Union Budget 2025-26 : India's Nuclear Energy goals Announced
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman threw the biggest leap ever towards clean energy, which took the shape of announcing the establishment of a Nuclear Energy Mission in her presentation of the Union Budget 2025. The ambitious mission will help India to achieve the "Viksit Bharat" initiative toward becoming a developed nation by 2047 at least 100 GW of nuclear energy. Aiming for 100 GW of Nuclear Energy
Sitharaman has also announced the mission in her budget speech, thereby reiterating its significance saying, "Developing at least 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047 is crucial for our energy transition efforts." It would ensure India has a cleaner and a more sustainable source of energy other than fossil fuels.
Private Sector Participation & Policy Changes
This purpose will be furthered by opening up key pieces of legislation-the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act-in which more space will be allocated to private players in the generation of nuclear energy. Currently, nuclear energy remains a largely state-dominated sector. By opening it up to private participation, it is expected that developments in the nuclear power sectors will be expedited and greater clean energy outputs will be expected.
Focus on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
This effort also aims at developing Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). These are new-generation compact nuclear reactors that are cost-effective, scalable, and safe. The government has already allocated ₹20,000 crore for research and development in SMRs. At least five indigenously developed reactors are to be operational by 2033.
Elaborating on the above step, Sitharaman added, "The Nuclear Energy Mission for Research and Development will look to operationalize at least five indigenously developed small modular nuclear reactors by 2033."
Major Shifts in India's Energy Policy
This move constitutes a pivotal moment in the strategic energy transformation in India with the promotion of nuclear power as clean, sure-fire energy without any reliance on fossil fuels or hydrocarbons for power. At the 100 GW of nuclear capacity in 2047, India intends to minimize the role of fossil fuel in electricity supply, make stronger its nuclear presence, and help India stand in the lead role globally to guarantee low-carbon electricity in this rapidly developing economy.