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14 Dec 2025·Source: The Indian Express
2 min
EconomyScience & TechnologyNEWS

Nuclear Energy Sector Set for Boost with Amendment Approval

Nuclear Energy Sector Set for Boost with Amendment Approval

Photo by Subramanian S

The Union Cabinet has approved amendments to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, paving the way for greater private sector participation in India's nuclear power sector. This move aims to increase nuclear power generation capacity, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and meet India's growing energy demands. The amendment facilitates the establishment of nuclear power plants in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode, encouraging investment and technological advancements.

Key Facts

1.

Amendment to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962

2.

Increased private sector participation in nuclear power

3.

Establishment of nuclear power plants in PPP mode

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

Implications for energy security

2.

Impact on climate change mitigation

3.

Regulatory and safety aspects of nuclear power

Visual Insights

Impact of Atomic Energy Act Amendment

Key statistics highlighting the potential impact of the Atomic Energy Act amendment on India's energy sector.

Nuclear Power Capacity Target (2030)
22,480 MW

India's ambitious target for nuclear power capacity by 2030, crucial for meeting growing energy demands and reducing carbon emissions. The amendment aims to accelerate progress towards this goal.

Current Nuclear Power Contribution
~3%

The current contribution of nuclear power to India's total electricity generation. The amendment seeks to significantly increase this percentage.

Projected Investment in Nuclear Sector
₹1 Lakh Crore

Estimated investment required to achieve the targeted nuclear power capacity. PPP model is expected to attract a significant portion of this investment.

More Information

Background

India's nuclear energy program has been evolving since independence. The Atomic Energy Act of 1962 provided the initial framework. Over time, there has been a growing need to increase nuclear power generation to meet energy demands and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Latest Developments

The recent amendment to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, aims to facilitate greater private sector participation in the nuclear power sector through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). This is expected to boost investment, technological advancements, and overall nuclear power generation capacity.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the recent amendment to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962: 1. It primarily aims to restrict foreign investment in India's nuclear power sector. 2. It facilitates the establishment of nuclear power plants through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). 3. The amendment mandates the use of only indigenous technology in all new nuclear power plants. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 only
  • B.2 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

The amendment aims to increase private sector participation through PPPs. It does not restrict foreign investment or mandate the exclusive use of indigenous technology.

2. In the context of India's nuclear power program, which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL)?

  • A.It is a Public Sector Enterprise under the administrative control of the Department of Atomic Energy.
  • B.It is responsible for the design, construction, commissioning, and operation of nuclear power plants.
  • C.It is mandated to solely rely on imported technology for all its nuclear power projects.
  • D.It contributes to India's energy security and sustainable development goals.
Show Answer

Answer: C

NPCIL focuses on both indigenous and imported technologies. It is not mandated to solely rely on imported technology.

3. Which of the following committees is/are associated with the safety and regulatory aspects of nuclear power plants in India? 1. Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) 2. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) 3. Central Electricity Authority (CEA) Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  • A.1 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) is the primary body responsible for nuclear safety and regulation in India. NDMA deals with disaster management, and CEA deals with electricity sector planning and regulation.

4. Assertion (A): The recent amendment to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 is expected to increase nuclear power generation capacity in India. Reason (R): Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) can bring in greater investment and technological advancements in the nuclear sector. In the context of the above statements, which of the following is correct?

  • A.Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B.Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
  • C.A is true but R is false
  • D.A is false but R is true
Show Answer

Answer: A

The amendment aims to increase nuclear power generation through PPPs, which can bring in investment and technology. Therefore, both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

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