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India is set to revolutionize its nuclear sector, allowing private firms to mine, import, and process uranium, ending the decades-long state monopoly in the industry. This move is part of a broader plan to expand nuclear power capacity 12-fold by 2047, prioritizing clean energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
The government is currently drafting a new regulatory framework to enable private Indian companies to participate in uranium mining, imports, and processing, as well as supply critical control systems equipment to nuclear power plants. This policy shift aims to attract billions of dollars in investment, accelerate exploration and extraction of uranium, and strengthen supply security for India’s expanding nuclear fleet.
However, the government will retain control over sensitive areas such as spent fuel reprocessing and plutonium waste management, consistent with international norms due to concerns about nuclear material misuse, radiation safety, and strategic security. Existing laws will require amendments to accommodate private sector participation, with modifications needed in at least five laws governing mining, electricity, and foreign direct investment regulations.
It is important to note that private entities are not permitted to explore or mine atomic minerals offshore, and such rights remain with government entities. This compliance is in line with the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) (Amendment) Act, 2023.
This liberalization aligns India more closely with countries like Canada, South Africa, and the USA, where private firms actively mine and process uranium. The policy is expected to be officially announced within the current fiscal year (2025) as part of India’s broader ambition to reach a 12-fold increase in nuclear power capacity by 2047, with nuclear energy ultimately delivering around 5% of the country’s power needs.
Charudatta Palekar, an independent power sector consultant, described the government's initiative as "major and bold" and critical for achieving the target. Some of India's big conglomerates have already started drawing up investment plans following the government's announcement.
However, analysts have noted that amending the relevant legislation could be complex. The Finance Ministry, Department of Atomic Energy, and Prime Minister’s Office did not respond to requests for comment regarding the proposed policy.
India has an estimated 76,000 tonnes of uranium, enough to fuel 10,000 megawatts of nuclear power for 30 years. However, domestic uranium resources will only be able to meet approximately 25% of the projected increase in nuclear power production. The remaining uranium needed for the expansion of nuclear power will have to be imported, and India will need to increase its processing capacity.
This progressive policy is expected to boost the nuclear industry and contribute significantly to India's clean energy goals, making it an exciting development in the country's energy sector.
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