In March 2025, the Government of India unveiled an ambitious Nuclear Energy Mission, setting the target of achieving 100 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear power generation capacity by the year 2047, coinciding with India's centenary of independence. The mission is part of India's broader strategy to transition to clean energy sources and meet its international climate commitments, particularly the net-zero carbon emissions goal by 2070.
Currently, India's installed nuclear power capacity stands at around 7 GW, spread across several operational plants like Tarapur, Kakrapar, Kudankulam, and Kalpakkam. Achieving the 100 GW target will require massive expansion, including setting up new indigenous reactors, deploying Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), and collaborating internationally on advanced nuclear technologies.
The mission envisages reforms in the nuclear sector, allowing greater participation by private players under strict regulatory oversight, streamlining the approval process for new plants, and enhancing local manufacturing through the "Make in India" initiative. The government also plans to amend laws like the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 to attract foreign investments and promote public-private partnerships in nuclear technology.
While nuclear energy is considered a reliable and low-carbon energy source, critics have raised concerns about nuclear safety, radioactive waste management, and the cost and time overruns traditionally associated with nuclear projects. The government has assured the public that robust safety frameworks, adherence to international standards, and transparent public consultations will be integral to the expansion plans.
Experts believe that if implemented successfully, the Nuclear Mission could significantly reduce India’s dependence on fossil fuels, create thousands of jobs, strengthen energy security, and cement India's position as a leader in clean energy innovation.
Q1. What is the target year for India to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power capacity?
Q2. What is India's current installed nuclear power capacity?
Q3. Which energy goal does the nuclear mission align with internationally?
Q4. Which existing law may be amended to facilitate foreign investment in nuclear projects?
Q5. What type of new technology is part of India's nuclear expansion plan?
Q6. Which initiative will support domestic manufacturing in the nuclear sector?
Q7. Which of the following is NOT listed as a concern about nuclear energy expansion?
Q8. Which of the following operational plants was mentioned in the passage?
Q9. How will private players be involved in the Nuclear Mission?
Q10. What will the nuclear mission help reduce, according to the passage?
Q11. What other benefit is expected apart from clean energy?
Q12. What international standards will India adhere to in its nuclear program expansion?
Q13. Which two factors are cited as traditional challenges for nuclear projects?
Q14. How has the government addressed public concern regarding nuclear safety?
Q15. Which concept describes the small, flexible nuclear power units planned under this mission?
Q16. India's nuclear mission can help cement its role as a leader in which area?
Q17. In which year did India celebrate its 75th year of independence?
Q18. Which principle is central to India's commitment to nuclear expansion?
Q19. What kind of partnerships is the government encouraging for nuclear development?
Q20. What does achieving 100 GW of nuclear capacity symbolize for India?