Q. With growing energy needs, should India keep expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy. (250 words, 15 marks)

Demand of the Question 15 Marks

• Contextual Introduction: Briefly introduce India’s rising energy demand and the relevance of nuclear energy in the present scenario.
• Core Issue: Examine whether India should continue expanding its nuclear energy programme to meet future energy needs.
• Facts: Discuss the advantages of nuclear energy such as energy security, low carbon emissions, development needs, and strategic importance.
• Fears & Challenges: Analyse concerns related to nuclear safety, waste disposal, health risks, displacement, and high costs.

Introduction

India’s rapid economic growth, urbanisation and climate commitments are sharply increasing energy demand. NITI Aayog estimates that by 2032, India must multiply its primary energy supply 3–4 times and electricity capacity 5–6 times (from 2003–04 levels). In this context, nuclear energy is often projected as a reliable, low-carbon option within India’s diversified energy mix.

Body

Why India should continue expanding nuclear energy

• Rising energy demand: According to the International Energy Agency, India has been among the fastest-growing contributors to global energy demand, reflecting industrialisation and rising living standards.
• Energy security: Nuclear power reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels and supports long-term baseload supply; India’s three-stage programme leverages domestic thorium reserves.
• Climate commitments: Nuclear power is low-carbon and complements renewables in meeting India’s NDC targets under the Paris Agreement.
• Developmental needs: For a developing economy, nuclear energy provides stable power essential for manufacturing, urban infrastructure and 24×7 electricity access.
• Foreign policy dividends: Civil nuclear cooperation (e.g., Indo-US nuclear agreement) has strengthened India’s strategic partnerships and global standing.

Facts and fears associated with nuclear energy

• Nuclear waste: Safe handling and long-term disposal of radioactive waste remain unresolved concerns, fuelling public protests near plant sites.
• Safety risks: Accidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima highlight low-probability but high-impact risks, shaping public perception.
• Displacement and social acceptance: Large land requirements can displace communities, and rehabilitation challenges persist.
• Health concerns: Exposure to ionising radiation—actual or perceived—raises fears of long-term health impacts.
• High costs and delays: Nuclear projects involve high capital costs and long gestation periods.

Conclusion

Nuclear energy is not a silver bullet, but for India it can be a vital pillar of energy security and climate strategy. The way forward lies in selective expansion, stronger independent regulation, transparent waste management, and public engagement—balancing nuclear power’s developmental promise with robust risk governance.