New Delhi, Jan 15 (NationPress) India is on a crucial path towards energy independence, and the shift from uranium to thorium—which is plentiful in the nation—is vital, asserted Anil Kakodkar, the former chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and its current member, on Thursday.

In an interview with IANS, Kakodkar emphasized the significance of thorium in enhancing India's nuclear energy capabilities.

“Initially, we faced a challenge with the supply of uranium, which was essential to commence our operations. However, we cannot rely on external sources indefinitely. Achieving energy independence necessitates utilizing energy resources available within our own borders,” stated the Secretary to the Government of India.

“Regarding nuclear energy, we possess a significant amount of thorium. Thus, it is imperative that we swiftly transition from uranium to thorium. That is the pivotal point,” he elaborated.

Kakodkar, a distinguished nuclear physicist and mechanical engineer, also highlighted how India has developed its nuclear technology in a self-sufficient manner.

Although the country boasts an advanced reactor system that is performing exceptionally well, the primary challenge remains the availability of fuel.

All reactors currently depend on uranium, and the domestic supply of high-quality uranium is limited. Despite the discovery of additional uranium resources, they remain inadequate.

The establishment of Civil Nuclear Cooperation opened avenues for uranium imports that were previously unattainable, Kakodkar noted.

India has forged agreements with nations such as the US, Canada, Kazakhstan, and Australia to secure essential uranium fuel for its expanding civilian nuclear energy program.

With access to imported uranium, “our reactors are now operating at maximum capacity, and overall production is on a steady rise. New reactors are being constructed, and the government has initiated a nuclear energy mission aimed at achieving 100 gigawatts,” the expert stated.

However, the global demand for uranium continues to escalate, and its overall availability is limited. Thus, countries can only acquire a finite amount.

“You cannot secure all of it for your own use. Even acquiring a larger proportion will pose restrictions, challenges, and pricing issues. Therefore, we must address this challenge moving forward,” Kakodkar expressed.

“While the Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement has enabled us to reach this point, our immediate focus must pivot to thorium. We must prioritize thorium now,” he concluded in his conversation with IANS.