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New Delhi - While the world's attention is focused on the conflict between the US, Israel and Iran, India is quietly building up its strength.
On April 6th, India acquired a nuclear technology capability that very few countries have. Prime Minister Narendra Modi informed the citizens about this. India's first indigenous 'Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor' was successfully commissioned at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu. He said that this is an important and historic milestone in India's nuclear energy journey. More than 200 Indian companies have contributed to this. Small-scale industries also played a major role in this.
Prime Minister Modi posted on Twitter, "This advanced reactor capable of producing more fuel than it consumes, reflects the depth of our scientific capability and the strength of our engineering enterprise. It is a decisive step towards harnessing our vast thorium reserves. This is a proud moment for India."
Fuel created as the fuel burns : Feature of the reactor In a normal nuclear reactor, fuel is burned to generate energy and the fuel runs out; however, this fast breeder reactor is different. It generates new fuel as it uses the fuel, hence it is called a 'breeder'. Once this reactor is fully operational, India will become the second country after Russia to operate a fast breeder reactor on a commercial scale. After India, only China has such a reactor; however, it is not commercial. This reactor has an advanced safety system. It has the ability to automatically shut down safely in an emergency. |
The next phase of the nuclear energy programme begins
Scientists say the success marks the beginning of the second phase of India's three-phase nuclear power programme. In the next phase, India can use its vast thorium reserves to generate cheap and clean energy. This will meet the electricity needs of the country's large population and also help reduce pollution from coal.
Pakistan upset over India's success in the nuclear energy sector
After India's great success in the field of nuclear energy, neighbouring Pakistan has started raising objections to it. Pakistan's arms control advisor and member of the 'Strategic Plans Division', Zahir Kazmi, has posted on social media in this regard and warned Pakistan to be 'cautious'. He has alleged that since this is a 'breeder' type reactor, it can produce plutonium (an essential element for making nuclear bombs) along with generating electricity. Therefore, India can use this technology to make nuclear weapons. He has also alleged that since this reactor is not under the control of the International Atomic Energy Agency, India can produce high-grade plutonium without any restrictions.
The Indian government says that policies related to national security cannot be placed under the control of any international organization. Therefore, this project is part of the country's long-term energy and strategic needs.