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Given the shared vision for clean energy and nuclear security, India and France can play a pivotal role in ensuring global nuclear peace and stability
Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (File photo/PTI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France, which includes a significant stop at Cadarache—the home of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER)—reinforces India’s position as a cornerstone in the global endeavour to develop clean nuclear fusion energy. The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), a collaborative scientific initiative aimed at revolutionising global energy systems, benefits from India acting as a key partner in this world-class project.
India’s nuclear sector has experienced robust growth, with power generation capacity nearly doubling from 4,780 MW in 2014 to 8,180 MW in 2024. Looking ahead, the country is targeting an ambitious 22,480 MW by 2031-32. India is also leveraging atomic energy to drive innovation in other critical sectors. In agriculture, nuclear techniques have been instrumental in developing 70 mutagenic crop varieties. The healthcare sector has also benefited from these advances, with the introduction of advanced isotopes for cancer treatment that offer more precise and effective therapy. The defence sector has also seen practical applications, such as the creation of cost-effective, lightweight bulletproof jackets.
Moreover, India’s abundant thorium reserves—comprising 21% of the global total—position the country as a potential leader in safer, more sustainable nuclear energy alternatives.
Standing at the forefront of global energy transformation, India, under the leadership of PM Modi, has emerged as a leader in secure nuclear energy. Committed to peace, development, and sustainability, India is harnessing civil nuclear energy for national progress and international cooperation. Given the shared vision for clean energy and nuclear security, India and France can play a pivotal role in ensuring global nuclear peace and stability.
India’s commitment to global peace and secure nuclear energy
India has consistently championed nuclear non-proliferation and peaceful nuclear technology deployment. As a responsible nuclear power, India adheres to international norms, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards, and promotes global disarmament efforts. The country has actively contributed to platforms such as the Conference on Disarmament (CD) and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), advocating responsible nuclear governance. To further strengthen its commitment, India is integrating its peaceful nuclear initiatives into its national energy strategy, ensuring both security and sustainability.
Under the Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat, the Union Budget 2025-26 has allocated Rs 20,000 crore for the research and development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). This substantial investment aligns with India’s broader commitment to peaceful nuclear applications, reinforcing its role as a leader in secure and sustainable nuclear energy. With an ambitious target of designing and operationalizing at least five indigenously developed SMRs by 2033, India is not only strengthening its energy infrastructure but also contributing to global energy security. Legislative amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act aim to create a conducive investment framework, facilitating greater international partnerships and fostering technological advancements in nuclear energy.
Public-private collaboration for nuclear innovation
India recognises the crucial role of public-private partnerships in advancing nuclear technology and ensuring energy security. Through collaborative efforts, the government is fostering innovations in:
• Bharat Small Reactors for decentralised clean energy production.
• Bharat Small Modular Reactors for safe, efficient nuclear power solutions.
• Next-generation nuclear technologies to ensure a self-reliant and sustainable energy future.
By integrating private enterprises into the nuclear sector, India aims to enhance innovation, efficiency, and safety while strengthening its global position as a peaceful nuclear energy leader.
Indo-French cooperation in nuclear energy: Advancing Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant
India and France share a strong and enduring partnership in civil nuclear energy marked by the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant. This flagship Indo-French collaboration is set to become the world’s largest nuclear power station, generating nearly 10 GW of electricity. The ongoing commitment from both nations to overcome challenges and resolve any outstanding issues demonstrates their dedication to advancing this pioneering project. Additionally, India’s recent legislative amendments on nuclear liability further strengthen international confidence in collaborative nuclear ventures, solidifying India’s position as a responsible and progressive global leader in the nuclear energy sector.
In the future, India and France will jointly explore cutting-edge reactor technologies beyond traditional nuclear energy projects, such as SMRs and AMRs. These advanced reactors will offer enhanced safety, efficiency, and sustainability, ensuring a cleaner and more secure global nuclear future.
India’s role in ITER: Pioneering fusion energy
India plays a critical role in the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project, a multinational initiative based in Cadarache, France, aimed at harnessing nuclear fusion as an unlimited clean energy source. Through ITER-India, India is delivering key components, including the Cryostat, Cooling Water System, and RF Heating Systems, showcasing its expertise in nuclear technology.
Indian private enterprises, including Larsen & Toubro (L&T), are also contributing cutting-edge welding and assembly technologies for the Tokamak reactor, reinforcing India’s commitment to fusion energy research.
As a full member of ITER, India contributes 9% of the project’s costs, demonstrating its leadership in global nuclear advancements.
A roadmap for global nuclear peace and security
As India targets 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, its strategic collaborations with France and other global partners will play a crucial role in ensuring global nuclear security. By focusing on:
• Strengthening nuclear disarmament initiatives.
• Enhancing non-proliferation frameworks.
• Promoting global cooperation in clean nuclear energy.
India is reinforcing its commitment to global peace and responsible nuclear energy use. The Indo-French nuclear partnership stands as a testament to how nations can work together to harness nuclear energy for sustainable development, ensuring a safer, cleaner, and more secure world.
