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India and Russia Strengthen Nuclear Partnership: Insights on Kudankulam

Expanding Nuclear Energy Capacity Through Strategic Collaboration

India and Russia Strengthen Nuclear Partnership: Insights on Kudankulam

  • 31 May, 2024
  • 490

Expansion of Nuclear Infrastructure

India and Russia are collaborating to identify new sites for constructing Russian-built nuclear reactors in India. This partnership aims to significantly enhance India’s nuclear energy infrastructure, with notable progress occurring at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) in Tamil Nadu.

Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant Overview

Kudankulam is India’s largest nuclear power plant, which has seen substantial development due to the support of Russia’s state-owned nuclear energy corporation, Rosatom. Currently, four reactors, each with a capacity of 1,000 Megawatts (MW), are operational at this site. In December, India and Russia reached an agreement to construct two additional reactors, further increasing the plant’s capacity and strengthening the strategic energy partnership between the two nations.

Future Plans for Nuclear Expansion

Ongoing discussions are focusing on the progress at Kudankulam and the exploration of additional sites for Russian reactors. This commitment highlights India’s determination to expand its nuclear energy infrastructure effectively.

Challenges and Legislative Hurdles

Despite the cooperative efforts with Russia, India faces challenges concerning its civil nuclear agreements with other countries. The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010 presents liability issues that complicate negotiations, causing delays in projects with international partners. This legislation holds suppliers accountable for any nuclear incidents, creating a complex landscape for future collaborations.

Strategic Importance of Nuclear Infrastructure

Expanding nuclear infrastructure through reliable partnerships is a top priority for India. The successful development of additional reactors is expected to enhance India’s energy capacity and solidify its role as a key player in the global nuclear energy landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the purpose of the collaboration between India and Russia in the nuclear sector?
Answer: The collaboration aims to enhance India’s nuclear energy infrastructure, expand its energy capacity, and strengthen the strategic energy partnership between India and Russia.

Q2. What progress has been made at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant?
Answer: Four reactors with a capacity of 1,000 MW each are currently operational, and plans are in place to construct two additional reactors.

Q3. What challenges does India face in its nuclear agreements with other countries?
Answer: India faces difficulty due to liability issues from the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010, complicating negotiations and delaying projects with international partners.

Q4. How does the expansion of nuclear infrastructure benefit India?
Answer: Expanding nuclear infrastructure increases India’s energy capacity, supports sustainable development, and strengthens its position in the global nuclear energy landscape.

Q5. What role does the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010 play in India’s nuclear agreements?
Answer: The Act holds suppliers accountable for nuclear incidents, complicating negotiations and hindering the finalization of nuclear agreements with other countries.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary aim of the nuclear collaboration between India and Russia?
A) To develop solar energy projects
B) To enhance nuclear energy infrastructure
C) To reduce reliance on coal
D) To promote wind energy
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which corporation is primarily involved in India's nuclear development with Russia?
A) ISRO
B) NTPC
C) Rosatom
D) ONGC
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: How many reactors are currently operational at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant?
A) Two
B) Three
C) Four
D) Five
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: What challenge does the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act present to India?
A) Reduces energy production
B) Increases investment
C) Complicates international negotiations
D) Enhances safety measures
Correct Answer: C

Question 5: What is the capacity of each operational reactor at Kudankulam?
A) 500 MW
B) 750 MW
C) 1,000 MW
D) 1,500 MW
Correct Answer: C

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