The Indian government is exploring a framework to allow private companies to operate nuclear power plants, marking a potential policy shift from the current public-sector-only model.

Discussions are underway to set qualifying criteria focused on financial strength, technical expertise, and proven experience in executing large-scale projects. Proposed amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act are under legal review to enable private participation. A senior official stated, “The idea is to allow companies that are established and have a proven record of developing large projects. The company should be a going concern, with a good financial outlook.”

Criteria being discussed include sustained positive revenues for a specified period and experience in major infrastructure development. The move aligns with India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision to raise nuclear power capacity from the current 8.8 GW to 100 GW by 2047, with an interim target of 22 GW by 2032.

The liability law, designed to safeguard against nuclear accidents, remains a key investor concern. Nuclear Power Corporation of India currently operates all 23 nuclear plants in the country.