Zero Customs Duty Boosts Nuclear Project Viability in India
In a significant move to enhance the viability of nuclear power projects in India, the government has announced a zero customs duty on imports essential for these initiatives. This strategic decision is expected to lower the overall project costs and the unit price of electricity generated, particularly for projects that involve substantial foreign collaboration.
The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) is taking proactive measures to bolster the domestic supply chain for ten newly approved 700 MWe Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) units. Key steps include placing bulk orders to ensure a steady flow of supplies, expanding the vendor base with necessary support, and developing indigenous equipment to reduce reliance on imports. Furthermore, NPCIL is reserving specific equipment for Class-1 local suppliers and organizing vendor meetings to promote Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), giving them an edge in project bids.
Strengthening Research and Development
The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) plays a pivotal role in research and development activities across multiple sanctioned projects. Enhanced funding for R&D is being directed towards new technology developments that align with the government’s goals for self-reliance. BARC’s current priorities include:
- Developing and deploying new research reactors aimed at advancing scientific research.
- Establishing isotope production reactors with processing facilities to secure a self-sufficient supply, crucial for medical applications like cancer treatment.
- Creating innovative reactor technologies, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), that focus on efficient power and hydrogen production.
- Advancing accelerator programs that develop high-energy beam technologies for societal, medical, and scientific use.
- Pioneering laser technology for applications in medicine and engineering.
- Innovating advanced materials and manufacturing technologies to back these flagship initiatives.
As of now, there are no proposals to alter the established plans, as clarified by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology and other key portfolios. In a written statement to the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, he confirmed that the initiatives are well underway, with a clear focus on achieving self-reliance in India’s nuclear power sector.
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