Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced a bold new ‘Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat’, setting an ambitious target of 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047 as part of India’s clean energy transition. To accelerate growth, amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act will be introduced, enabling greater private sector participation.
A major highlight of the initiative is a ₹20,000 crore R&D mission for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), with at least five indigenous SMRs expected to be operational by 2033. Former Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Dr. Anil Kakodkar welcomed the move, calling it a “clear realization” of nuclear energy’s role in achieving Net Zero emissions.
India currently has an 8,180 MW installed nuclear capacity, with 24 operational reactors, and 21 more reactors under implementation by NPCIL. Union Minister Jitendra Singh projected that nuclear capacity will triple to 22,480 MW by 2031-32, with nine reactors under construction and 12 in pre-project stages.
While nuclear power offers a near-zero carbon emission alternative amid climate concerns, experts warn that land acquisition and fuel availability remain key challenges. Dr. A.K. Mohanty, chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, emphasized that India’s technical expertise makes the 100 GW target achievable, but collaboration with private players—especially for captive SMRs—will be crucial.
With nuclear power now central to India’s clean energy roadmap, the mission aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, strengthen energy security, and cement India’s leadership in sustainable atomic energy development.