The Department of Atomic Energy has outlined India’s long-term nuclear energy strategy, which aims to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047. The plan centres on developing indigenous nuclear technology and using the country’s vast thorium reserves to ensure energy security without depending on foreign fuel supplies. The approach reflects the government’s commitment to self-reliant development while meeting India’s growing electricity demand through clean power generation.
India’s Nuclear Capacity and Expansion Plans
India currently operates 24 nuclear power reactors with a combined capacity of 8.78 GW. An additional nine reactor units, totalling 7.5 GW, are under construction. The government has approved 10 indigenous Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) to be built in fleet mode and has cleared pre-project activities for two 500 MW Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs).
A significant milestone occurred in April 2026 when India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam achieved first criticality, marking the beginning of the second stage of the country’s three-stage nuclear power programme. The Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research achieved nearly 90 per cent domestic manufacturing of the reactor’s equipment and systems.
Under the Nuclear Energy Mission announced in the Union Budget 2025–26, the government has allocated ₹20,000 crore for research, design, development and deployment of indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). These reactors generate up to 300 MW and can be factory-manufactured and deployed in phases. The government aims to operationalise at least five indigenous SMRs by 2033. Projects in development include the 220 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor, the 55 MWe SMR-55, and a High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor for hydrogen production.
Recent policy initiatives, including the SHANTI Act 2025, are intended to accelerate capacity expansion, strengthen domestic manufacturing, promote innovation and enable greater private sector participation in the nuclear sector.
What This Means for You
The expansion of nuclear power will contribute to India’s electricity supply, particularly for essential services like hospitals, communications networks and industries. Since nuclear plants provide continuous baseload power round the clock, they will help stabilise electricity grids and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. The development of smaller reactors may eventually bring nuclear power generation capabilities to remote areas and support industrial applications beyond traditional power generation.