India’s nuclear power capacity to triple by 2032, doubles in 10 years

India’s nuclear power generation capacity has nearly doubled over the past decade, rising from 4,780 MW in 2014 to 8,180 MW in 2024. 

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh shared this update during a discussion in the Lok Sabha, he outlined that nuclear power capacity is projected to triple to 22,480 MW by 2031-32. 

This expansion is driven by initiatives such as bulk reactor approvals, enhanced funding, public-sector collaboration, and limited private participation. 

A revised power distribution framework now allocates 50% of electricity from atomic plants to the home state, 35% to neighbouring states, and 15% to the national grid, ensuring equitable distribution.

India’s atomic energy applications extend beyond power generation to include agriculture, healthcare, and defense. The program has developed 70 mutagenic crop varieties, introduced advanced cancer treatment isotopes, and produced lightweight, cost-effective bulletproof jackets.

The country is leveraging its abundant thorium reserves, which account for 21% of the global total, through indigenous projects like “Bhavani” to reduce reliance on imported uranium. Nine atomic power projects are currently under construction.