Parliament has passed the SHANTI Bill, enabling private companies to construct and operate nuclear power plants and easing liability for suppliers despite opposition concerns. The government says the reform will scale reliable 24x7 nuclear capacity, while critics warn of weakened accountability and sought a select committee review, which was rejected.
Parliament cleared the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, with the Rajya Sabha passing it by voice vote a day after Lok Sabha approval. The legislation opens India’s civil nuclear sector to private participation and advances long-term capacity expansion goals.
The government argues nuclear power offers dependable, round-the-clock supply, and that safeguards remain intact. Opposition parties raised alarms over the removal of supplier liability and pushed for referral to a select committee, which was turned down, reflecting a sharp policy pivot to attract investment and technology.
Bill summaries indicate SHANTI replaces parts of existing frameworks, enabling licenses to non-government entities and rationalizing liability and compensation mechanisms, aiming to streamline project development while redefining accountability structures.
Major takeaways
Private entry: Licenses for private firms to build and operate nuclear plants approved.
Liability change: Contentious supplier liability diluted; opposition flagged accountability concerns.
Voice vote: Rajya Sabha passed the bill; select committee demands rejected.
Energy rationale: Government emphasizes nuclear as reliable 24x7 power with safeguards maintained.
Framework update: Bill revises licensing and liability landscape to accelerate capacity growth.
Conclusion
SHANTI marks a structural reset of India’s nuclear sector—inviting private capital and technology, while sparking debate on risk-sharing. Implementation details on safety, regulation, and compensation will be pivotal to balancing expansion with public trust.
Sources: Livemint; The Hindu; OneIndia; The Hindu (Lok Sabha); PRS Legislative Research; Hindustan Times