India’s Nuclear Energy Mission

Sub: Sci

Sec: Nuclear

Why in News

The Union Budget 2024-25 has proposed a ₹20,000 crore ‘Nuclear Energy Mission’ to develop Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in India.

Key Budget Provisions for Nuclear Energy:

Financial Allocation for the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE):
- Estimated expenditure for 2025-26: ₹24,049 crore.
- Expected expenditure by March 2025: ₹24,450 crore.
- Actual expenditure in 2023-24: ₹25,882 crore.
The allocation is lower than the previous year’s spending, raising concerns about funding availability for nuclear expansion.
While flagship schemes generally receive at least a nominal budget allocation, the Budget documents do not specify any dedicated funding for the five SMRs to be developed by 2033.

Nuclear Energy Mission:

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced a ₹20,000 crore ‘Nuclear Energy Mission’ in the Union Budget 2025, aiming to develop indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
The plan includes operationalizing at least five SMRs by 2033.
To attract foreign and private investments in the nuclear sector, the government proposes amending the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010. These changes aim to facilitate international collaborations and expand nuclear infrastructure.
The mission aligns with India’s objective to achieve 100 GW of nuclear energy capacity by 2047, contributing to the nation’s commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
Key Initiatives Under the Nuclear Energy Mission: Bharat Small Reactors (BSR) and Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMR)
Bharat Small Reactors (BSR): These are incrementally modified versions of India’s existing Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs). Designed to enhance efficiency and scalability within India’s nuclear energy framework.
Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMR): An emerging technology under research globally. Aimed at producing modular, scalable nuclear power with higher safety standards.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs):

SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors with a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit, approximately one-third of the capacity of traditional nuclear reactors.
SMRs are designed for modular manufacturing, allowing for factory production and scalable deployment.
Their smaller size and simplified design offer increased flexibility, lower capital costs, and enhanced safety features compared to traditional large-scale reactors.

Atomic Energy Act, 1962:

Enacted to provide for the development, control, and use of atomic energy for the welfare of the people of India and for other peaceful purposes.
Empowers the Central Government to produce, develop, use, and dispose of atomic energy and radioactive substances.
Regulates the discovery, mining, and disposal of uranium and thorium, requiring individuals to notify the government upon discovering these materials and to conduct related operations under government directives.
Allows the government to declare certain areas as “prohibited” for conducting research, development, and other activities related to atomic energy.

Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010:

Establishes a legal framework for compensating victims of nuclear incidents, specifying liability and procedures for compensation.
Imposes strict and no-fault liability on the operators of nuclear installations for nuclear damage caused by a nuclear incident.
Caps the operator’s liability at ₹500 crore; for damage exceeding this amount, up to 300 million Special Drawing Rights (approximately ₹2,100 crore), the central government is liable.
Grants operators the right to seek recourse against suppliers or other parties under certain conditions, such as if the incident results from the supplier’s defective equipment or services.
Mandates that operators secure insurance or financial security to cover their liability before commencing operation of a nuclear installation.