Bharat's Nuclear Leap: India Builds Its Own Modular Reactors

The Indian government has announced the development of five indigenously-designed modular nuclear reactors, named Bharat Nuclear Reactors, with private sector participation. This initiative aligns with India’s target of generating 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047 and is backed by a 170% increase in the nuclear energy budget over the past decade.

During Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Jitendra Singh emphasized the role of private players in boosting India’s civil nuclear program. He highlighted India’s focus on manufacturing small modular reactors (SMRs), which are particularly suitable for the country’s diverse and densely populated regions. The planned reactors will have capacities of 300 MW, 16 MW, and 200 MW.

The initiative includes the development of five small breeder reactors with an investment of ₹20,000 crore. While India continues to collaborate with France and the US on nuclear advancements, the primary focus remains on indigenous manufacturing to ensure technological self-reliance and strengthen energy security.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.