BARC Launches Development of Small Modular Reactors in India

The Indian government has announced that the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has commenced the design and development of several small modular reactors (SMRs). This includes the 200 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR-200) and the 55 MWe Small Modular Reactor (SMR-55), along with a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor intended for hydrogen generation, with a capacity of up to 5 MWth.

In a written response to Parliament, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh outlined that the lead units for these reactors are planned for construction at a site managed by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) to serve as technology demonstration projects. The construction of these demonstration reactors is expected to be completed within a timeframe of 60 to 72 months following the approval of project sanctions.

The minister further highlighted a recent meeting between the DAE and Russia’s Rosatom. This meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in the nuclear energy sector, including the development of both large and small-scale nuclear power plants, as well as collaboration in the nuclear fuel cycle. A significant aspect of this partnership involves exploring opportunities for localizing equipment production in India.

As part of these discussions, the potential construction of small modular reactors based on Russian designs in India was particularly emphasized. In relation to the Bharat Small Reactors (BSR) for industrial use, the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) on December 31, 2024, according to the business model endorsed by the government. Following a pre-proposal meeting held in February 2025, where queries from interested industries were addressed, the deadline for RFP submissions has been extended to March 31, 2026 to accommodate further inquiries.

Moreover, Dr. Singh noted that the draft Atomic Energy Bill 2025 is currently in an advanced stage of processing. This includes the incorporation of final comments and suggestions from various ministries and legal vetting by the Ministry of Law and Justice to ensure compliance with legal standards. The government is actively integrating policy directives regarding specific aspects of the Bill prior to seeking final approvals.

In the context of the upcoming fiscal year, the Budget announcement for 2025–26 underlines the government’s commitment to the Nuclear Energy Mission, which prioritizes the development and deployment of five indigenous SMRs by 2033, with a financial outlay of Rs 20,000 crore. This initiative is expected to significantly bolster India’s capabilities in nuclear energy and contribute to energy security.

The strategic advancements in the nuclear sector reflect India’s aim to enhance its technological prowess while fostering international partnerships and addressing domestic energy needs.