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India’s nuclear energy capacity has increased to 35,333 MW from 22,480 MW in 2014, while installed capacity has doubled from 4,780 MW to 8,880 MW. The Union Budget for this year allocated ?37,483 crore to the Department of Atomic Energy, marking a 170% increase from ?13,879 crore in 2014. The government is expanding nuclear power with strict safety protocols and encouraging private sector participation. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, while addressing the Lok Sabha, emphasized the significant growth in nuclear reactor installations and energy generation over the past decade. Rajasthan plays an important role in nuclear power with seven out of 25 operational reactors. A previously non-functional unit has been revived, and a new reactor is being set up in Gorakhnagar, Haryana. The expansion extends beyond traditional states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. In 2017, the Union Cabinet approved 10 new reactors in one sitting, a historic decision for India’s nuclear sector. Private sector participation is being encouraged to enhance resources and speed up development. The government aims to align with global best practices and reduce dependence on public funds. Nuclear waste disposal follows international standards, with waste stored on-site for five to seven years before being transferred to an Away From Reactor facility for long-term storage and reuse. The Kudankulam and Kalpakkam plants manage their own waste, with Kudankulam’s radiation levels decreasing from 0.081 micro-sieverts in 2014 to 0.002%, and Kalpakkam’s levels dropping from 23.140 to 15.96 micro-sieverts. Strict safety measures are in place, following a “safety first, production next” approach. Nuclear plants undergo monitoring every three months during construction, biannual checks during operation, and a complete review every five years. A Tata Memorial study found that radiation-related health issues near nuclear plants remain below the national average. Radiation levels in India’s nuclear plants are well below the safety limit and continue to decline. Uranium exploration in Rajasthan is awaiting environmental clearances, and once approved, the state will contribute significantly to India’s uranium reserves. In Madhya Pradesh, the Chutka Nuclear Project has completed procedural formalities, including environmental clearance and land acquisition, while resettlement and rehabilitation issues are being addressed with the state government. The Shivpuri project is awaiting final water supply arrangements. Expansion under the nuclear mission could extend to the Khandwa region. The government remains committed to nuclear energy expansion with a focus on safety and self-reliance, ensuring nuclear power’s role as a key clean energy source for the country. |
