‘Nuclear energy Bill rushed in Parliament for Trump and Adani’, Pg11

Key Highlights:

• Parliament passed the SHANTI Bill, allowing private sector participation in India's nuclear energy sector.
• The Rajya Sabha approved the Bill, which aims to make India self-reliant in nuclear energy.
• The Congress has criticized the Bill, alleging it favors U.S. interests and the Adani Group.
• Jairam Ramesh claimed the Bill dilutes provisions of the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act.

Detailed Insights:

• The SHANTI Bill (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India) seeks to reduce India's dependence on other energy sources.
• The Congress alleges the bill was fast-tracked to benefit both Donald Trump and the Adani Group, who reportedly plan to enter the nuclear energy sector.
• Concerns have been raised that the legislation weakens the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, potentially impacting liability norms for nuclear operators.
• The U.S. National Defence Authorization Act for 2026 references a joint assessment between the U.S. and India on nuclear liability rules, highlighting international interest in the matter.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Nuclear Energy: Energy released from the nucleus of an atom, used for electricity generation.
• Civil Liability: Legal responsibility for damages or losses caused to others.
• Private Participation: Involvement of non-government entities in sectors traditionally controlled by the state.