India Moves to Amend Nuclear Liability Laws Ahead of PM Modi's US Visit

INIndia|

India has announced plans to amend its nuclear liability laws and establish a "Nuclear Energy Mission" with a budget of approximately $2.4 billion (₹20,000 crore), as made public by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the Union budget presentation. The timing coincides with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's anticipated visit to the United States, where he will discuss expanding bilateral ties with President Donald Trump, particularly in the areas of trade, energy, and defense.

These amendments are crucial as current provisions in India's Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, enacted in 2010, have hindered the implementation of the civil nuclear deal established between India and the US approximately 16 years ago. The proposed changes aim to open the sector to private investments, a move hailed by PM Modi as historic.

The US recently lifted restrictions on three Indian nuclear organizations, facilitating potential collaboration. Over the years, India has explored partnerships with the US and other countries in the development of Small Modular Reactors and aims to operationalize at least five by 2033.

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INIndia