Will new Act aid India’s nuclear development?
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Nuclear & new energy technology· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Government of India enacted the SHANTI Act to repeal existing nuclear legislation and encourage private sector participation by removing previous liability clauses.
Background
The SHANTI Act (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India) replaces previous nuclear laws. It aims to help India reach a nuclear capacity of 100 GW by 2047, up from the current 8.8 GW, with a focus on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
Facts for Prelims
- Act / BillSHANTI Act: Repeals existing nuclear legislation to facilitate private sector involvement.
- FactIndia's current nuclear capacity: 8.8 GW.
- FactIndia's nuclear capacity target by 2047: 100 GW.
- S&TSmall Modular Reactors (SMRs): Identified as a key technology for India's nuclear expansion.
- FactSHANTI Act: Establishes a streamlined compensation approach with penalties varying based on plant size.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how the SHANTI Act can facilitate India's transition to a nuclear-heavy energy mix while addressing safety and waste management concerns.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Private-Public Partnership: Balancing private investment incentives with stringent safety oversight and liability frameworks.
- Technological Transition: Evaluating the scalability and waste-management feasibility of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
- Regulatory Reform: Streamlining accident compensation mechanisms to ensure accountability without deterring private capital.
Keywords: Nuclear Expansion · Small Modular Reactors · Private Participation · Liability Framework · Energy Security
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