Parliament Clears SHANTI Bill Opening India’s Nuclear Power Sector To Private Investment

New Delhi[India] December 18: On a calm weekday inside Parliament, lawmakers approved the SHANTI Bill after long discussion and debate. The Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill. The bill was passed by both Houses with clear support. The Lok Sabha had cleared it a day earlier, setting the stage for a major shift in India’s nuclear power policy. The Bill was introduced by Union Minister of State for Atomic Energy Jitendra Singh. The moment marked a rare consensus on energy reform. Members across parties spoke about power needs and future growth. The decision signals a new chapter for India’s nuclear power journey.

What The SHANTI Bill Actually Changes

For decades, only government-owned companies could run nuclear power plants in India. The SHANTI Bill changes that rule in a controlled and regulated way. It allows private companies and joint ventures to build, own, operate, and even decommission nuclear reactors. These firms must get safety clearance and radiation approval before any work begins. The Bill also updates the system for accident responsibility. It simplifies liability rules for fuel and technology suppliers. This change is meant to remove fear among investors. The aim is safety first, but with smoother rules that attract serious players.

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Why India Is Looking At Nuclear Power Again

India’s interest in nuclear energy is not new. The Atomic Energy Act of 1962 laid the base soon after independence. Since then, nuclear power has stayed under strict state control. Over time, energy demand has grown fast. Cities have expanded and industries need steady power. Renewable sources help but they depend on weather. Nuclear power gives stable and clean energy. The SHANTI Bill plans to support India’s target of 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047. That year marks 100 years of independence. The government sees nuclear power as key to long-term energy security.

Political Reactions And National Vision

After the Bill passed, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it a turning point for India’s technology and energy path. He thanked Members of Parliament who supported the move. He said the law will help in clean manufacturing and safe power for future technologies like artificial intelligence. According to the government, the private sector will bring new ideas and faster execution. Young professionals may also get new jobs in engineering and safety roles. Leaders stressed that strict regulation will remain. The focus stays on safety, environment protection, and public trust.

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Legal Changes And The Road Ahead

The SHANTI Bill also brings legal reform. It plans to repeal the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010. Certain clauses seen as unclear or harsh have been removed. The Bill also proposes changes to the Patents Act of 1970 related to atomic energy inventions. This may support research and innovation. All nuclear activity will still be monitored by central authorities. Licences will not be easy to get. The government believes this balance will bring growth without risk. The nuclear sector now enters a carefully opened future.