Parliament Question: Enhancing Nuclear Energy

Why in news

The government has outlined a roadmap to achieve 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047, as part of the Nuclear Energy Mission announced in the Union Budget 2025-26, aiming to boost low-carbon energy and support Net Zero goals.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Economy, Science & Technology, Environment & Ecology · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. India aims to reach 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047.
2. This target is part of the Nuclear Energy Mission announced in the Union Budget 2025-26.
3. The roadmap aims to increase the share of reliable, low-carbon base-load nuclear energy.
4. The initiative supports the vision of Viksit Bharat and the goal of Net Zero carbon emissions by 2070.
5. The strategy involves deploying indigenous 700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) and large imported advanced reactors.
6. Development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are also planned for various applications.
7. Current nuclear power capacity is 8.78 GW.
8. Capacity is expected to reach approximately 22 GW by 2031-32.
9. An additional 32 GW capacity is planned beyond 2032 by NPCIL.
10. NPCIL is a Public Sector Enterprise under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

Prelims pointers

• Target nuclear power capacity by 2047: 100 GW
• Nuclear Energy Mission announced in Union Budget: 2025-26
• Net Zero carbon emissions target year: 2070
• Indigenous reactor type mentioned: 700 MWe PHWRs
• Current nuclear power capacity: 8.78 GW
• Projected nuclear capacity by 2031-32: ~22 GW
• Additional capacity planned beyond 2032: 32 GW
• Implementing agency for future capacity: NPCIL
• Administrative control of NPCIL: Department of Atomic Energy (DAE)

Mains practice question

Discuss the strategic importance of enhancing nuclear energy capacity in India's pursuit of energy security and climate change mitigation goals. Analyze the roadmap outlined for achieving this expansion and its potential challenges.

Static linkage

India's nuclear energy program is overseen by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and implemented primarily by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). The country has historically pursued a three-stage nuclear power program based on its indigenous uranium and thorium reserves. This roadmap aligns with India's broader energy security and climate change mitigation strategies, emphasizing a transition towards cleaner energy sources.

Significance

The roadmap signifies a significant push towards nuclear energy as a crucial component of India's low-carbon energy transition. Achieving 100 GW capacity would substantially increase the base-load power supply, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to the Net Zero emissions target. The focus on indigenous reactor technology (PHWRs) and advanced reactors, alongside the exploration of SMRs, highlights a strategy for technological self-reliance and diversification of energy sources. This expansion is vital for meeting the growing energy demands of a developing economy while adhering to climate commitments.