New Delhi: Union Minister Jitendra Singh said zero customs duty on imports for nuclear projects will reduce costs and speed up execution, improving the viability of nuclear energy in India.
In a written reply in the Lok Sabha, he said the zero customs duty policy would lower both project costs and per-unit electricity prices. As a result, projects involving foreign cooperation with high import content would become more feasible.
Responding to questions by MPs Ramesh Awasthi and Ravi Kishan, the Minister outlined measures taken to strengthen the nuclear energy sector. He said the duty exemption on nuclear fuels and reactor components will remain in place until 2035.
According to him, this move will support faster development of nuclear power projects. Moreover, it will help improve affordability of electricity generated from such plants.
He also highlighted efforts to strengthen the domestic supply chain for 10 newly approved 700 MW Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor units.
Zero customs duty supports nuclear expansion and supply chain
Meanwhile, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited has taken steps to ensure continuity in project execution. These include placing bulk orders and expanding the vendor base with necessary support.
In addition, the corporation is promoting indigenous equipment to reduce imports. It has also reserved certain components for class-1 local suppliers and encouraged MSME participation through vendor meets.
The Minister said increased funding for research at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre is being used for multidisciplinary technology development. This includes work on new research reactors and isotope production facilities for cancer treatment.
Furthermore, advanced reactor technologies such as Small Modular Reactors and hydrogen production systems are under focus. Research is also ongoing in accelerator technologies, laser applications and advanced materials.
However, he clarified that there is no proposal at present to integrate the PM Gati Shakti framework with nuclear park development in coastal states.
