What does the SHANTI Bill change?, Pg10

Key Highlights:

• The SHANTI Bill aims to open India's nuclear power sector to private and foreign participation, previously state-controlled since 1956.
• It allows up to 49% private participation while the government retains 51% control over sensitive nuclear activities.
• The Bill ends the monopoly of NPCIL in plant operations, enabling private companies and joint ventures to build and operate nuclear plants.
• The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) is given statutory status, making it answerable to Parliament.
• Liability caps are fixed: ₹3,000 crore for large plants, ₹1,500 crore for medium plants, and ₹100 crore for Small Modular Reactors.
• The government aims to achieve net-zero targets by 2070 and strengthen energy security by diversifying the power mix.

Detailed Insights:

• The SHANTI Bill facilitates advanced nuclear technologies like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and indigenous reactor designs, supporting the clean energy transition.
• The AERB is responsible for nuclear safety, radiation protection, and emergency preparedness, playing a crucial role with increased private sector involvement.
• The government controls the reprocessing of spent fuel, heavy water production, and enrichment of radioactive substances, ensuring strategic oversight.
• The Bill establishes a nuclear liability fund for compensation in case of accidents, with the government bearing liability beyond the operator's cap.
• The Centre aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and fuel imports, expanding atomic energy capacity for energy security and economic development.
• The Bill may revive stalled civil nuclear deals with the U.S., France, and Japan, reducing dependence on Russia and enhancing India’s global image.
• The Opposition criticizes the Bill for diluting accountability, removing supplier liability, and compromising public safety by capping operator liability.
• Concerns are raised about Section 39 overriding the RTI Act, restricting access to crucial nuclear sector information and diluting transparency.
• Section 42 overrides occupational safety for nuclear facilities, triggering opposition from trade unions who term the Bill "draconian."

Key Concepts Involved:

• Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Nuclear reactors that are smaller than conventional reactors, offering increased flexibility and scalability.
• Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB): The regulatory body responsible for nuclear and radiation safety in India.
• Nuclear Liability Fund: A fund established to provide compensation in the event of a nuclear accident.