Govt considering legislative amendments to push private investments in nuclear space: Shripad Naik

Govt considering legislative amendments to push private investments in nuclear space: Shripad Naik

## Government Weighs Amendments to Atomic Energy Act to Spur Private Nuclear Investment

**New Delhi:** The Indian government is actively exploring legislative amendments to the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, a move aimed at opening the nation’s nuclear energy sector to private investment and potentially involving state governments in future nuclear projects. This potential shift in policy signals a significant departure from the current framework, which restricts participation in nuclear initiatives to government entities.

The proposed amendments are driven by a desire to accelerate the growth of India’s nuclear power capacity, a critical component of the nation’s energy security strategy and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. While India possesses a well-established nuclear program, its expansion has been hampered by funding constraints and bureaucratic hurdles. Allowing private sector involvement could unlock substantial capital investment and bring innovative technologies to the forefront.

Currently, the Atomic Energy Act vests exclusive control over all aspects of nuclear energy development, from uranium mining to reactor operation, with the central government. This has limited the scope for private companies to contribute to the sector, even in areas such as component manufacturing, construction, and specialized services. The proposed amendments are expected to address these limitations by clarifying the roles and responsibilities of private players and establishing a regulatory framework that ensures safety and security while fostering innovation.

Sources within the government indicate that the amendments are being carefully considered to ensure that any private participation is subject to stringent oversight and adheres to the highest international standards for nuclear safety and security. The focus will be on establishing a clear legal and regulatory framework that provides investors with certainty and protects the public interest.

The potential involvement of state governments in nuclear projects is another key aspect of the proposed amendments. This could involve states hosting nuclear power plants in a more direct and collaborative manner, potentially through joint ventures or public-private partnerships. Such involvement could foster greater local ownership and support for nuclear projects, addressing concerns related to land acquisition and community engagement.

However, the proposed amendments are likely to face scrutiny and debate. Concerns regarding nuclear safety, security, and the potential for proliferation will need to be addressed convincingly. Opposition parties and civil society groups are expected to raise questions about the transparency and accountability of private sector involvement in the nuclear sector.

The government is expected to conduct extensive consultations with stakeholders, including industry representatives, scientists, and policymakers, before finalizing the proposed amendments. The process will involve a careful balancing act between the need to attract private investment and the imperative to maintain the highest standards of nuclear safety and security.

Ultimately, the success of the proposed amendments will depend on the government’s ability to create a regulatory environment that is both attractive to investors and safeguards the public interest. If implemented effectively, this policy shift could unlock significant potential for the growth of India’s nuclear energy sector, contributing to the nation’s energy security and its efforts to combat climate change. The coming months will be crucial as the government navigates the complex challenges and opportunities presented by this landmark initiative.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.