[Answered] The revival of the Indo-US nuclear deal and proposed legislative reforms offer a unique opportunity to unlock India’s nuclear energy potential. Discuss the significance of aligning India’s liability framework with global norms and suggest measures to accelerate the country’s clean energy transition through nuclear power.

The Indo-US nuclear deal, reaffirmed in recent diplomatic engagements, holds strategic importance for India’s energy security. The 123 Agreement enabled India to access nuclear technology despite being a non-signatory to the NPT, but challenges like restrictive US regulations and India’s stringent liability laws have hindered progress. Addressing these issues through legislative reforms can help India achieve its target of 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047.

Significance of Aligning India’s Liability Framework with Global Norms

• Attracting Foreign Investment: India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act, 2010, deviates from international norms like the Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC), making foreign suppliers hesitant. Aligning with global practices by limiting supplier liability to intentional damage or contractual agreements can boost investor confidence.
• Strengthening Technological Cooperation: The removal of Indian nuclear entities from the US “Entity List” in 2025 facilitates technology transfers, fostering partnerships in projects like Kovvada (Westinghouse) and Jaitapur (EDF).
• Enhancing Energy Security and Climate Goals: Nuclear energy, with its low-carbon footprint, is crucial for reducing fossil fuel dependence and achieving India’s clean energy ambitions.
• Boosting Domestic Nuclear Capacity: India aims to increase its nuclear power contribution from the current 3% to at least 10% by 2047. Easier investment norms can help in setting up more reactors.

Measures to Accelerate Nuclear Energy Adoption

• Reforming Liability Laws: Amendments to the CLND Act and Atomic Energy Act, 1962, allowing private sector participation while ensuring accountability.
• Facilitating Joint Reactor Development: Enabling manufacturing of American-designed reactors in India by amending the 10CFR810 clause.
• Expanding Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging domestic firms through regulatory reforms and financial incentives.
• Ensuring Safety and Accountability: Learning from disasters like Chornobyl and Bhopal to build a robust regulatory framework.
• Developing Indigenous Technologies: Strengthening research in thorium-based reactors, given India’s vast thorium reserves.
• Expediting Regulatory Clearances: Simplifying land acquisition and environmental approvals for faster reactor construction.

Conclusion

By balancing liability reforms with safety measures, India can position itself as a global leader in next-generation nuclear technology, driving a sustainable and energy-secure future.