Overview
After the 1974 peaceful nuclear test, India faced international sanctions that blocked uranium imports and nuclear‑plant technology. The 2008 India‑United States civil nuclear deal lifted most restrictions, allowing free import of natural uranium. Since then, India has built a domestic nuclear industry that can produce cheap reactors and aims for 100 GW of capacity by 2047.
Key Developments
- Sanctions forced India to design, test and manufacture every reactor component domestically through the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) and Indian firms.
- Unit size grew from 200 MW to 500 MW, and 700 MW units are now under development. Four reactors are under construction and ten more are being planned.
- India’s reactors cost about $1,700 per kW, far cheaper than South Korean ($2,200/kW), French ($5,500/kW) and U.S. ($15,000/kW) plants.
- The commercial fast breeder reactor (FBR) of 500 MW is being commissioned.
- India produces Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) domestically, while Light Water Reactors (LWR) using enriched uranium remain a development goal.
- The Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) waiver blocks enrichment technology, urging India to develop its own LWR capability.
- Small Modular Reactors (SMR) of 200 MW are being offered by the AEC for new entrants, but foreign‑designed SMRs should first prove safety abroad before Indian deployment.
Important Facts
Cost advantage: $1,700/kW vs $15,000/kW (U.S.).
Market potential: Large domestic demand could make India a global exporter of reactors.
Safety record: India’s nuclear plants have maintained an exemplary safety record to date.
Exam Relevance
The article touches on several GS topics: India‑US civil nuclear deal (GS1, GS3), the role of the AEC in technology self‑reliance (GS3), and the strategic implications of the NSG waiver (GS3, GS4). Understanding reactor types (PHWR, LWR, FBR, SMR) is essential for questions on energy security and sustainable development (GS3).
Way Forward
To meet the 100 GW target safely, the government should:
- Encourage private and public entrants to use proven domestic technology, keeping costs low.
- Allow a limited number of new reactors initially, focusing on building a strong safety culture and external audits.
- Invest in indigenous LWR and enrichment capabilities to reduce dependence on foreign waivers.
- Adopt a cautious approach to SMRs, permitting only those with demonstrated overseas performance.
By scaling up responsibly, India can achieve energy security, export potential, and maintain its strong safety record.