“When Homi Bhabha launched India’s nuclear program, many questioned its true purpose, suspecting hidden agendas. Yet, Bhabha consistently affirmed that India’s nuclear ambitions were entirely peaceful. Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Nuclear Mission’ has brought Bhabha’s vision to life, focusing on addressing India’s energy needs through clean and sustainable solutions,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of Science and Technology, during an announcement in the Rajya Sabha.
Singh called this initiative a “landmark moment” in India’s energy history, reinforcing the government’s commitment to clean, stable, and renewable energy. He underscored that the success of the mission will rely on the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which will provide sustainable power to even the most remote areas of the country. With SMRs ranging from 16 MW to 300 MW, India is set to revolutionize its energy landscape.
Further highlighting the program’s significance, Singh noted that for the first time, the nuclear energy sector is being opened to private companies, breaking longstanding barriers and promoting transparency. Since 2014, the Department of Atomic Energy’s budget has increased by 170%, propelling indigenous technological advancements.
By tapping into India’s vast thorium reserves, the mission seeks to enhance energy security, accelerate research and development, and establish India as a leader in global clean energy innovation. Collaborating with international partners like France and the United States, and prioritizing local innovation, India is on track to meet its ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
