The government has announced the manufacturing of five indigenously-developed modular reactors, named Bharat nuclear reactors, with private sector participation in the nuclear industry. The initiative aligns with India's goal of generating 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047, supported by a 170 percent increase in the nuclear energy budget over the past decade.

Responding to supplementary questions during Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Jitendra Singh highlighted the decision to involve private players in the nuclear sector, stating that it has provided a significant boost to India’s civil nuclear programme. “India’s focus is to manufacture small modular reactors with private participation. These are very relevant to India as it has a heterogenous population located in small, densely populated pockets and factories close-by. Hence, small modular reactors of 300 MW, 16 MW and 200 MW are suitable,” he said.

The plan includes the development of five small breeder reactors in the coming years, with an allocation of Rs 20,000 crore.

While India is collaborating with France and the US on nuclear advancements, the primary focus remains on indigenous manufacturing, ensuring technological self-reliance and enhancing energy security.