The Indian government has introduced the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha. The bill aims to promote the use of nuclear energy in India, aligning with the country’s long-term strategy on clean energy and climate action. The proposed legislation sets ambitious goals, including building 100 gigawatts of nuclear power capacity by 2047 and achieving a decarbonisation pathway by 2070.
The bill focuses on better utilisation of domestic nuclear resources and encourages participation from both public and private players. It also aims to establish India as a responsible stakeholder in the global nuclear energy landscape. On the regulatory front, the bill establishes a clear framework for licensing and safety approvals for entities engaged in nuclear energy production and use.
The legislation introduces a reworked civil liability regime for nuclear damage and grants statutory authority to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board. It also seeks to reinforce systems related to safety, security, safeguards, quality control, and emergency preparedness. New institutional mechanisms are proposed, including the establishment of an Atomic Energy Redressal Advisory Council and the formation of a Nuclear Damage Claims Commission.
The government’s intention is to update and strengthen nuclear governance, keeping pace with India’s evolving energy transition, technological advancements, and international commitments. The proposed legislation aims to strike a balance between expanding nuclear power capacity and ensuring safety, accountability, and public interest. By integrating nuclear energy into the country’s broader push for energy security and a low-carbon future, the government hopes to achieve its climate action goals.
The introduction of the bill demonstrates the government’s commitment to promoting nuclear energy as a clean and sustainable source of power. The proposed legislation is expected to play a crucial role in shaping India’s energy landscape and achieving its climate action targets. With its focus on safety, regulatory frameworks, and institutional mechanisms, the bill aims to ensure that nuclear energy is harnessed responsibly and effectively, contributing to the country’s energy security and low-carbon future.