How India is overhauling its nuclear power regime, Pg22

Key Highlights:

• The SHANTI Bill 2025 was passed in Parliament, allowing private sector participation in India's nuclear power sector.
• This bill will replace the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010.
• The law aims to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047.
• The bill retains central government control over sensitive activities like enrichment of radioactive substances.
• It grants statutory status to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).
• The new law adopts graded liability caps for nuclear power operators based on the size of the installation.

Detailed Insights:

• The SHANTI Bill permits private companies to establish nuclear plants and engage in activities like transport, storage, and import/export of nuclear materials.
• All entities must obtain safety authorization from the AERB for activities involving radioactive substances and radiation-generating equipment.
• The bill does not explicitly allow foreign investment, but rules are expected to align with government guidelines for foreign equity participation.
• A contentious change is the removal of the "right of recourse," limiting the ability of nuclear plant operators to seek compensation from equipment suppliers in case of accidents.
• The obligation to maintain insurance policies applies only to private operators, while the Centre can establish a Nuclear Liability Fund.
• The AERB gains statutory status, addressing concerns about its dependence on the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and conflicts of interest.
• The bill establishes the Atomic Energy Redressal Advisory Council for dispute resolution and the Nuclear Damage Claims Commission for severe damage cases.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB): India's regulatory body for nuclear and radiation safety.
• Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA): Law governing compensation for nuclear damage.
• Right of Recourse: The right of a nuclear operator to seek compensation from suppliers in case of an accident.