Union Minister of State highlighted a significant growth in India’s nuclear reactor installations, enhanced safety protocols, and increased private sector participation in India. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, he underscored the unprecedented advancements in nuclear energy generation over the past decade. A press release on his speech was issued on March 26, 2025.
The Minister highlighted Rajasthan’s pivotal contribution, noting that the state hosts seven of India’s 25 operational reactors. He also announced the revival of a previously non-functional unit and the establishment of a new reactor in Gorakhnagar, Haryana, marking a strategic geographical expansion beyond traditional nuclear power hubs.
He pointed to the 2017 cabinet approval for 10 new reactors and the recent Union Budget’s dedicated nuclear mission with substantial budgetary allocations. “Before 2014, the total budget of the Department of Atomic Energy was Rs 13,889 crore. This year, it has expanded to Rs 23,604 crore, reflecting a 170% increase,” the Minister stated, underscoring the government’s strong focus on this vital sector.
The Minister also emphasized a shift towards greater private sector involvement in the nuclear power sector. This move aligns with global best practices and aims to bolster India’s nuclear power capabilities while reducing reliance on public funds. He further elaborated that nuclear power generation capacity has surged from 22,480 MW in 2014 to the current 35,333 MW, while installed capacity has doubled from 4,780 MW to 8,880 MW.
Addressing concerns about safety, the Minister assured the House that stringent protocols are in place to safeguard plant workers and surrounding communities. He reiterated India’s “safety first, production next” approach, with rigorous monitoring including periodic checks during construction and operation, and comprehensive reviews every five years. He cited a Tata Memorial study indicating that radiation-related health concerns near nuclear plants remain below the national average. Moreover, he highlighted a steady decline in radiation generation at India’s nuclear plants, with levels well below safety thresholds.
Addressing the matter of nuclear waste disposal, the Minister clarified that India follows global best practices for safe storage. “Each nuclear plant stores its waste on-site for the initial five to seven years. Subsequently, it is transferred to an ‘Away From Reactor’ (AFR) facility for long-term storage and eventual reuse,” he explained. He also dispelled misinformation about facilities like Kudankulam and Kalpakkam being central waste repositories, emphasizing that each facility manages its waste independently. He pointed out the significant reduction in radiation levels at both plants since 2014.
Uranium Exploration and Progress in Madhya Pradesh
Regarding uranium exploration in Rajasthan, the Minister acknowledged pending environmental clearances but assured that the process is being actively pursued. “Once clearances are secured, Rajasthan will significantly contribute to India’s uranium reserves, bolstering the country’s atomic energy program,” he stated.
Providing updates on nuclear projects in Madhya Pradesh, he mentioned that the Chutka Nuclear project has completed most procedural formalities, including environmental clearance and land acquisition, with resettlement and rehabilitation challenges being addressed in collaboration with the state government. The Shivpuri project is awaiting final arrangements for water supply, and discussions are ongoing. He also hinted at the possibility of further expansion under the nuclear mission, potentially including the Khandwa region.
