Mumbai, Sept. 2 -- An official factsheet said India operates 24 nuclear power reactors with a total installed capacity of eight point seven eight GW and has nine reactor units with a combined seven point five GW under construction as it advances to achieving 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047. The figures reflect the current operating fleet and projects under way to expand baseload generation over the coming decades. The factsheet, released on Friday, set out targets and the status of ongoing initiatives.
Recent policy initiatives, including the Nuclear Energy Mission (2025-26) and the SHANTI Act, 2025, are accelerating capacity expansion, strengthening domestic manufacturing and promoting innovation while enabling greater private sector participation. The measures are intended to attract investment across design, component manufacture and construction supply chains. They also aim to streamline project delivery and support technology absorption across the industry.
The government has approved 10 indigenous Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) in fleet mode and is progressing pre-project activities for two 500 MW Fast Breeder Reactors (FBR). Fleet mode approvals are designed to standardise design and shorten timelines.
India's nuclear strategy emphasises technological self-reliance developed to overcome historical fuel embargoes and to harness the country's vast thorium reserves through its three-stage nuclear power programme. The programme allows a phased transition from uranium- to thorium-based fuel cycles while fostering domestic research and industry capability. Officials framed this approach as central to long-term energy independence.
The factsheet highlighted that India is among the few countries with vitrification technology for high-level radioactive waste, a process that converts such waste into a stable glass form for safer long-term storage, transport and eventual disposal. This capability supports responsible waste management as capacity expands and authorities continue to strengthen regulations and facilities for handling.
The government has placed nuclear energy at the core of its long-term energy strategy, recognising the role of round-the-clock, low-carbon electricity in complementing renewable sources and ensuring grid stability. Nuclear power reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels and supports climate commitments while advancing indigenous innovation and supply chain development.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.