Jitendra Singh: India Witnesses a Twofold Surge in Nuclear Power Capacity Over the Past Decade
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New Delhi, Dec 12 (NationPress) India's nuclear power generation capacity has nearly doubled in the last 10 years, rising from 4,780 MW in 2014 to 8,180 MW in 2024, as reported to the Parliament.
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Department of Atomic Energy, Jitendra Singh, highlighted the substantial advancements and the future prospects of India's atomic energy initiatives during his address to the Lok Sabha, projecting that the capacity could triple to 22,480 MW by 2031-32.
He discussed significant milestones and laid out a strategy for achieving enhanced self-sufficiency in nuclear power generation.
Jitendra Singh pointed out the recent overhaul of India's power distribution system, which has resulted in increasing the share of electricity from atomic plants to the home state to 50 percent, with 35 percent going to neighboring states and 15 percent to the national grid. This revised formula ensures a fair distribution of resources and embodies the federal ethos of the nation.
The Minister attributed this progress to various transformative measures, such as the mass sanctioning of 10 reactors, augmented funding, partnerships with Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), and limited involvement from the private sector.
He acknowledged that advancements in technology and improved administrative procedures have fortified India's nuclear infrastructure.
Beyond energy production, Jitendra Singh highlighted the multifaceted uses of atomic energy. He pointed out its significant application in agriculture, leading to the creation of 70 mutagenic crop varieties. In the healthcare arena, India has rolled out advanced isotopes for cancer treatment, while the defence sector has employed atomic energy processes to design cost-effective, lightweight bulletproof jackets.
The Minister also emphasized India's rich thorium reserves, which account for 21 percent of the global total. Indigenous initiatives like ‘Bhavani’ are underway to exploit this resource, aiming to lessen reliance on imported uranium and other materials.
He recognized the hurdles in executing atomic power projects, such as land acquisition, forest clearances, and equipment procurement, but reaffirmed the government's resolve to confront these challenges.
Currently, nine atomic power projects are under construction, with several more in the pre-project phase, showcasing India’s commitment to expanding its nuclear energy capacity.
Jitendra Singh offered a historical overview, noting projects like the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, which gained traction post-2014 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
He reiterated India’s dedication to the peaceful utilization of atomic energy, as envisioned by Homi Bhabha, and emphasized the importance of leveraging nuclear energy for sustainable development in alignment with the vision of ‘One Nation, One Government’.
These advancements underscore India's determination to achieve energy self-sufficiency, foster innovation, and make substantial contributions across various sectors through the peaceful use of nuclear energy, he concluded.
