India’s nuclear energy sector stands at a pivotal moment, poised for unprecedented growth as the nation pursues its ambitious target of 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047. With a current installed capacity of 8,180 MW as of early 2025, the Indian government has set a clear roadmap to triple this to 22,480 MW by 2031, driven by 21 reactors under development, including 9 under construction (7,300 MW) and 12 in pre-project stages (8,000 MW). This expansion aligns with India’s energy transition strategy, aiming to increase nuclear’s share from 1.75% to 9% of electricity generation by 2047, supporting net-zero goals by 2070.

The sector is witnessing a transformative shift with policy reforms opening doors to private and foreign investment, as announced in the 2025-26 Union Budget. This shift, backed by a $2.4 billion Nuclear Energy Mission, underscores India’s commitment to leveraging nuclear power for energy security, industrial growth, and decarbonization, positioning the country as a key player in the global nuclear landscape.

Recent developments highlight India’s dynamic approach to nuclear growth. The 2025 budget introduced plans to operationalize five indigenously designed Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) by 2033, building on Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) derived from 220 MW PHWR technology, with Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) leading innovation in thorium-based fuels and advanced reactors. International collaboration is accelerating, with projects like Kudankulam (Russia, 6 VVER-1000 units, 6 GW by 2027) and Jaitapur (France, 6 EPRs, 9.6 GW) advancing. Legislative amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act are facilitating private sector entry. These developments signal a robust market, with a projected $550 billion business potential, driven by applications like clean hydrogen, desalination, and industrial heating.

The theme of this year’s INBP conference, India’s Nuclear 100: The Road to 2047, with the sub-theme Privatization and International Collaboration: Key Drivers for India’s Nuclear Growth, captures the essence of this transformative phase. As India navigates challenges like project timelines, financing, and safety, the role of private players and global partnerships becomes crucial. The conference will explore how these drivers can accelerate India’s nuclear ambitions, ensuring sustainable growth while addressing energy demands and climate goals. Discussions will focus on SMR deployment, regulatory reforms, and innovative financing models like public-private partnerships (PPPs), essential for scaling capacity.

The 6th edition of the India Nuclear Business Platform (INBP), scheduled for 14–15 October 2025 in Mumbai, offers a premier platform to engage with these opportunities. Building on the success of past editions, INBP 2025 will provide a crucial platform for stakeholders to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping India’s nuclear future. By bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, investors, and experts, the India Nuclear Business Platform will be a catalyst for shaping India’s nuclear future, facilitate dialogue, forge partnerships, and pave the way for India’s emergence as a global leader in nuclear energy.