India’s Nuclear Revolution: Compact Reactors to Power Ships and Industries

India is entering a transformative phase in nuclear innovation with the development of compact nuclear reactors aimed at powering both industrial facilities and ships. The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is spearheading the creation of two Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMR) — one with a capacity of 55 MW and another of 200 MW. These small modular reactors (SMRs) are envisioned as a vital part of India’s strategy to enhance clean energy generation and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

The initiative reflects India’s growing commitment to energy self-reliance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of achieving 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047, up from the current 8.8 GW. Beyond its power-generation role, this technology could redefine how nuclear energy supports heavy industries and maritime operations.

According to the plans, the government may allow private players to operate nuclear power plants and also handle the front-end of the nuclear fuel cycle. (AI Generated Image) | Moneycontrol

A Breakthrough for Industrial and Maritime Sectors

Unlike conventional nuclear plants that require large installations, the 200 MW BSMR is designed to be compact, efficient, and versatile. Its modular nature allows it to serve energy-intensive sectors such as cement, steel, and fertilizer manufacturing, providing uninterrupted, clean power directly on site. This innovation can help industries reduce their carbon footprint while ensuring energy stability in remote or high-demand zones.

Perhaps most strikingly, these reactors are also being designed for maritime applications. The possibility of mounting compact nuclear units on merchant ships or cargo vessels could drastically cut carbon emissions from the shipping sector — one of the world’s largest polluters. By exploring nuclear propulsion beyond military submarines, India is positioning itself at the forefront of civilian maritime nuclear technology.

Legal and Policy Shifts to Empower Innovation

To bring this nuclear leap into reality, the Indian government is preparing major amendments to the Atomic Energy Act (1962) and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLND). The proposed changes aim to enable private participation in nuclear projects, allowing companies to operate nuclear facilities and even import nuclear fuel under strict regulatory oversight.

Officials have also hinted at clarifying liability definitions to ensure safety while encouraging private investment. This could make India one of the few nations to blend public-sector nuclear expertise with private-sector agility — a move seen as essential to achieving the ambitious 2047 energy targets.

Strategic Context and Global Significance

India’s focus on small modular reactors mirrors a global trend. Across the world, SMRs are being pursued as safer, scalable, and more cost-effective alternatives to traditional nuclear plants. Countries like the United States, Russia, and China are already advancing similar technologies for both industrial and marine use.

By venturing into nuclear-powered commercial shipping, India could revolutionize maritime logistics and establish itself as a strategic innovator in global trade routes. This aligns with New Delhi’s larger geopolitical vision of energy independence and its ambition to emerge as a global clean-tech leader.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the enthusiasm, several challenges remain. Building a robust regulatory framework, ensuring public confidence in nuclear safety, and managing the costs of deployment are critical factors. Nuclear energy remains capital-intensive and slow to implement compared to renewables like solar or wind. However, experts argue that the reliability, energy density, and zero-carbon output of SMRs make them indispensable in India’s long-term decarbonisation journey.

As construction timelines for the first prototype are expected to range from five to six years, success will depend on how efficiently India balances innovation with safety and economic feasibility.

The MGMM Outlook

India is embarking on a transformative journey in nuclear energy with the development of compact Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMRs) designed for both industrial and maritime use. Led by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, these reactors, with capacities of 55 MW and 200 MW, represent a strategic shift toward clean, self-reliant energy. By integrating small modular reactors into factories and heavy industries, India aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, ensure uninterrupted power supply, and lower industrial carbon footprints. These innovations also reflect a broader national ambition to achieve 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047, highlighting the country’s commitment to energy sovereignty and environmental stewardship.

Beyond industrial applications, India’s pursuit of nuclear-powered civilian ships could redefine maritime logistics and significantly cut emissions in one of the world’s most polluting sectors. Legal and policy reforms are underway to allow private participation in nuclear projects while maintaining safety and accountability, potentially blending public-sector expertise with private-sector efficiency. As India navigates the challenges of regulatory frameworks, public trust, and deployment costs, these compact reactors are positioned as crucial instruments for long-term decarbonisation and technological leadership on the global stage.

(Sources: Moneycontrol, Economic Times, Business Standard)