Lok Sabha Q&A: India Charts 2031-32 Nuclear Capacity Target; Balancing Ambition, Technology & Private Participation
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | SDG 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
Department of Atomic Energy (DAE)
The Government addressed an Unstarred Question in the Lok Sabha on December 10, 2025, regarding the India’s nuclear-power generation. India’s nuclear-power generation — which contributed about 3.1% of total electricity in 2024-25 — is projected to grow significantly. The current installed capacity is 8.78 GW (excluding RAPS-1, 100 MW). The government aims to expand this to 22.38 GW by 2031-32 through deployment of indigenous 700 MW reactors and new 1000 MW units under international cooperation. Beyond this, the government’s long-term vision under the Nuclear Energy Mission targets 100 GW by 2047.
The slow historical growth is attributed to early technological constraints, international embargoes, and resource limitations. To accelerate capacity build-up, the government has signalled intent to amend the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 to permit private-sector and foreign participation in reactor operations (today, FDI is only allowed in nuclear-equipment manufacturing).
Policy Relevance
The updated target trajectory — 22.38 GW by 2031-32 and 100 GW by 2047 — marks a strong recommitment to nuclear energy as a core pillar of India’s low-carbon, energy-security strategy. Opening up the sector to private and foreign players could mobilise additional investment, accelerate deployment, introduce modern technology, and diversify funding sources. However, scaling up nuclear capacity will require robust regulatory frameworks, strengthened safety protocols, supply-chain readiness, and substantial upfront capital.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
As India seeks to expand nuclear capacity rapidly, how can policymakers ensure that scaling-up under private and foreign participation maintains high safety, regulatory oversight, and public trust?
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Lok Sabha UNSTARRED Question No. 1638 answer, 10 Dec 2025.