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What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
India’s significant thorium reserves, comprising 21% of the global total, represent a critical resource in the country’s nuclear energy strategy.
NEW DELHI: India has doubled its nuclear energy generation in the past decade, scaling from 4,780 MW in 2014 to 8,180 MW in 2024, according to Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology. Addressing the Lok Sabha, the Minister revealed that the country aims to triple this capacity to 22,480 MW by 2031-32, demonstrating a robust commitment to enhancing its nuclear energy infrastructure.
Dr Singh attributed this remarkable growth to a series of transformative initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. These include the approval of 10 nuclear reactors, increased funding, collaborations with Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), and limited private sector participation. Enhanced technological advancements and streamlined administrative processes have further bolstered India’s nuclear energy infrastructure.
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He highlighted the revision of the power distribution framework, which now allocates 50% of electricity generated from atomic plants to the home state, 35% to neighbouring states, and 15% to the national grid. This equitable distribution underscores the federal spirit and ensures balanced resource utilization.
Beyond power generation, Dr. Singh outlined the diverse applications of atomic energy. In agriculture, the sector has benefitted from the development of 70 mutagenic crop varieties. In healthcare, advanced isotopes are now used for cancer treatment, while in defence, atomic energy has facilitated the production of lightweight, cost-effective bulletproof jackets.
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India’s significant thorium reserves, comprising 21% of the global total, represent a critical resource in the country’s nuclear energy strategy. Indigenous projects like “Bhavani” aim to harness these reserves, reducing dependence on imported uranium. Dr. Singh acknowledged challenges, such as land acquisition, forest clearances, and equipment procurement, but reaffirmed the government’s commitment to overcoming these hurdles.
Currently, nine atomic power projects are under construction, with several others in the pre-project stage, signaling India’s dedication to expanding its nuclear capabilities.
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Dr. Singh highlighted the acceleration of projects like the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant post-2014, reflecting the strategic focus of the Modi government. He reiterated India’s adherence to the peaceful use of atomic energy as envisioned by Dr. Homi Bhabha and aligned with the vision of “One Nation, One Government.”
This decade of progress underscores India’s resolve to achieve energy self-sufficiency, drive innovation, and harness nuclear energy’s potential for sustainable development. As the country continues to expand its nuclear infrastructure, it reinforces its commitment to peaceful applications of atomic energy across multiple sectors.
