Union Budget 2025-26: India's Nuclear Energy Ambitions
| Summary/Static | Details |
|---|---|
| Why in the news? | Union Budget 2025-26 highlights significant investments and policy changes in India's nuclear energy sector. |
| Nuclear Energy Mission | Launched to achieve 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047, focusing on energy security and sustainability. |
| Research & Development (R&D) | ₹20,000 crore allocated for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), with a target of five indigenous SMRs by 2033. |
| Legislative Amendments | Amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act to facilitate private sector involvement. |
| Private Sector Involvement | Collaboration on Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs), SMR development, and advanced nuclear technologies. |
| Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) | 220 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) designed for industrial use, reducing land requirements and enhancing safety. |
| Nuclear Capacity Expansion | Plans to increase capacity from 8,180 MW to 22,480 MW by 2031-32, including ten new reactors across six states. |
| Recent Achievements | Criticality achieved at RAPP-7 (Sept 2024), uranium discovery at Jaduguda Mines, and commercial operation of 700 MWe PHWR at Kakrapar. |
| Safety and Environmental Goals | Commitment to stringent safety standards and achieving net-zero emissions through clean and sustainable nuclear energy. |