Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi achieved a significant milestone in India’s nuclear program as he observed the commencement of “Core Loading” at the nation’s inaugural indigenous Fast Breeder Reactor (500 MWe) in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, on March 4.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi toured the Reactor Vault and Control Room, receiving detailed briefings on the reactor’s key features. This event marks India’s entry into the pivotal second stage of its three-stage nuclear program.
India’s comprehensive capabilities across the nuclear fuel cycle have been developed over the years. In 2003, the government sanctioned the establishment of Bhartiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI) to construct and operate the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR), the nation’s most advanced nuclear reactor.
In line with the ethos of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), the PFBR has been entirely designed and constructed domestically by BHAVINI, with significant contributions from over 200 Indian industries, including MSMEs. “Upon its activation, India will join Russia as one of the few countries with a commercially operational Fast Breeder Reactor.”
The PFBR will initially utilize Uranium-Plutonium Mixed Oxide (MOX) fuel. The surrounding Uranium-238 “blanket” will undergo nuclear transmutation, producing more fuel, thus earning the name ‘Breeder.’ Additionally, the use of Thorium-232 as a blanket material is envisaged for this stage, eventually leading to the production of fissile Uranium-233 for the third stage of the program.
Safety is paramount in the design of the PFBR, featuring advanced third-generation technology with inherent passive safety features ensuring a prompt and secure shutdown in emergencies. Moreover, utilizing spent fuel from the first stage minimizes nuclear waste production, thereby reducing the need for large geological disposal facilities.
Upon completion of core loading, the reactor will proceed to achieve its first approach to criticality, subsequently generating power. Remarkably, despite its advanced technology, both capital and per unit electricity costs are comparable to other nuclear and conventional power plants.
India’s nuclear power program growth is crucial for achieving energy security and sustainable development goals. “India, as a conscientious nuclear nation equipped with cutting-edge technology, remains steadfast in broadening the peaceful utilization of nuclear technology, all while prioritizing the safeguarding of nuclear materials.”
