India targets 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047 amid energy diversification plan

India is dramatically accelerating its nuclear power ambitions, targeting a monumental 100 GW capacity by 2047, a more than tenfold increase from its current 8.8 GW, as evidenced by recent critical milestones. This month, the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) successfully installed the Reactor Pressure Vessel (RPV) at Kudankulam Unit-5, marking a pivotal step in expanding its Light Water Reactor fleet. This follows the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam achieving 'first criticality' in April 2026, propelling India into the second stage of its strategic Three-Stage Nuclear Power Programme and bolstering its long-term energy self-reliance. This aggressive nuclear push is central to India's broader energy diversification plan and its 'Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan' for energy independence by 2047, aiming to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels while meeting soaring electricity demand and its 2070 net-zero emissions target. The Union Budget 2025-26 launched the Nuclear Energy Mission with a significant Rs 20,000 crore allocation for Small Modular Reactor (SMR) research and development, alongside the SHANTI Act enabling greater private and foreign participation. Despite current nuclear power contributing only around 3% to the grid, the country is projecting to reach 22 GW by 2031-32, emphasizing the need for robust domestic manufacturing, a secure uranium supply chain, and streamlined regulatory reforms to attract the estimated Rs 23-25 lakh crore in investment required. Looking ahead, India is developing three indigenous SMR designs, including the 200 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR-200), with lead units planned for construction by 2033. The focus will be on accelerating fleet-mode construction for both indigenous Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) and imported Light Water Reactors, alongside fostering international collaborations for technology and fuel. The coming years will test India's ability to navigate complex challenges, including land acquisition, workforce development, and securing long-term uranium supplies, as it strives to transform its energy landscape and establish nuclear power as a cornerstone of its industrial future.