NEW DELHI: India’s nuclear power generation capacity has nearly doubled in the past decade from 4,780 MW in 2014 to 8,081 MW in 2024, Union minister for department of atomic energy Jitendra Singh informed the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
The minister also informed the House that the atomic energy capacity is projected to triple to 22,480 MW by 2031-32, showcasing India’s commitment to scaling up its nuclear energy infrastructure. He said that nine atomic power projects are currently under construction, with several others in the pre-project stage, demonstrating India’s dedication to expanding nuclear energy capacity.
Singh emphasised the revision of India’s power distribution framework, which has increased the home state’s share of electricity from atomic plants to 50%, with 35% allocated to neighbouring states and 15% to the national grid. This new formula ensures equitable resource distribution and reflects the federal spirit of the nation.
The minister attributed the progress in nuclear power generation to several transformative initiatives, including the bulk approval of 10 nuclear reactors, increased funding allocations, collaborations with public sector undertakings, and limited private sector participation. He credited advancements in technology and streamlined administrative processes for strengthening India’s nuclear infrastructure.
Singh also highlighted diverse applications of atomic energy in various fields like agriculture, healthcare and defence sector. He noted its extensive use in agriculture, including the development of 70 mutagenic crop varieties. In the health sector, India has introduced advanced isotopes for cancer treatment, while in the defence sector, atomic energy processes have been used to develop cost-effective, lightweight bulletproof jackets.
The minister also underscored India’s abundant thorium reserves, which constitute 21% of the global total. Indigenous projects like “Bhavani” are being developed to harness this resource, reducing dependence on imported uranium and other materials.
