2018 · GS Paper 3 · Q16 · 15 marks
With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy.
In short
India should keep expanding nuclear energy as clean baseload power complementing renewables, while answering fears over safety, cost, liability and waste through independent regulation. Nuclear supplied about 3.1% of electricity in 2024-25 against a 100 GW target by 2047.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 262 words
Clean baseload
Nuclear runs round the clock with lifecycle emissions of about 12 g CO2 per kWh (IPCC AR5), filling the gap that solar leaves at night.
Capability and plan
Indigenous 700 MWe PHWRs, ten approved in fleet mode, and the Rs 20,000 crore SMR mission (Budget 2025-26) back the target.
Fuel security
India's vast thorium reserves promise long-term fuel through the three-stage programme.
Safety
Fukushima (2011) fed the Kudankulam protests, though the Supreme Court (2013) allowed the plant with 15 safety directions.
Regulatory trust
The CAG (2012) found AERB lacking statutory independence.
Cost and liability
Jaitapur and Kovvada stalled as supplier liability under the 2010 Act deterred vendors, while solar fell to Rs 2.15 per unit.
Waste and fuel
Long-lived spent fuel, mining health concerns at Jaduguda and reliance on imported uranium remain concerns.
Trust and reform
A functionally independent regulator, the SHANTI Act (2025) and Bharat Small Reactors at retiring coal sites can ease these fears.
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This chapter in the exam
Developments, Applications and Effects in Everyday Life23 questions
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2018 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.