SHANTI Bill Tabled to Expand India’s Nuclear Capacity
The Union government on Monday tabled the amended SHANTI Bill in Parliament, aimed at boosting India’s nuclear power capacity and modernising the country’s nuclear energy framework. The bill seeks to overhaul existing laws governing the sector to support long-term energy security and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
The proposed legislation is designed to accelerate the expansion of nuclear power as a stable and clean source of electricity, in line with India’s climate commitments and rising energy demand. Officials said nuclear energy is expected to play a key role alongside renewables in ensuring round-the-clock power supply.
Focus on Capacity Expansion and Investment
The amended bill proposes changes to the existing regulatory and operational structure to make the sector more efficient and investment-friendly. The government said the objective is to enable faster project execution, improve technology adoption, and create conditions for scaling up nuclear generation capacity over the coming decades.
The bill also addresses issues related to project clearances, safety oversight, and long-term planning, while retaining strict controls over sensitive aspects of nuclear technology.
Safety and Regulatory Oversight Emphasised
The government stressed that safety remains central to the amended framework. Provisions related to regulatory supervision, radiation safety, and emergency preparedness have been retained and strengthened. Officials said India’s nuclear plants continue to operate under globally accepted safety standards.
Next Steps in Parliament
The bill is expected to be referred to a parliamentary committee for detailed scrutiny before further debate. Opposition members have sought clarity on implementation timelines and accountability mechanisms, while the government has said stakeholder consultations will continue.
