India Joins IAEA Initiative To Explore Nuclear Technology For Civilian Maritime Use

New Delhi, Aug 27 (KNN) India has joined a global initiative led by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to explore the civilian use of nuclear technology in maritime applications, including floating nuclear power plants and nuclear propulsion for commercial vessels.

The Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications at Sea (ATLAS) initiative was launched at a ministerial conference attended by Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Ajit Kumar Mohanty.

IAEA Director General Mariano Grossi said the initiative would bring together the nuclear and maritime sectors to promote the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear technology at sea, reported PTI.

Small Modular Reactors In Focus

ATLAS will examine the potential use of small modular reactors (SMRs) for commercial shipping, which could enable longer-distance and potentially higher-speed maritime transport with reduced dependence on frequent refuelling.

The initiative will also explore floating nuclear power plants as potential sources of reliable electricity for coastal and remote communities and offshore industries.

Mohanty said India's long coastline, numerous offshore islands and expanding commercial shipping sector create opportunities for SMRs in offshore energy supply and potentially for civilian maritime propulsion.

He said the initiative aligns with India's long-term objective of expanding reliable, low-carbon nuclear power to support economic growth, energy security and climate goals.

India Targets 100 GW Nuclear Capacity By 2047

Mohanty said the ATLAS launch comes as India expands its domestic nuclear programme under the Nuclear Energy Mission, which targets 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047 and deployment of at least five indigenous-designed Bharat Small Modular Reactors by 2033.

He also highlighted the recently enacted Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act, which has opened nuclear power generation to private participation.

According to Mohanty, the legislation also aligns India's nuclear liability framework with the global regime and strengthens the role and powers of the independent Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).

He said India is prepared to contribute its experience in indigenous nuclear technology, fuel-cycle capabilities, peaceful applications and capacity building to advance the ATLAS initiative.

(KNN Bureau)