India Unveils Groundbreaking Nuclear Energy Bill for Future Growth
In a significant advancement towards the modernization of its nuclear energy framework, the Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, presented the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, 2025, in Parliament today. This new legislation aims to overhaul the existing legal structure surrounding nuclear energy in the country by repealing the outdated Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010. Instead, it proposes a single, cohesive law that addresses both present and future energy demands.
The Statement of Objects and Reasons accompanying the Bill highlights India’s achievements in self-reliance across the nuclear fuel cycle, showcasing its responsible operation of a nuclear power program. Building on this experience, the government sees a clear opportunity to significantly expand nuclear capacity to enhance clean energy security and meet the round-the-clock electricity requirements for modern technologies like data centers and other advanced applications.
Aligning with Energy and Climate Goals
Central to the proposed legislation is its alignment with India’s long-term energy and climate objectives. The roadmap outlined in the Bill envisions a decarbonized future by 2070 and a substantial target of generating 100 gigawatts of nuclear power by 2047. To achieve these ambitious goals, the Bill emphasizes the importance of fully utilizing domestic nuclear resources and encourages active involvement from both public and private sectors. This initiative also positions India to take an integral role in the global nuclear energy landscape.
Detailed Operational Provisions
On the operational front, the Bill introduces specific provisions for licensing and safety authorizations for individuals involved in nuclear energy production and usage. It includes clear guidelines for suspending or canceling licenses, aiming to regulate nuclear and radiation technologies in various fields such as healthcare, agriculture, industry, and research. Notably, it will exempt research, development, and innovation activities from licensing requirements to foster growth in these areas.
A Stronger Liability Framework
The legislation also revamps the civil liability framework for nuclear damage and grants statutory status to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board. Furthermore, it strengthens essential mechanisms related to safety, security, quality assurance, safeguards, and emergency preparedness. New institutional frameworks will be established, including an Atomic Energy Redressal Advisory Council, Claims Commissioners, and a Nuclear Damage Claims Commission for severe nuclear damage cases, with the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity serving as the appellate authority.
By introducing this forward-thinking Bill, the government is signaling its commitment to transforming nuclear governance in line with India’s energy transition, technological advancements, and international obligations. The legislation aims to harmonize the growth of nuclear energy with safety, accountability, and the broader public interest, integrating nuclear power into the national agenda for energy security and a sustainable, low-carbon future.
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