Nuclear Energy Mission for India

Nuclear Energy Mission for Developed India

Overview

• Objective: Support India's vision for a developed nation and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
• Target: Achieve 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047.
• Budget Announcement: Nuclear Energy Mission declared in the Union Budget for 2025-26.

Key Targets and Developments

• Indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Development and operation of at least five SMRs by 2033.
  • Types of Reactors Under Development:
    • BSMR-200: 220 MW, theoretical approval received.
    • SMR-55: 55 MW, theoretical approval received.
    • HTGCR: 5 MW thermal capacity for hydrogen production.

Legislative Framework

• Peace Act, 2025: Enacted to facilitate the Nuclear Energy Mission, allowing private sector participation in nuclear energy.
• Regulatory Framework: The Nuclear Regulatory Board will gain statutory status to enhance oversight and operational independence.

Capacity Goals

• Current Capacity: 8.78 GW.
• Projected Capacity:
  • Expected to reach approximately 22 GW by 2031-32.
  • Additional 32 GW from indigenous Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) and Light Water Reactors (LWR) post-2032.
  • Remaining 46 GW to be developed through various commercial models involving public sector, state governments, and private entities.

Safety and Compliance

• Safety Standards: Emphasis on safety and security across all nuclear operations, including site selection and design.
• Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with the Atomic Energy (Radioactive Waste Management) Rules, 1987.
• Waste Management: Procedures for handling radioactive waste are in place, ensuring public and environmental safety.

Environmental Monitoring

• Conducted by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) through Environmental Survey Laboratories (ESL).

International Cooperation and Technology Development

• BARC is actively working with Indian industries for knowledge sharing and technical cooperation to promote self-reliance in nuclear technology.

Conclusion

The Nuclear Energy Mission represents a significant step towards enhancing India's energy security and contributing to global climate goals while ensuring safety and public participation in the nuclear sector.