Video: India Turns to Nuclear Energy to Cut Pollution

India has taken a major step toward cleaner energy as the Union Cabinet approved the SHANTI Bill—short for Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India, also referred to as the Atomic Energy Bill. The legislation allows private players to enter India’s nuclear power sector, which has so far remained under complete government control.

The new law replaces multiple older rules with a unified framework, enabling both domestic and foreign companies to participate in areas such as nuclear mineral mining, fuel production, equipment manufacturing, and holding up to a 49% stake in nuclear power projects. However, the government will retain authority over critical functions, including nuclear material handling and waste management.

To encourage investment, the bill introduces defined limits on accident liability, supported by insurance coverage and government backing. It also proposes an independent nuclear safety regulator and a dedicated court to ensure faster dispute resolution. The initiative aims to scale nuclear capacity to 100 gigawatts, attract private capital, boost employment, enhance energy security, and significantly reduce pollution.