Fri Mar 21 07:57:22 UTC 2025: ## IAEA Chief Praises India’s Ambitious Nuclear Expansion Plan, Urges Regulatory Independence

**New Delhi, India** – Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has lauded India’s nuclear program as safe and well-managed during a recent visit. He expressed confidence in India’s ability to achieve its ambitious goal of reaching 100 gigawatts (GW) of installed nuclear capacity by 2047, a significant expansion from its current output. Grossi highlighted India’s technological prowess, industrial base, and skilled workforce as key factors in this endeavor.

The planned expansion is driven by India’s burgeoning economy and commitment to clean energy, with nuclear power seen as a reliable and flexible solution to meet growing energy demands. Grossi specifically praised India’s exploration of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), including the indigenous Bharat Small Reactor (BSR), as a crucial step towards decarbonizing energy-intensive industries. He noted the advantages of SMRs in terms of faster deployment and accessibility for both large and developing nations.

While commending India’s progress, Grossi stressed the importance of an independent nuclear regulator, advocating for the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) to be separated from the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). He argued that this independence is crucial for maintaining objectivity and ensuring robust safety and security standards.

Grossi also offered a measured assessment of global nuclear governance, acknowledging challenges to the “Atoms for Peace” ideal. While acknowledging the increase in nuclear-armed nations, he emphasized the IAEA’s role in containing proliferation and promoting the peaceful uses of nuclear technology in areas like medicine and agriculture. He highlighted concerns about rising nuclear proliferation fears in Europe amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics.

Grossi further recognized India’s unique end-to-end capabilities in its nuclear program, from uranium mining to spent fuel reprocessing. He voiced his support for India’s full membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). He addressed the ongoing debate surrounding India’s Civil Nuclear Liability Act, suggesting dialogue to find a solution that balances liability and industry needs. Finally, he acknowledged India’s pioneering work with thorium-based nuclear energy, highlighting its potential for future applications despite the current dominance of uranium.

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