Excelsior Correspondent
NEW DELHI, Dec 5: The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, reassured the Rajya Sabha today that India’s nuclear power facilities stand among the safest worldwide, upheld by rigorous safety measures and international scrutiny. This assurance came during a response to a query regarding nuclear safety during the Question Hour.
The Minister highlighted the strict safety measures in place at every phase of nuclear plant development and operations, promising that India’s nuclear energy initiative is both secure and sustainable.
Dr. Jitendra Singh asserted that safety is the fundamental principle of India’s nuclear energy strategy. “In the Department of Atomic Energy, our motto is ‘safety first, production next.’ Every phase, from site selection to operational assessments, adheres to stringent protocols,” he stated. He detailed the comprehensive inspection processes that include quarterly evaluations during construction, semi-annual checks after a plant is operational, and a mandatory five-year license renewal.
Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed to documented successes in lowering radiation emissions, which he described as a reflection of the Department of Atomic Energy’s diligent endeavors. “On a global scale, the critical safety standard for radiation emissions from nuclear installations is 1,000 microsieverts. In our country, our facilities consistently operate well below this limit,” he articulated.
He noted remarkable advancements in radiation figures, referencing that at the Kudankulam facility, emissions have plummeted from 0.081 microsieverts a decade ago to merely 0.002 microsieverts today. Likewise, the Kalpakkam facility has shown significant reductions, with levels decreasing from 23.140 microsieverts in 2014 to 15.961 microsieverts in 2023.
India’s nuclear facilities are expertly designed to endure natural calamities such as tsunamis and floods. Dr. Jitendra Singh explained that establishments along the eastern coast are located over 1,300 kilometers from Indonesia’s tsunami-prone areas, while those on the western coast, like the Tarapur plant, are situated more than 900 kilometers from the nearest tsunami risk zone in Pakistan. Furthermore, plants are built above the highest recorded levels of flooding and sea surges to maintain safety in extreme scenarios.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also celebrated key achievements that highlight India’s rise as a leader in nuclear energy. The Kaiga Generating Station in Karnataka achieved a remarkable 962 days of uninterrupted operation, setting a global standard. Tarapur, India’s inaugural nuclear power plant, has celebrated 50 years of successful operation, a commendable milestone in the international nuclear sector.
Moreover, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that India’s nuclear initiative transcends mere electricity generation, remaining faithful to Homi Bhabha’s vision of utilizing atomic energy for peaceful applications. He pointed out that nuclear technology is being effectively leveraged in various fields, such as agriculture for developing radiation-resistant crops; food safety, through the enhancement of shelf life for perishables; healthcare, via advanced cancer therapies and medical isotope production; and security, by creating protective gear for law enforcement personnel.
In relation to the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010, Dr. Jitendra Singh clarified that the existing framework sufficiently protects public interests while promoting a conducive environment for foreign and domestic investments. The liability system primarily attributes accountability to operators, with stipulations for supplier responsibility under certain conditions.
In conclusion, Dr. Jitendra Singh asserted that India, once seen as a minor player in the field of nuclear energy, has transformed into a global frontrunner. “India is no longer merely conforming to international standards; we are now establishing benchmarks that others aim to reach,” he declared.
