India’s Nuclear Energy Revolution: A New Era Unveiled
India is undertaking its boldest-ever nuclear sector overhaul, aiming to move beyond state monopoly and spark unprecedented private and foreign participation. This legislative and investment push comes amid urgent national goals: energy security, decarbonization, and a 100 GW nuclear capacity target by 2047—twelve times current levels.
Private Investment: Legislative Overhaul
Sweeping reforms are underway to amend the Atomic Energy Act (1962) and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (2010), paving the way for private and global investors. For the first time, Indian firms and foreign partners will be able to co-own, build, and operate nuclear power plants—backed by a new nuclear liability fund covering compensation beyond ₹1,500 crore ($169 million), mitigating previous barriers to supplier and investor participation. This structured liability fund, soon to be enshrined in law, replaces the earlier ad hoc system and responds to long-standing risk concerns from global suppliers.
Budget Push & Small Modular Reactors
The Union Budget 2025-26 signaled this transition by allocating ₹20,000 crore for the “Nuclear Energy Mission,” with a priority on developing Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and operationalizing at least five indigenous SMRs by 2033. These new reactors promise faster deployment, affordable capital needs, and suitability for both grid and industrial applications—reflecting India’s commitment to both innovation and indigenous design.
Major Players at the Fore
The impending reforms have energized India’s largest companies—NTPC, Tata Power, Reliance Industries, Adani Power—who are strategizing investments estimated at upwards of $5.2 billion each for nuclear projects. NTPC, for example, set up a dedicated subsidiary to execute new nuclear projects and entered joint ventures with Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL), while Mahi Banswara’s major power project has already been transferred to a JV for implementation.
International Collaboration & Opportunities
Interest from Russia (Rosatom), France (EDF), and U.S. corporations (Westinghouse, GE-Hitachi) has intensified following India’s legislative clarity and the nuclear liability fund proposal. Collaboration now extends beyond building new reactors—France and India recently signed a letter of intent for advanced modular and small modular reactors, while retired coal sites are being eyed for nuclear redevelopment.
Challenges and Promise
India’s nuclear promise is not without hurdles: securing skilled talent, boosting domestic manufacturing, and ensuring consistent uranium supply remain priorities. Yet, by addressing liability, opening investment flows, and prioritizing cost-competitive, low-carbon power, India is poised to create a world-leading nuclear program—potentially powering half its electricity needs by 2070.
Conclusion
With regulatory reforms in motion, massive budget allocations, and technology partnerships, India’s nuclear sector is entering a new age of innovation and growth. This strategic transformation is vital for the nation’s net-zero goal and a prosperous, clean-energy future