STATE TIMES NEWS
NEW DELHI: “When Homi Bhabha launched India’s Nuclear programme, there was widespread scepticism about India’s allegedly hidden designs, and Homi Bhabha had sought to clear the air saying that “India’s Nuclear programme was dedicated to peaceful purposes”. Today, Homi Bhabha’s pledge stands vindicated by PM Narendra Modi with the launch of “Nuclear Mission” to meet India’s increasing requirements through environment friendly, clean energy.
The Union Government has announced a groundbreaking nuclear energy mission aimed at meeting India’s growing energy demands while ensuring a clean and stable power source.
This was stated here on Friday in the Rajya Sabha by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh who emphasised that the mission will be a defining moment in India’s energy history, aligning with the vision of nuclear pioneer Homi Bhabha.
Dr. Jitendra highlighted that the recently announced nuclear mission aims to generate 100 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear energy by 2047, constituting 10% of India’s total energy needs. To achieve this, the government has taken a bold step by opening up the nuclear sector to private players, a move that was previously considered unthinkable.
“This is a historic decision that breaks past taboos. The nuclear program has traditionally operated behind a veil of secrecy, but under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we have now paved the way for private sector participation,” Dr. Jitendra stated.
A key focus of the mission is the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which range from 16 MW to 300 MW in capacity. These reactors are particularly suited for India’s diverse energy needs, including remote areas and industrial clusters. “These small modular reactors will provide readily available, environment-friendly electricity across the country,” Dr. Jitendra noted.
The Minister also outlined the significant budgetary boost for nuclear energy. “Since 2014, there has been a 170% increase in the budget for the Department of Atomic Energy. In the 2024-25 budget, Rs 20,000 crore has been allocated specifically for the indigenous development of at least five Bharat Small Modular Reactors,” he said.
Dr. Jitendra stressed that India is collaborating with countries like France and the United States for nuclear technology advancements, while prioritizing indigenous research and development. He added that the National Research Foundation, with 60-70% funding from non-government sources, will play a crucial role in accelerating nuclear research.
The Minister also highlighted India’s long-term commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. “Nuclear energy is a cornerstone of India’s transition to clean energy. This mission will not only help us meet our climate commitments but also establish India as a global leader in advanced nuclear technology,” he asserted.
The government’s ambitious nuclear expansion plan also includes the development of India’s thorium reserves, which account for 21% of the world’s total.
Dr. Jitendra pointed out that projects such as the Bhavini reactor and the Kudankulam nuclear plant, which had faced delays before 2014, have gained momentum under the current administration.