The Government of India has confirmed that regular discussions are underway between the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Russia’s ROSATOM to strengthen cooperation in the field of nuclear energy, including in the areas of large-capacity nuclear power plants and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). However, no specific agreements or project details have been finalised yet.
This information was shared by the Minister of State for the Prime Minister’s Office, Dr. Jitendra Singh, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha on 4 February 2026, underlining the government’s cautious and safety-first approach to expanding India’s nuclear power programme.
India-Russia Nuclear Cooperation: Talks Ongoing
According to the statement, discussions between DAE and ROSATOM are focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in nuclear energy, particularly in advanced reactor technologies and large-capacity nuclear power projects. While the engagement signals strategic intent to deepen collaboration, the government clarified that no concrete details or agreements have been finalised at this stage.
The move aligns with India’s long-term objective of strengthening its clean and reliable energy mix while exploring new technologies such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which are increasingly being seen globally as a flexible and scalable nuclear energy option.
Safety Remains the Highest Priority
The government reiterated that safety is accorded the highest priority at all stages of nuclear power plant development. All nuclear projects are established strictly in accordance with stage-wise clearances granted by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), India’s nuclear regulatory authority.
In addition, all conditions and recommendations laid down in safety, environmental, and other statutory clearances are diligently implemented by the concerned agencies. This underscores the government’s emphasis on maintaining the highest standards of nuclear safety, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance.
Public Consultation and Environmental Clearances
On stakeholder engagement, the government stated that formal stakeholder consultations are an integral part of the project approval process. These include:
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Public hearings conducted as part of the Social Impact Assessment (SIA) under the RFCTLARR Act for land acquisition
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Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) processes for obtaining environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC)
Beyond statutory requirements, a large public awareness programme is also implemented to engage with various stakeholders and address concerns related to nuclear projects.
Support for Project-Affected Persons and Local Communities
The government highlighted that, as a general policy, special provisions for relaxation in age and marks are provided for Project Affected Persons (PAPs) in the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), a PSU under the DAE. Additionally, preference to suitable local youth is included in various contractual engagements.
Further, as part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, NPCIL undertakes:
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Skill development programmes
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Scholarships and sponsorships for higher education to meritorious local students
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Social welfare schemes in education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and sanitation
These initiatives are implemented not only at existing nuclear sites but also around new project locations under construction or in the pre-project stage, with the aim of ensuring inclusive growth for surrounding communities.
Government’s Broader Development Approach
The statement also noted that the government undertakes multiple development initiatives around nuclear project sites to improve the quality of life of local populations. These efforts are designed to ensure that communities benefit from long-term socio-economic development alongside the establishment of strategic energy infrastructure.
Conclusion
The Lok Sabha reply on 4 February 2026 highlights India’s measured and safety-first approach to expanding its nuclear energy footprint. While discussions with ROSATOM signal intent to deepen international cooperation in advanced nuclear technologies, the government has made it clear that regulatory approvals, public consultation, environmental safeguards, and community welfare remain central to its nuclear power strategy. The emphasis on safety, transparency, and inclusive development reflects a balanced approach to pursuing nuclear energy as a key component of India’s future energy security.
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Source: PIB
