The Nuclear Energy Mission (NEM) was launched under the Union Budget 2025–26 to fast-track India’s nuclear energy capacity and technological self-reliance.

Target

• It targets 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047, aligning with India’s Viksit Bharat and Net Zero by 2070 goals

Objectives

• Develop Indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): At least five SMRs to be operational by 2033.
• Private Sector Participation: Proposed changes to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, aim to encourage private sector involvement in nuclear energy projects.
• Boost Nuclear Capacity: From the current ~8.78 GW (2026) to 22 GW by 2031–32, and ultimately 100 GW by 2047.
• Indigenous Technology Development: The mission emphasizes the development of BSRs, which are compact 220 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) designed for captive use.

Source: PIB