Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Unveils 100 GW Nuclear Energy Target by 2047 in 2025-26 Budget

New Delhi, Feb 1 (KNN) In a comprehensive energy policy announcement during the Budget 2025-26 presentation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined ambitious reforms for the power sector, combining state-level incentives with significant nuclear energy initiatives to bolster India's energy security and transition goals.

The government will implement measures to incentivize electricity distribution reforms and enhance intra-state transmission capacity at the state level. 

To encourage participation, states will be eligible for additional borrowing capacity of 0.5 percent of their Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), contingent upon implementing these reforms. 

This initiative aims to strengthen the financial health and operational capacity of electricity companies across the nation.

In a landmark decision focusing on nuclear energy development, the Finance Minister announced plans to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, marking a significant expansion of India's nuclear energy portfolio. 

To facilitate private sector participation in this ambitious goal, the government will pursue amendments to both the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act.

Central to this nuclear expansion strategy is the establishment of a Nuclear Energy Mission, supported by a substantial allocation of Rs 20,000 crore. 

This initiative will focus on research and development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), with a specific target of operationalizing at least five indigenously developed SMRs by 2033. 

This commitment demonstrates India's determination to develop domestic nuclear technology capabilities while advancing its clean energy objectives.

These comprehensive energy sector reforms reflect the government's integrated approach to addressing power sector challenges while positioning India as a leader in nuclear energy innovation and development. 

The initiatives combine immediate reforms with long-term strategic planning to ensure sustainable energy security for the nation.

(KNN Bureau)