NTPC plans to invest Rs three to four lakh crore in nuclear power projects over the next 23 years, signaling a major shift in India’s energy landscape. The government’s move to amend the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act to encourage private participation has drawn interest from global firms.

Russian firm Rosatom has offered expertise in building small modular reactors, while French company EDF has also shown interest.

The FY25 budget introduced private sector participation in atomic energy through a public-private partnership (PPP) model, paving the way for the development of Bharat Small Reactors (BSR). Following this, the Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) issued a request for proposal to industries for setting up 220 MW of BSRs for their use, which is currently underway.

The proposed reforms are expected to accelerate India’s nuclear energy expansion by integrating private enterprises into the sector, potentially transforming the country’s power generation capabilities.