Wedoany.com Report on Feb 7th, The Indian government has significantly increased funding support for nuclear research in its latest budget. The research and development allocation for the Department of Atomic Energy has been raised from the revised ₹128.477 billion of the previous fiscal year to ₹241.048 billion, an increase of 88%. This funding will primarily be used to advance the development of indigenous reactor technology and advanced nuclear energy innovations.

The budget allocation shows a clear structural shift, with capital expenditure increasing from ₹92.895 billion to ₹197.720 billion, a rise of 113%; while revenue expenditure saw only a modest increase from ₹35.582 billion to ₹43.338 billion. This indicates the government is shifting its investment focus towards infrastructure development and enhancing long-term research capabilities.

The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre received a substantial funding increase, with a total allocation of ₹180 billion, up 95% from the previous ₹91.891 billion. The institution is responsible for developing next-generation nuclear technologies, including the 200 MW Bharat Small Modular Reactor, the 55 MW Small Modular Reactor, and the High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor for hydrogen production.

The Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research also saw a funding boost, with its total allocation increasing from ₹6.786 billion to ₹22.6 billion. The center's lead project on the development of a Liquid Sodium Cooled Fast Breeder Reactor is a crucial component of India's nuclear power program, aiming to improve fuel utilization efficiency through advanced technology.

Despite increased funding for R&D, the overall budget for the Department of Atomic Energy was slightly adjusted from ₹2,441.147 billion to ₹2,412.392 billion. This change is primarily due to an adjustment in capital assistance to the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited, which was reduced from ₹824.2 billion to ₹550 billion. Data shows the company maintains a robust financial position, with operating revenue at ₹2,038.466 billion and a net profit of ₹473.7 billion.

This budget adjustment reflects India's strategic pivot towards a research-driven approach in the nuclear energy sector. Funding will focus on supporting innovation in areas such as advanced reactors, small modular reactors, hydrogen-related technologies, and fast breeder systems, aiding in the expansion of clean energy capacity and ensuring energy security.