Union Budget 2025: Launch of Nuclear Energy Mission for Clean and Sustainable Energy
In a landmark announcement during the Union Budget 2025 speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman revealed the launch of a Nuclear Energy Mission aimed at accelerating India's transition to clean and sustainable energy. With a focus on increasing nuclear power generation, the government is determined to meet growing energy demands while reducing carbon emissions.
Key Highlights of the Nuclear Energy Mission:
1. Ambitious Goal for Nuclear Power: The core objective of the mission is to develop at least 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047. This is a bold step toward reducing India's dependence on fossil fuels and improving energy security, aligning with the country's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions in the coming decades. Nuclear energy, with its potential for high efficiency and low environmental impact, is seen as a crucial component of India’s energy mix in the transition to cleaner sources of energy.
2. Private Sector Participation: In a major shift, the government has proposed amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, which will facilitate greater participation from the private sector in nuclear energy development. These legislative changes aim to open up the nuclear energy space to private enterprises, allowing them to invest in and operate nuclear power plants, thereby enhancing competition and innovation in the sector.
3. Research and Development for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): The government has allocated ?20,000 crore for a dedicated research and development initiative focused on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). SMRs are smaller, more flexible, and cost-effective nuclear reactors, making them an ideal solution for meeting regional energy demands and providing cleaner energy for rural areas. With global interest in SMRs growing, India plans to become a key player in the development and deployment of this new generation of nuclear technology. The focus on SMRs will reduce the risks associated with large-scale reactors and enable safer, more efficient energy generation.
4. Indigenous Development of SMRs: As part of this mission, India aims to have at least five indigenously developed SMRs operational by 2033. These reactors will be developed using homegrown technology, ensuring that India is not only energy-secure but also technologically self-sufficient in the nuclear power sector. This initiative will also create high-skilled jobs and boost India’s position as a global leader in clean energy innovation.
5. Environmental and Economic Benefits: The shift toward nuclear energy aligns with India’s broader climate goals under the Paris Agreement, and the increased use of nuclear power will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Nuclear Energy Mission will help India meet its targets for sustainable development and clean energy production while driving economic growth through job creation and technological advancements. Furthermore, nuclear power provides a reliable source of baseload electricity, which is essential for supporting India’s expanding industrial and technological sectors.
Conclusion: The Nuclear Energy Mission unveiled in Budget 2025 marks a significant step in India’s journey toward a sustainable, low-carbon future. With a focus on expanding nuclear power capacity, facilitating private sector participation, and investing in cutting-edge SMR technology, this initiative will play a pivotal role in reducing India’s carbon footprint and enhancing its energy security. As the government pushes forward with these ambitious plans, India is set to strengthen its position as a leader in clean energy on the global stage.
