SHANTI Bill: India’s Nuclear Energy Revolution

The SHANTI Bill represents a significant leap in India's journey towards becoming a leader in nuclear energy. Historically, India’s nuclear power program has seen promise but faced challenges due to complex regulations and liability concerns. The passage of the SHANTI Bill provides a fresh opportunity to create a robust framework for nuclear energy, aiming to establish it as a cornerstone of clean and reliable energy in the country.

This legislation seeks to replace the outdated Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010 with a single, comprehensive law. By doing so, it aims to align India's nuclear framework with global norms, aspiring to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047, in line with India's decarbonisation goals.

One of the notable features of the SHANTI Bill is its balanced approach to building nuclear infrastructure. It encourages both public and private sector participation but maintains strong governmental oversight. By excluding foreign-incorporated companies from licensing, the bill emphasizes the importance of developing domestic capabilities within a state-led framework.

Another significant aspect is the separation of roles within the regulatory structure. The government will handle licensing, while the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) will ensure safety standards and regulations. A stronger regulator will be crucial for enforcing compliance, and it will require adequate resources and training to fulfill its responsibilities effectively.

Liability concerns surrounding nuclear incidents remain contentious, particularly in light of past tragedies like the Bhopal gas disaster. The SHANTI Bill addresses these issues by aligning with global practices and establishing a Nuclear Liability Fund. It also treats terrorism as a sovereign risk, placing liability on the government to ensure that victims are compensated swiftly in such cases.

Moreover, the bill broadens the definition of nuclear damage, including long-term health impacts and environmental restoration costs, which will enhance support for victims. The introduction of a claims pathway with defined timelines for compensation disbursement is a step towards ensuring justice for those affected.

On the innovation front, the SHANTI Bill promotes intellectual property related to nuclear energy. By amending the Patents Act, it encourages the development of new technologies in nuclear power, which is essential for creating skilled jobs and enhancing India's position in the global supply chain.

With the SHANTI Bill, India is not just aiming to enhance its nuclear capabilities but also to strengthen its international partnerships. By aligning liability and compensation frameworks with international standards, India can attract foreign investment and collaborate on civil nuclear projects with multiple partners, rather than relying on a single supplier.

In conclusion, the SHANTI Bill is a bold and strategic initiative that provides India with the tools needed to transition from discussion to action in nuclear energy. It opens up new avenues for investment, innovation, and international cooperation, paving the way for India to emerge as a credible player in the global nuclear energy landscape.