New Delhi, Mar 4
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the importance of nuclear energy in India’s plan to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070. Speaking at a post-budget webinar by NITI Aayog, he outlined the government’s ambitious target of 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047.
With India’s electricity demand expected to increase four to five times by 2047, he highlighted that renewable energy alone cannot meet base-load power needs. To reach the 100 GW goal, India will need to add 4 GW of nuclear power annually through careful planning and execution.
A major shift in India’s nuclear policy includes inviting private sector participation in designing, building, and operating nuclear plants. This will require amendments to the Atomic Energy Act, Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, and Electricity Act. Dr. Singh believes these changes will boost investor confidence and encourage long-term investments.
The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and its subsidiaries will contribute nearly half of the 100 GW target, with NTPC’s joint venture Ashwini already working on four 700 MWe reactors at Mahi-Banswara. Additionally, the government has launched an SMR (Small Modular Reactor) R&D Mission, aiming to develop five SMRs by 2033. These compact reactors can be used in industrial zones and remote areas.
Dr. Singh also stressed the need for public awareness about nuclear energy, urging a nationwide outreach program to clear misconceptions and highlight nuclear power as a safe, clean energy source. He noted that under PM Narendra Modi’s leadership, India’s nuclear program has gained global recognition as a credible and transparent initiative.
With the government formulating a clear roadmap, Dr. Singh expressed confidence that India can achieve 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047, despite the challenges ahead.
(Source: PIB)
