Nuclear energy is the fifth-largest source of electricity in India, contributing approximately 3% to the total electricity generation. The country houses over 22 nuclear reactors in 7 power plants, which produce 6780 MW of nuclear power. A distinctive addition to the list is the Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP-3), connected to the grid in January 2021. Among the existing reactors, 18 are Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), four are Light Water Reactors (LWRs), and KAPP-3 stands as the first 700 MWe unit in India.
India’s Recent Progress in Nuclear Energy
In an impressive stride towards enhancing its nuclear program, the government enabled joint ventures with Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). As a consequence, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) entered into joint ventures with National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL).
Previously, India’s nuclear installations were concentrated in South India and the western states of Maharashtra and Gujarat. The government, however, has initiated efforts to expand these installations across the country.
An instance of this expansion is the upcoming nuclear power plant in Gorakhpur, Haryana, which will soon become operational. Adding to the list of indigenous initiatives, the world’s first thorium-based reactor, “Bhavni,” fuelled by Uranium-233, is being set up at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu. This plant, once operational, will be the first of its kind. The experimental thorium plant “Kamini” is already functional in Kalpakkam.
The Challenges to India’s Nuclear Energy
Despite the progress, India faces several hurdles in its nuclear journey. The country’s limited domestic resources of uranium – the fuel for nuclear reactors, force it to rely on imports, making the nuclear program susceptible to global market conditions and political tensions.
Public opposition constitutes another major challenge due to safety and environmental concerns associated with nuclear power plants. Technical hurdles such as complex reactor designs, nuclear waste management, and maintaining nuclear safety standards add to the list of issues.
Being non-aligned with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), India experienced international sanctions for its nuclear weapons program, limiting its access to advanced nuclear technology and fuel supplies. Besides, the complex regulatory framework and slow bureaucracy often result in project delays.
Boosting India’s Nuclear Power Capacity: Proposed Measures
Addressing public concerns is essential for overcoming resistance towards new reactors. This can be achieved through transparent communication with local communities, rigorous implementation of safety standards, and increasing public awareness about nuclear power safety.
Innovation in reactor design, waste management, and safety systems is needed to tackle technical challenges. Additionally, investment in research and development and the use of advanced technologies can aid in this process. To deal with financial constraints, India must explore ways to make nuclear energy more cost-competitive, which may include reducing construction and operation costs and developing innovative financing models.
At an international level, India needs to fortify its partnerships to break through the barriers posed by sanctions and gain access to advanced nuclear technology. Such collaborations may involve joint ventures with other countries, participation in international research initiatives, and negotiation of nuclear trade agreements.
Relevant UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions
Preliminary Question from 2011: “The function of heavy water in a nuclear reactor is to (a) Slow down the speed of neutrons(b) Increase the speed of neutrons (c) Cool down the reactor (d) Stop the nuclear reaction.” The answer is (a).
Mains Question from 2018: “With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy program? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy.”