India moves closer to nuclear fuel self-reliance

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NEW DELHI: India has made a significant leap toward nuclear fuel self-reliance with the successful commencement of core loading at its first indigenous Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) in Kalpakkam. This milestone, overseen by the Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), marks the operational beginning of the second stage of India’s ambitious three-stage nuclear power program. 

Unlike conventional reactors, the 500 MWe fast breeder reactor is designed to produce more fuel than it consumes by converting Uranium-238 into Plutonium-239.

This technological breakthrough is strategically vital as it allows India to maximize its limited domestic uranium reserves. By recycling spent fuel, the PFBR creates a bridge to the third stage of the program, which aims to utilize India's vast thorium deposits for virtually inexhaustible clean energy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the achievement as a historic step for the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, positioning India alongside a select group of nations, including Russia and China, that possess advanced breeder technology. This progress solidifies India's path toward long-term energy security and sustainable, low-carbon power generation.

Photo Credits: Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant: Wikipedia