New Delhi
India has set an ambitious goal to expand its nuclear power capacity to at least 100 gigawatts (GW) by 2047, coinciding with the centenary of its independence.
The move reflects the country’s long-term strategy to strengthen energy security, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and transition toward cleaner energy sources.
According to a recent report by Khaleej Times, India currently operates 24 nuclear reactors with a combined capacity of 8,780 megawatts electric (MWe). Additionally, eight reactors with a total capacity of 6,028 MWe are under construction. Government projections suggest that nuclear capacity will increase to around 22 GW by the early 2030s, before witnessing a substantial scale-up to meet the 100 GW target by 2047.
To achieve this significant expansion, India is adopting a dual strategy that combines the development of large-scale reactors and smaller modular systems. The country is focusing on indigenous 700 MWe pressurised heavy water reactors (PHWRs) as well as importing high-capacity reactors for greenfield projects. At the same time, innovative technologies such as Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMRs) with 200 MWe capacity and smaller SMR-55 units are being developed to ensure flexibility and faster deployment.
A major milestone in India’s nuclear journey was reached on April 6, 2026, when the 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu achieved first criticality. This marks the initiation of a controlled nuclear fission chain reaction and represents a key advancement in indigenous nuclear technology. The achievement is expected to significantly enhance fuel efficiency and sustainability in the long run.
India’s nuclear programme is guided by a well-defined three-stage strategy aimed at optimising its limited uranium resources while tapping into abundant thorium reserves. The first stage involves PHWRs powered by natural uranium, which produce plutonium as a by-product. In the second stage, fast breeder reactors utilise this plutonium to generate more fissile material than they consume. The final stage envisions thorium-based reactors that produce uranium-233, enabling sustainable and long-term nuclear power generation.
As India moves forward with its ambitious plans, nuclear energy is set to play a critical role in meeting rising electricity demand while supporting the country’s climate commitments and clean energy transition.
