Parliament Unlocks Nuclear Sector: Private Players Get Green Light with New Atomic Energy Bill

In a landmark reform, the lower house of Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha) approved the new Atomic Energy Bill, marking the end of decades-long monopoly by public sector entities in nuclear power development. The bill allows private companies to invest in fuel fabrication, heavy water production, and reactor components manufacturing.

This progressive step addresses India's pressing need to scale nuclear capacity from current ~7 GW to 22 GW by 2031, supporting the nation's net-zero ambitions. Private participation will bring capital, innovation, and faster project execution, though core activities like mining and reactor operation remain under government control.

The bill now awaits Rajya Sabha approval and presidential assent.

Key Highlights:

Key Reform: Private entry into fuel fabrication, heavy water, reactor parts.

Capacity Goal: Scale nuclear power to 22 GW by 2031.

State Role: Retains control over mining, reactors, safety protocols.

Impact: Attracts ₹2-3 trillion private investment in nuclear ecosystem.

Next Step: Rajya Sabha passage required for enactment.

Source: Lok Sabha proceedings and government announcements, December 17, 2025.