Editorial: Responsible nuclear power – Telangana Today

India must step up efforts to increase nuclear power generation for a green and clean world

Exactly 25 years ago, India entered the global nuclear high table with the successful implementation of Pokhran-II, which shocked the world and attracted international sanctions. In retrospect, however, it proved to be the right decision, helping to boost the country’s image as a responsible nuclear power with an impeccable non-proliferation record. Shortly after the test, India’s foreign policy establishment faced its biggest challenge outside of economic and military sanctions, but it ultimately succeeded in convincing the international community that the country was committed to the peaceful use of nuclear technology. At the time, a nuclear test was needed to end India’s international isolation. They laid the groundwork for rapprochement with the global nuclear order and redefined the country’s relationship with the United States. India’s reputation as a responsible nuclear-weapon state was finally vindicated by the 2008 civilian nuclear agreement with the United States. This was followed by waivers from the NSG (Nuclear Suppliers Group) and nuclear cooperation around the world. While a nuclear arsenal is a credible minimum deterrent, what sets India apart from its nuclear-armed neighbors is its “no first use” policy. While India separated its civilian and military programs and developed a nuclear doctrine, Pakistan embarked on a riskier path of developing tactical nuclear weapons. The NSG waiver earned India the right to trade in civilian nuclear fuel and technology. This is expected to boost nuclear power in India’s energy basket. At the time, India’s 22 nuclear power plants were operating at less than 40% capacity. It then began signing agreements with foreign countries to establish nuclear parks in the country.

Ideally, complete nuclear disarmament should be a global goal. However, given current geopolitical realities, it is unlikely to happen anytime soon. While India has achieved its military goals with Pokhran-I and II, it is still a work in progress in terms of using nuclear technology to meet its energy needs. Currently, nuclear power accounts for only 2% of installed capacity. Nuclear energy remains one of the important sources of non-fossil and clean fuels, and greater efforts must be made to expand nuclear power generation. The center needs to meet its goal of building 10 new 700 MW indigenous PHWRs (pressurized heavy water reactors) by 2031. The nuclear deal, signed by the UPA-I government over the objections of its leftist allies, opens up new avenues for nuclear business in the country, ending long-term international isolation caused by nuclear tests. The NSG agreement provides an opportunity to source fuel from other countries. India now has civil nuclear energy cooperation agreements with various countries including France, Russia, the United Kingdom, the United States and Japan. International experience needs to be leveraged to improve the efficiency of project implementation, operations and possible expansion.