India’s Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has granted a five-year operational licence to two 700 MW pressurised heavy water reactors (PHWRs) at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) in Gujarat. Developed indigenously by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL), KAPS-3 and KAPS-4 represent the country’s first PHWRs of this capacity.

KAPS-3 began full-power operations in August 2023, followed by KAPS-4 in August 2024. "The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has concluded the Design and Commissioning Safety Reviews and issued the License for Operation of Units 3 and 4 of KAPS-3&4," the regulator announced. The rigorous licensing process spanned nearly 15 years, involving multi-tier safety reviews across all phases—from siting to construction and commissioning. This development marks a major boost for NPCIL, which is constructing ten similar 700 MW PHWRs in fleet mode.

The earlier 540 MW PHWR design was upgraded to 700 MW, with similar reactors now operational in Rajasthan and planned across other sites. Reactor safety experts and technical support organisations played a critical role in the long review process. The license reflects confidence in indigenous nuclear capabilities and strengthens India’s low-carbon energy roadmap.