India targets 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047 through the Nuclear Energy Mission, but faces challenges in land acquisition, fuel supply, and public acceptance.
Current Capacity
7.48 GW
2030 Target
22 GW
2047 Target
100 GW
Budget Allocated
₹20,000 Cr
India's nuclear power generation has stagnated due to delayed plant construction, fuel supply constraints from the Nuclear Suppliers Group regime, and high upfront capital costs. The Atomic Energy Act of 1962 restricts private sector participation, creating a monopoly model that lacks competitive efficiency. Land acquisition and local opposition have delayed projects in Jaitapur, Kovvada, and Gorakhpur.
The Nuclear Energy Mission was announced in Union Budget 2025-26 with ₹20,000 Cr allocation. The government is operationalizing 10 indigenous 700 MW PHWRs, has amended the Atomic Energy Act to allow joint ventures with PSUs, and is negotiating with France, US, and Russia for large reactor projects. Siting of five new nuclear parks has been approved.
Citizens can participate in public hearings conducted by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board for new plant siting. Local communities near existing plants can apply for CSR-funded skill development programs. Supporting nuclear awareness campaigns and submitting feedback on DAE public consultations helps shape policy.
₹20,000 Cr allocated under the Nuclear Energy Mission. Additional ₹8,500 Cr for research in small modular reactors (SMRs). NPCIL's capex for FY26 is ₹12,000 Cr. Total estimated investment needed to reach 100 GW by 2047 is ~₹12 lakh Cr.
China leads with 56 GW and 23 under construction. France generates 65% of electricity from nuclear. The US has 93 operating reactors. India's 7.48 GW is far below its peer set — even South Korea with a similar GDP per capita operates 25 reactors. However, India's indigenous PHWR technology is a unique advantage.
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