With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its... | UPSC 2018 GS3 Q16

QUESTION 16

GS3

15 marks

With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy.

WRITE IN

11 min

250 words

What the examiner wants

Take a view on whether India should expand nuclear power, weighing facts and fears.

DiscussExplain the different sides of the issue, use evidence, and finish with a balanced view.

1Facts for: low-carbon baseload power, high capacity factor, three-stage programme to use thorium, energy security≈50 words
2Facts against: high capital cost, long gestation, small share (about 3% of electricity), fuel supply dependence≈50 words
3Fears: accidents (Fukushima 2011), radiation, waste disposal, displacement, local protests (Kudankulam, Jaitapur), liability≈50 words
4Way forward: fleet mode PHWRs, small modular reactors, safety regulator independence, local consent≈50 words

Open in about 30 words and close in about 30.

Energy needFactsFearsBalanced standMeasuresConclusion

PolicyCabinet approved 10 indigenous 700 MW PHWRs in fleet mode in May 2017.Union Cabinet, 2017
PolicyNuclear Energy Mission (Budget 2025-26) targets 100 GW nuclear by 2047 with ₹20,000 crore for small modular reactors.Union Budget 2025-26
LawSection 17(b) of the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 gives operators recourse against suppliers, a concern for foreign vendors.CLND Act, 2010

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