Lok Sabha Passes SHANTI Bill Opening Nuclear Sector

The Lok Sabha has passed the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, marking a major policy shift by allowing private participation in India’s civil nuclear sector. The legislation was cleared by a voice vote amid a walkout by opposition members and is being projected by the government as a key reform to accelerate clean energy generation and long-term energy security.

Key Provisions of the SHANTI Bill

The SHANTI Bill seeks to open a sector that has remained tightly controlled by the state since independence. It enables private companies to participate in nuclear power generation, infrastructure development and associated services under a regulated framework. The government argues that this move will help mobilise capital, technology and expertise required for scaling up nuclear capacity at a faster pace while maintaining safety and regulatory oversight.

Government’s Energy and Strategic Rationale

Union Minister Jitendra Singh described the bill as a “milestone legislation” that would give a new direction to India’s development journey. He stated that India has set a target of achieving 100 GW of nuclear energy capacity by 2047, aligned with the country’s clean energy transition and climate commitments. According to the government, expanding nuclear power is essential for meeting rising electricity demand while reducing dependence on fossil fuels and ensuring base-load power.

Opposition Concerns and Liability Debate

Opposition parties opposed the bill, arguing that it dilutes the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010. They contended that the proposed framework weakens supplier liability in the event of a nuclear incident, shifting greater responsibility away from equipment suppliers. The opposition maintained that nuclear safety and accountability should not be compromised in the pursuit of investment and capacity expansion.

What to Note for Exams?

• SHANTI stands for Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India.
• The bill aims to help India reach 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047.
• It allows private sector participation in civil nuclear energy for the first time.
• Concerns relate to changes linked with the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010.

Implications for India’s Nuclear and Clean Energy Future

With the passage of the SHANTI Bill, India signals a shift towards aligning its nuclear sector with global practices where private participation plays a significant role. The government views the reform as critical for strengthening India’s geopolitical standing, meeting clean energy goals and supporting long-term economic growth, while the debate on safety, liability and regulation is expected to continue as the framework is implemented.