N-power Bill introduced; permits pvt operators, limits supplier liability, Pg16

Key Highlights:

• The SHANTI Bill, 2025 was introduced in the Lok Sabha to allow private sector participation in India's nuclear power sector.
• The Bill aims to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, replacing the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010.
• It removes the 'right of recourse' provision, limiting supplier liability in nuclear accidents, which was a concern for foreign vendors.
• The Bill specifies graded liability caps for nuclear operators, ranging from Rs 100 crore to Rs 3,000 crore, based on reactor size.

Detailed Insights:

• The SHANTI Bill facilitates private sector involvement in nuclear activities like plant setup, fuel transport/storage, and import/export of nuclear materials.
• All entities require safety authorization from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board for radioactive substances and radiation-generating equipment.
• The central government retains control over sensitive activities like enrichment, spent fuel management, and heavy water production.
• The Bill establishes new institutions such as the Atomic Energy Redressal Advisory Council, Claims Commissioners, and a Nuclear Damage Claims Commission.
• A Nuclear Liability Fund will be established by the central government to meet liabilities arising from nuclear incidents.
• The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 was enacted to provide compensation to victims of nuclear incidents through a no-fault liability regime.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Atomic Energy Regulatory Board: India's nuclear regulatory body, responsible for nuclear and radiation safety.
• Nuclear Liability Fund: A fund established by the government to compensate victims in the event of a nuclear accident.
• Right of Recourse: The right of a nuclear operator to seek compensation from suppliers for damages caused by defective equipment.