Context:
- The Congress party accused the Union government of rushing the SHANTI Bill through Parliament to benefit foreign and private players, including alleged interests linked to Trump-era nuclear firms and Adani Group.
- The Bill received Presidential assent, enabling private sector participation in India’s nuclear energy sector.
Key Highlights:
Policy / Legislative Details:
- The SHANTI Bill amends:
- Atomic Energy Act, 1962
- Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010
- Objective: Allow private companies to participate in nuclear power generation, which was earlier a state monopoly.
Government Stand:
- Government argues the reform will:
- Boost clean energy capacity
- Reduce dependence on fossil fuels
- Strengthen energy security
- Claims amendments align India with global nuclear norms.
Opposition Concerns:
- Alleged dilution of liability provisions.
- Risk to public safety and environmental safeguards.
- Accusations of favouring corporate interests under the guise of reforms.
International Angle:
- Reference to U.S. nuclear liability framework and Reactor Management Programme.
- Concerns over external influence in strategic sectors.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Atomic Energy Act, 1962: Governs nuclear energy in India.
- Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010: Fixes operator liability in nuclear accidents.
- Issue: Entry of private sector in strategic nuclear domain.
- Benefits: Clean energy, technology infusion.
- Challenges: Safety, liability, sovereignty concerns.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Energy Security & Climate Goals:
- Role of nuclear power in India’s net-zero commitments.
- Governance & Regulation:
- Balancing private participation with strategic control.
- Keywords: Nuclear Liability, Energy Transition, Strategic Autonomy.
- Way Forward:
- Strong independent regulation.
- Transparent liability mechanisms.
- Parliamentary oversight of strategic reforms.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper III: Energy Security, Infrastructure
- GS Paper II: Parliament, Governance