NUCLEAR ENERGY SUMMIT BRUSSELS 2024
(March 21, 2024)
Statement by India
Delivered by Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission & Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy
His Excellency Prime Minister of Belgium Mr. Alexander De Croo, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Mr. Rafael Grossi, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen,
Namaste and good afternoon. It is an honour for me to represent the India at this August forum. On behalf of Government of India, I warmly greet the distinguished delegates gathered here today.
Excellencies,
India is committed to achieve the Net Zero emissions target by 2070 as announced by our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Glasgow, United Kingdom in November 2021.
In this regard, India has initiated steps to increase the share of nuclear power capacity. India firmly believes that nuclear power is a clean and environment friendly source of electricity, which is available 24X7, and can provide the country long-term energy security in a sustainable manner. The growth of the Indian nuclear power programme is imperative to meet the twin goals of energy security and sustainable development.
Excellencies,
Our aim is for nuclear energy to have significant share in electricity mix of India by the year 2047 when India celebrates 100 years of independence. As a medium-term target, we aim to achieve tripling nuclear power generation capacity by 2030 from around 7.5 GW at present.
Excellencies,
You may be aware that India has a three stage nuclear power programme, with a mature first stage. Recently, India has added two indigenously designed 700 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR), the Kakrapar Atomic Power Project – Unit 3 & 4. 9 more reactors are under construction. Additionally, the Government has accorded administrative approval for 10 such reactors to be set up in fleet mode.
Excellencies,
Recently, in a historic milestone marking entry into the vital second stage of our three stage nuclear power programme, the “Core Loading” took place at our first indigenous Fast Breeder Reactor (500 MWe). We are also considering steps for development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR). This is a testament to India’s scientific and engineering capability.
Excellencies,
India is committed to full international civil nuclear cooperation for the development needs of our country and is engaged in discussions with foreign companies to further expand our nuclear energy programme.
Excellencies,
As a responsible nuclear power with advanced technology, India remains committed to expand peaceful applications of nuclear technology, both in power and non-power sector, while ensuring the security of nuclear and radiological materials. India has a robust nuclear safety culture and impeccable safety record. India will continue to support the Agency in its efforts to provide a robust, sustainable and visible global nuclear safety and security framework.
Excellencies,
We thank the city of Brussels, the people and the Government of Belgium and the Agency for hosting the 1st Nuclear Energy Summit.
I thank you all for your kind attention.
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