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14 July 2026

India's nuclear power development

The topic covers India's strategic energy policy, indigenous nuclear technology development, and critical international uranium supply agreements, all of which are core themes for GS3 energy security and GS2 international relations.

1 min read 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • India's nuclear power development has transitioned from post-1974 sanctions to self-reliance through indigenous design and manufacturing.
  • India currently produces the world's most cost-effective nuclear power plants at approximately $1,700 per kW.
  • The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) has scaled unit sizes from 200 MW to 500 MW, with 700 MW units now under development.
  • India's nuclear strategy focuses on Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) using natural uranium, while Light Water Reactors (LWR) require enrichment technology restricted by the Nuclear Suppliers Group.
  • The government aims for 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047, involving both public and private sector participation.
  • India and Australia have finalised administrative arrangements to facilitate uranium exports for peaceful purposes under IAEA safeguards.
  • Australia holds over 25% of global uranium reserves and has historically restricted exports to non-NPT signatories, though it has established bilateral safeguards agreements with India.
  • Safety remains a critical concern for the expansion of nuclear energy, necessitating rigorous internal culture and external auditing to prevent accidents.
  • Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are being explored for data center energy needs, though commercial deployment remains in early stages.

Questions

  1. Analyze the significance of indigenous technological development in achieving cost-competitiveness in India's nuclear energy sector. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Discuss the strategic importance of the India-Australia civil nuclear cooperation in the context of India's long-term energy security and its non-signatory status under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which of the following best describes the primary fuel used in India's indigenous Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR)?

  2. The 'administrative arrangements' between India and Australia primarily facilitate:

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-07-14/india-s-nuclear-power-development