Overview

• The government has opened the nuclear energy sector to private companies to bolster investment and fortify energy security
• The deadline for proposals under the Bharat Small Modular Reactor programme has been extended to September 30, 2025 in response to strong industry interest
• Ministers have issued directives to standardize documentation, synchronize licensing, shorten approval timelines and invest in technical upgradation
• Officials confirmed the plan to expand capacity from 8.8 GW to 22 GW by 2032 remains on schedule with further targets of 49 GW by 2037, 67 GW by 2042 and 100 GW by 2047
• Three indigenous SMR designs are under development, including a variant dedicated to hydrogen production for energy-intensive industries