MR Srinivasan: A Key Architect of India’s Nuclear Programme

Syllabus: GS3/Science & Technology

Context

• Recently, Dr. M.R. Srinivasan, renowned nuclear scientist and former Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) chairman passed away.

India’s Nuclear Programme

• It has been a cornerstone of its energy strategy, balancing self-reliance, technological advancement, and global cooperation, with the focus on clean energy and strategic security.

Historical Development

• The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) was established in 1948 under Dr. Homi Bhabha. It was structured into a three-stage plan:
  • Stage I: Utilization of Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) using natural uranium.
  • Stage II: Development of Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) to generate plutonium.
  • Stage III: Deployment of Advanced Thorium Reactors, leveraging India’s vast thorium reserves.
    • India holds 21% of the world’s thorium reserves, with indigenous projects like Bhavani aiming to harness this resource.

Current Status

• Installed Capacity: India operates 23 nuclear reactors across seven power plants, contributing to 8,180 MW (2024 data) of electricity (4,780 MW in 2014).
  • It is projected to reach 22,480 MW by 2031-32.

Energy Mix and Role of Nuclear Power

• Renewable Shift: India is transitioning towards clean energy, with nuclear power playing a crucial role in reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
• Grid Distribution: The revised framework allocates 50% of nuclear-generated electricity to home states, 35% to neighboring states, and 15% to the national grid.

Recent Advancements

• Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR): India has entered Stage II of its nuclear programme with the core-loading of the PFBR at Kalpakkam.
• Expansion Plans: 10 new reactors are approved and exploring private sector participation to accelerate growth, including Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMRs).
• International Collaborations: India has signed agreements with Russia, France, and the U.S. for nuclear technology exchange.

Source: TH