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INDIA’S NUCLEAR SECTOR Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced a historic policy shift to open India's tightly controlled nuclear energy sector to private participation, mirroring the successful reforms in the space industry. This move is aimed at boosting the nation's energy security, fostering innovation, and meeting India's long-term clean energy goals. KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF PM MODI’S SPEECH • Private Sector Entry: For the first time since the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, private companies will be allowed to invest and participate in the nuclear power sector. This is a significant departure from the previous state-controlled monopoly held by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). • Focus on Advanced Technologies: The reforms aim to create opportunities in developing and deploying new technologies, specifically in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and advanced reactors, which are considered crucial for the future of nuclear power. • Energy Security and Clean Energy Goals: PM Modi emphasised that this reform will strengthen India's energy security and technological leadership. It aligns with India's commitment to generate 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy by 2030 and achieve a target of 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047. • Legislative Changes: To facilitate private involvement, the government is preparing to table the Atomic Energy Bill, 2025, in the Winter Session of Parliament. Amendments to the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act are also planned to address liability concerns that have deterred private and foreign investors in the past. • Research and Innovation: The government is committed to providing maximum opportunities for the nation's youth in research and innovation, including a ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development, and Innovation Fund. INDIA’S NUCLEAR SECTOR • Context: In March 2025, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi praised India’s nuclear sector for being one of the most dynamic globally. • India is increasing its cooperation with the IAEA on nuclear technology, safety, and security. KEY HIGHLIGHTS • Global Recognition: Grossi highlighted India's growing role in nuclear energy, especially in Asia. India is collaborating closely with the IAEA on safety, technology, and regulations. • Diplomatic Engagements: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Grossi during the Raisina Dialogue 2025, discussing nuclear safety and non-proliferation, highlighting India’s role in nuclear diplomacy. • Workforce Development: India’s efforts in training nuclear experts were praised, with the IAEA collaborating with India’s Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and the Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP) to build a skilled workforce, including the launch of a new Nuclear Engineering Course. • Raisina Dialogue 2025: The dialogue showcased India’s growing importance in global nuclear discussions. BUDGETARY FOCUS Union Budget 2025-26: Nuclear Energy in India’s Future • Objective: Strengthening nuclear capabilities as part of the long-term energy strategy for a sustainable and developed India (Viksit Bharat). The government aims to increase nuclear power capacity to 100 GW by 2047. Key Budget Highlights: • Nuclear Energy Mission: ₹20,000 crore allocated for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) R&D to build five indigenous SMRs by 2033. • Policy Reforms: Amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act to encourage private sector involvement. • Private Sector Partnerships: Collaborations on Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) and SMRs, focusing on cost-effective energy solutions for industries like steel and aluminium. INDIA’S NUCLEAR CAPACITY EXPANSION • Objective: Increase nuclear power from 8,180 MW to 22,480 MW by 2031-32. • New Projects: 10 new reactors in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. Notable project: Kovvada Plant (6 x 1208 MW) in Andhra Pradesh, in partnership with the USA. #indianuclearenergy #nuclearreforms #pmmodi #cleanenergyindia #privatesectorinnuclear #smallmodularreactors #energysecurity #atomicenergyact #upsccurrentaffairs #sustainableenergy #makeinindia #nuclearinnovation #indiaenergypolicy #smrindia #viksitbharat 👉 Join Our WhatsApp Channel- https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaaGAqPCxoAugdgpyH41 For any Query- Call Now: 📞 8988885050 or 8988886060 Email: 📩 info@vajiraoinstitute.com 🌐 Visit: www.vajiraoinstitute.com Registration is Now Open for both online and offline batches in 2025. Hurry up, limited seats. 📌 Follow us on Social Media: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/vajiraoinstitute/ Twitter - https://x.com/Vajiraoandreddy LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/school/vajirao-and-reddy-institute-delhi/ Pinterest - https://in.pinterest.com/vajiraoandreddy/