SHANTI Bill and Reform of India's Nuclear Sector

Core Update

The SHANTI Bill has been introduced as a major science-led reform to modernise India's nuclear sector and expand its role in clean energy and civilian applications.

What is the SHANTI Bill?

A legislative reform aimed at unlocking India's civil nuclear potential while maintaining commitments to peaceful use, safety and sovereignty.

Key Reform Outcomes

• Breaks a six-decade policy stalemate in the nuclear sector
• Enables expansion of nuclear energy for:
  • Clean power generation
  • Medical applications
  • Advanced research
• Excludes any non-peaceful use

Energy Transition Context

• Nuclear capacity increased from 4.4 GW (2014) to ~8.7 GW (2025)
• Target: ~100 GW by 2047
• Nuclear to contribute ~10% of electricity needs
• Supports Net Zero commitments

Technology Linkages

• Supports AI, quantum and data-driven economy
• Enables round-the-clock baseload power
• Focus on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) for urban and industrial zones

UPSC Relevance

• GS-III: Nuclear energy, clean energy transition
• GS-II: Science policy and legislation

Prelims Trap Alert

⚠️ SHANTI Bill focuses on civilian nuclear use. SMRs ≠ large conventional reactors.

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