The Government of India under Budget 2025 has provisioned for the Nuclear energy mission for Viksit Bharat. The development of atleast 100 GIGAWATTS of Nuclear Energy by 2047 is essential for our energy transition efforts, as per Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Amendments to the Atomic Energy Act will be done to provide for the same.
Nuclear energy in India plays a vital role in the country's energy mix, providing a reliable and low-carbon source of electricity. India’s nuclear program began in the 1940s, and today the country has an established nuclear power industry with over 20 reactors in operation. The government aims to expand its nuclear capacity to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and meet growing energy demands. India is also a signatory of the Paris Agreement, and nuclear energy is seen as key to meeting the country's climate goals.
The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) oversees India’s nuclear power sector, with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) responsible for operations. The Indian nuclear program focuses on developing advanced technologies like fast breeder reactors and thorium reactors, as part of its long-term energy strategy. India's large reserves of thorium, a safer and more abundant nuclear fuel, offer the potential for sustainable nuclear power.
However, challenges such as public opposition, safety concerns, and the disposal of nuclear waste continue to be debated. Despite these hurdles, India remains committed to expanding its nuclear energy capacity, with several new reactors under construction. Nuclear energy is expected to play an increasingly crucial role in India’s efforts to ensure energy security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the future.
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