Small Modular Reactors (SMR’s)
Context:
On December 3rd 2025, A meeting took place between DAE and Rosatom focused on furthering bilateral cooperation in the field of nuclear energy, such as development of projects for both large and small-scale nuclear power plants and cooperation in the nuclear fuel cycle.
About Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR):
In the Union Budget 2025-26, the government allocated ₹20,000 crore for the design and development of SMRs.
The aim is to operationalize these indigenous units by 2033.
The BSMR-200 (200 MWe) is based on proven Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR)technology and uses Slightly Enriched Uranium (SEU) as fuel
It incorporates passive safety features ensuring safety during off-normal conditions
Key Projects under Development by BARC:
BSMR-200:
It is the lead unit proposed at Tarapur, Maharashtra
SMR-55:
It is a 55 MWe unit proposed at Tarapur
High-Temperature Reactor:
It is a 5 MWth gas-cooled reactor for hydrogen generation proposed at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
Strategic Objectives & Policy:
SMRs are designed for repurposing retiring fossil fuel plants, serving as captive plants for energy-intensive industries, and providing off-grid power in remote locations
The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to partner with private players for deploying 220 MW Bharat Small Reactors (BSR) for captive power generation
National Targets:
India aims for 100 GWe installed nuclear capacity by 2047 to support the Net Zero by 2070 goal.