New Delhi: In the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh asserted that the India Nuclear Expansion Plan is in a decisive growth phase, with installed capacity set to more than triple by 2031–32 and long-term targets extending to 2047.
He said the programme is backed by policy reforms, private sector participation and clearly defined capacity goals.
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, and MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that India’s installed nuclear capacity, which stood at 4,780 MW in 2014, has risen to 8,780 MW.
It is projected to reach 22,380 MW by 2031–32, 47 GW by 2037, 67 GW by 2042 and 100 GW by 2047.
He affirmed that India is moving forward with self-reliance and confidence, adding that geopolitical developments will not derail ongoing nuclear projects.
Replying to supplementaries raised by R Girirajan, Jairam Ramesh, Ram Gopal Yadav and M Thambidurai, the Minister addressed concerns related to timelines, international negotiations, fuel security, CSR initiatives and power-sharing arrangements.
Kudankulam Units 3–6 on Track Under India Nuclear Expansion Plan
Responding to questions on the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, Dr. Jitendra Singh said Units 3 and 4 are targeted for completion by 2026–27, while Units 5 and 6 are scheduled by 2030.
He stated that there is no reason to apprehend any disruption due to recent geopolitical developments, including shifts in India–US relations.
Tracing the project’s history, he said the Kudankulam project was conceived in 1988, construction began in 2002, and the first unit became operational in December 2014 after the present government assumed office.
The operationalisation of the first two units within the last decade reflects a clear implementation framework and adherence to timelines.
On Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives within the 16-kilometre emergency planning zone, the Minister said the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) undertakes CSR and Rehabilitation & Resettlement (R&R) activities for communities around all nuclear facilities.
India Nuclear Expansion Plan: Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project Discussions Progressing
Addressing questions on the proposed six 1600 MW reactors at the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project, Dr. Jitendra Singh said discussions have been ongoing.
He informed that while the technical agreement framework is in place, certain commercial aspects remain under consideration.
He said the matter is being pursued in coordination with relevant ministries, keeping national interest paramount.
India Nuclear Expansion Plan: Energy Security and Uranium Supply
On concerns regarding uranium imports and possible supply disruptions, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that India has significantly strengthened its energy security over the last decade.
He said nuclear capacity has more than doubled since 2014 and that enabling provisions and duty exemptions for nuclear plant equipment imports up to 2035 are aimed at accelerating domestic capability.
He said the expansion roadmap demonstrates that India is not solely dependent on external sources and is enhancing indigenous potential.
India Nuclear Expansion Plan: Power Allocation Under Gadgil Formula
Responding to questions on electricity distribution, the Minister said power generated from nuclear plants follows the Gadgil formula.
Under this mechanism, 50% of power is retained by the host state, 35% is allocated to neighbouring states and 15% goes to the central grid.
India Nuclear Expansion Plan: ‘Safety First, Production Next’ Doctrine Reiterated
On safety concerns and past apprehensions in the Kudankulam region, Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterated that India’s nuclear programme operates on the principle of “Safety First, Production Next.”
He clarified that allegations regarding centralized storage of spent fuel at Kudankulam were scientifically unfounded, as each reactor manages its own specific fuel cycle.
