Amendments to Nuclear Liability and Atomic Energy Acts

Ahead of Prime Minister's visit to Paris and Washington, the Indian government announced intentions to amend its Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Act and the Atomic Energy Act. This move aims to resolve longstanding legal issues that have stalled projects by American and French nuclear power companies for over 15 years.

Significance of Amendments

• Facilitates projects such as Electricite de France's proposal to build six EPR1650 reactors in Jaitapur, Maharashtra.
• Enables progress on American Westinghouse Electric Company’s plan to construct six AP1000 reactors in Andhra Pradesh at Kovvada.
• Supports the adoption of new nuclear technologies, particularly Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

Government Justifications

Amendments are pursued to foster private sector partnerships in nuclear energy, aiming for at least 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047. A budget allocation of ₹20,000 crores is designated for developing five SMRs in India by 2033.

Challenges with Current Legislation

• The CLNDA (2010) imposes high liability on nuclear component suppliers, which is seen as inconsistent with the Convention for Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage (CSC), focusing on operator liability.
• Historical context includes opposition backlash citing the Bhopal Gas leak and the Fukushima disaster.

Reactions and Future Prospects

• Previous government stance in 2015 was against amendments, citing compatibility with international conventions.
• In 2019, a ₹1,500 crores insurance pool was created, yet it did not persuade international companies.

International Implications

The amendments could break the deadlock by aligning domestic legal standards with international norms, thus encouraging international partnerships. With U.S. and French interests in SMR projects, this issue is crucial during PM Modi's visits to these countries.