New Delhi, Jun 27 (KNN) In a significant development for India's energy sector, Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced that the country's nuclear power generation capacity is projected to increase by approximately 70 per cent over the next five years.

This growth will bring the total capacity to 13.08 GW, up from the current level, through the addition of seven new nuclear reactors.

The announcement came during a high-level meeting to review the Department of Atomic Energy's 100-day action plan.

Present at the meeting were Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission and Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy, along with other senior officials.

Minister Singh emphasised several key points during the meeting. He stressed the importance of integration and collaboration within the department to maximise potential through capacity building, knowledge sharing, and resource utilisation.

The minister also highlighted the focus on indigenous technology development and energy security as primary objectives.

To support these goals, the government has allowed joint ventures with public sector units and increased budgetary allocation through collaboration.

Singh called for the simplification of approval processes to facilitate research and promote scientific advancement.

He also discussed the development of new reactor technologies, including a 220 MW pressurised heavy water reactor (PHWR) using the Bharat Small Reactor (BSR) for captive power generation, and ongoing work on the 220 MW Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR), which features innovative design changes.

The minister reported progress on the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor by BHAVINI, a public sector undertaking, with initial fuel loading and criticality expected in the coming months.

This reactor is notable for its ability to produce more fuel than it consumes.

Beyond energy production, Singh emphasised the importance of expanding nuclear technology applications to other areas.

He highlighted potential advancements in health care, food security, agriculture, and basic scientific research.

The minister stressed that developments in radiation technology could lead to economic and societal benefits for citizens, promoting ease of living and research in various scientific fields.

This ambitious plan aligns with India's broader goals of enhancing energy security, promoting indigenous technological capabilities, and leveraging nuclear science for societal benefits.

As India moves forward with these initiatives, the country aims to position itself as a leader in nuclear technology and its applications across multiple sectors.

(KNN Bureau)