (2047). |
| Historical Roots | Started with Apsara (1956) and Tarapore (1963); vision by Dr. Homi Bhabha. |
| Global Commitment | India backed COP28 pledge to triple global nuclear energy capacity. |
| Major Players | Partnerships with France (Jaitapur), US (Kovvada), and ongoing indigenous efforts like PHWRs and PFBR. |
Significance of Nuclear Energy for India
| Area | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Energy Security | Reliable, round-the-clock clean energy to meet India’s quadrupling energy demand by 2047. |
| Industrial Support | Stable power for industries (steel, data, cement); supports hydrogen and desalination projects. |
| Strategic Leverage | Indigenous tech like PFBR improves geopolitical bargaining power. |
| Climate Goals | Helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels and meet net-zero targets by 2070. |
| Disaster Resilience | Nuclear plants offer consistent power during natural or geopolitical disruptions. |
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Snapshot
| Type | Power | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Micro Reactors | 1–20 MW | Mobile, fits on truck, ideal for remote use. |
| SMRs | 20–300 MW | Modular, factory-built, scalable for industries or cities. |
| Full-size Reactors | 300+ MW | Baseline power for national grid, high-capacity. |
Key Challenges in India’s Nuclear Power Sector
| Challenge | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Restrictions | Atomic Energy Act (1962) restricts nuclear generation to public sector; blocks private entry. |
| Supplier Liability | CLNDA (2010) imposes dual liability, deterring global players. |
| High Costs | Indigenous PHWRs cost ~$2 million/MW, much higher than coal or renewables. |
| Fuel Constraints | India has limited uranium and is not in the NSG, slowing access. |
| Regulatory Weakness | AERB lacks statutory autonomy, reducing oversight credibility. |
| Waste Management | No deep geological repository for long-term high-level waste disposal. |
Steps to Boost Nuclear Power in India
| Area | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Legal Reforms | Amend Atomic Energy Act to allow private JV models; revise CLNDA to limit supplier liability and align with CSC, 1997. |
| Regulatory Revamp | Grant statutory status to AERB for independent oversight. |
| Financing Boost | Label nuclear energy as “renewable” for green bonds, tax breaks, climate finance. |
| FDI Policy | Allow up to 49% FDI in nuclear projects with Indian control. |
| Accelerate Projects | Fast-track Jaitapur (France), Kovvada (US); standardize Bharat SMRs and deploy 5 units by 2033. |
| Fuel Assurance | Long-term uranium deals with Canada, Kazakhstan, Australia; invest in thorium reactors. |
| Domestic Supply Chains | Build nuclear industrial parks and localize components. |
In a nutshell
Memory Code – “P-O-W-E-R-S”
- P – Private Participation
- O – Oversight Reform (AERB)
- W – Waive Liability Burdens
- E – Enable Green Financing
- R – Reactor Rollout & Fuel Security
- S – Scale Indigenous Solutions (SMRs, PFBR)
Prelims Practice Questions
- Which of the following best defines a Small Modular Reactor (SMR)?
A) A fossil fuel-based power plant
B) A mobile reactor over 1000 MW capacity
C) A compact, scalable nuclear reactor up to 300 MW
D) A type of solar thermal energy plant - Why is India unable to fully access international nuclear fuel markets?
A) India lacks uranium
B) India is not a member of NSG
C) India has not signed any nuclear treaties
D) India does not operate nuclear reactors - Which law restricts private sector participation in India’s nuclear energy sector?
A) CLNDA, 2010
B) Electricity Act, 2003
C) Atomic Energy Act, 1962
D) Environment Protection Act, 1986
Mains Questions
- Discuss the significance of nuclear energy in India’s energy transition and development goals. What reforms are necessary to unlock its full potential? 10 Marks (GS3 – Energy, Infrastructure)
- Evaluate the role of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in India’s quest for energy security and decentralised development. 10 Marks (GS3 – Science & Technology, Economy)
Answer Key – Prelims
| Q.No | Answer | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | C | SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors under 300 MW, designed for modular and decentralized use. |
| 2 | B | India’s NSG non-membership limits its access to global nuclear fuel suppliers. |
| 3 | C | The Atomic Energy Act (1962) restricts nuclear power generation to the government. |
