India's Nuclear Push Welcomes Foreign Reactor Designs

India wants to massively boost nuclear power. The country aims to hit 100 gigawatts in twenty years. That is twelve times current capacity. As the third biggest carbon emitter, this matters for climate goals. Private money and outside know-how are essential.

On Friday, the government shared draft rules for private nuclear projects. These rules let foreign reactor designs in if they have a solid track record abroad. It is the clearest sign yet that the sector is opening up. Still, the state keeps tight control over licensing and strategic materials.

For decades, India's nuclear industry stayed in state hands. A 1974 test brought global restrictions on fuel and technology. Last year, lawmakers changed the atomic energy act to allow private firms to build and run plants. The new draft goes further by spelling out a step-by-step approval path.

Companies first get a green light to line up vendors, do early studies, and lock down land. Then they need a formal license. After that, regulators watch every stage: design, site prep, construction, startup, and operation. Officials can stop work at any major milestone if something looks off.

Developers must prove their reactor design has run successfully in its home country. They also have to set aside money for liability, decommissioning, and waste handling. A detailed plan for radioactive waste is mandatory. The draft is now open for public comment before becoming final.