North India’s First Nuclear Power Plant to be Set Up in Haryana: A Major Step Towards India’s Clean Energy Future

The announcement was made by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to nuclear power expansion while addressing concerns in the Lok Sabha.

In a significant development for India’s nuclear energy ambitions, North India is set to witness its first nuclear power plant in Gorakhpur, a small town in Haryana. This milestone marks a crucial step in the country’s energy transition towards sustainable and clean sources. The announcement was made by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to nuclear power expansion while addressing concerns in the Lok Sabha.

Gorakhpur Nuclear Power Plant: A Historic First for North India

The Gorakhpur Nuclear Power Project (GNPP) is poised to be a landmark infrastructure project, positioning Haryana as a significant player in India's nuclear energy landscape. This initiative is part of India’s broader strategy to diversify its power sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The nuclear plant is expected to contribute significantly to the nation’s growing energy needs while supporting India’s long-term net-zero emissions target for 2070.

Jaitapur Nuclear Project: India’s Largest Nuclear Power Initiative

Alongside the Gorakhpur project, the government is actively advancing the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project in Maharashtra, which, once operational, will be the largest nuclear power facility in the world. With six reactors, each having a capacity of 1,730 MW, the Jaitapur project will contribute a total of 10,380 MW of power. This will account for 10% of India’s ambitious target of achieving 100 GW of nuclear energy capacity by 2047.

Environmental and Safety Concerns Addressed

Responding to environmental and safety concerns, Dr. Jitendra Singh clarified that the necessary safeguards are in place. The Minister emphasized that environmental clearance for the Jaitapur project is currently under renewal due to procedural delays rather than new environmental objections. “If there were serious environmental hazards, we would not have received environmental clearance even earlier,” he assured.

Concerns about the plant's location in a seismic zone, as well as its impact on marine life and local livelihoods, have been repeatedly raised by conservation groups. However, the government has maintained that extensive research and evidence-based studies demonstrate the safety of the project. The Minister assured that nuclear technology today is more advanced and safer than ever before.

The Role of France in the Jaitapur Project

India has been collaborating with France for technical expertise in the Jaitapur project. While the initial agreement was signed in 2008, delays occurred due to shifts in commercial negotiations and evolving regulatory frameworks. With the technical agreements now finalized, India and France are in the final stages of commercial discussions, paving the way for construction to commence.

Addressing Nuclear Liability Concerns

One of the critical concerns surrounding nuclear projects in India has been the issue of nuclear liability. Dr. Jitendra Singh reassured that the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) framework provides clear safeguards, with the primary responsibility resting with the operator. To enhance financial security, an insurance pool of ₹1,500 crore has been set up, with additional support from the government if required. India has also aligned with global compensation mechanisms to ensure adequate financial protection in case of any unforeseen incidents.

Opening the Nuclear Sector to Private Participation

In a landmark policy shift, the Indian government is now opening up the nuclear energy sector to private players. This move is expected to accelerate nuclear power expansion, bringing in fresh investments, advanced technology, and innovative solutions. Private sector participation is anticipated to enhance operational efficiency, promote competition, and drive down costs, making nuclear energy more viable in India’s energy mix.

The Road to a Cleaner Energy Future

India’s aggressive push towards nuclear energy aligns with its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and ensuring energy security. With nuclear power playing an essential role in the country’s energy roadmap, projects like Gorakhpur and Jaitapur will be instrumental in transitioning towards sustainable and reliable power sources.

The Indian government envisions a future where nuclear energy significantly contributes to the overall energy mix, helping the country meet its growing power demand without compromising environmental sustainability. With strategic investments, technological collaborations, and policy reforms, India is poised to emerge as a global leader in nuclear technology and clean energy solutions.

As the country moves forward with its ambitious nuclear expansion plans, the Gorakhpur Nuclear Power Plant stands as a testament to India’s commitment to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.