Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) Drives Record Nuclear Generation and Advances Strategic Tech Capability in 2025
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) | Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL)
The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) recorded significant progress across its mandate in 2025, setting a new record for nuclear power generation while simultaneously enhancing strategic capabilities in health, materials science, and national security.
In the nuclear power sector, the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) achieved its highest-ever generation, crossing 56,681 million Units (MUs) of electricity in FY 2024–25. This record generation avoided approximately 49 million tons of CO2 emissions. Furthermore, the capacity expansion program gained momentum:
Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the 4-unit Mahi Banswara Nuclear Power Project (NPP) in Rajasthan.
The indigenous 700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR), RAPP-7 in Rajasthan, commenced commercial operation.
The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) approved pre-project activities for an additional 10 units of 700 MWe PHWRs, supplementing the 22.5 GW capacity planned by 2032.
What is a PHWR (Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor)? A Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) is a type of nuclear reactor that uses natural uranium as its fuel and heavy water (deuterium oxide) as both its coolant and moderator. India has successfully developed an indigenous 700 MWe PHWR design, which forms the backbone of the country’s current fleet expansion strategy due to its reliance on domestically available uranium fuel.
DAE also made pivotal strides in non-power applications and high-tech materials:
Healthcare: The 150-bed Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, was inaugurated. The Tata Memorial Hospital (TMC) was recognized by the IAEA as a “Rays of Hope” Anchor Center for cancer care.
Strategic Materials: An indigenously developed Certified Reference Material (CRM) for Rare Earth Elements (REEs) ore mining, named ‘Ferrocarbonatite (FC) – (BARC B1401),’ was formally released, making India the fourth country globally to possess such a standard.
Advanced Technology: DAE established India’s first Electronics-grade Boron-11 Enrichment Facility at Talcher, achieving over 99.8% purity, a key material for semiconductor applications.
Policy Relevance: The DAE’s record generation and approval for new PHWR units directly align with India’s long-term energy security goals and commitment to clean energy transition. The achievements in producing Certified Reference Materials and electronics-grade Boron-11 are crucial for securing domestic access to critical materials, supporting the ‘Make in India’ initiative in high-technology and strategic sectors like semiconductors and space.
Follow the full news here: Department of Atomic Energy Year End Review 2025