The Lok Sabha, India’s lower house of Parliament, passed the SHANTI Bill 2025 on Wednesday, a significant piece of legislation that seeks to facilitate private sector participation in the country’s nuclear energy industry. The bill, which is yet to be reviewed by the Rajya Sabha, introduces a new civil liability framework and enhances the powers of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), marking a pivotal shift in India’s approach to nuclear energy.
The SHANTI Bill, which stands for “Safety, Health, and Nuclear Technology Initiative,” is designed to address the growing energy demands of India while promoting sustainable and clean energy sources. With the country’s energy consumption projected to increase significantly in the coming decades, the government is looking to nuclear power as a viable solution to meet these needs. Currently, nuclear energy contributes approximately 3% to India’s total energy mix, a figure that the government aims to increase through this legislation.
One of the key features of the SHANTI Bill is the establishment of a new civil liability framework that delineates the responsibilities and liabilities of private entities involved in nuclear energy production. This framework is intended to provide clarity and assurance to potential investors, addressing concerns related to safety and financial risks associated with nuclear power projects. By defining the legal liabilities of private operators, the bill aims to foster a more conducive environment for investment in the nuclear sector.
Additionally, the bill seeks to strengthen the AERB, which is responsible for regulating the safety and security of nuclear installations in India. The enhanced powers granted to the AERB under the SHANTI Bill will enable it to better oversee the operations of private entities, ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations. This move is seen as crucial in maintaining public trust in nuclear energy, particularly in a country where safety concerns have historically been a significant barrier to the expansion of nuclear power.
While the SHANTI Bill opens the door for private sector involvement, it also maintains that certain critical operations will remain under government control. This includes the management of nuclear fuel and the oversight of nuclear waste disposal, areas that are deemed too sensitive to be fully privatized. By retaining control over these aspects, the government aims to mitigate risks associated with nuclear energy while still encouraging private investment in other areas of the industry.
The passage of the SHANTI Bill comes at a time when India is actively seeking to diversify its energy sources and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. The country has set ambitious targets to increase its renewable energy capacity, but nuclear power is also seen as a key component of its energy strategy. The government has expressed a commitment to increasing the share of nuclear energy in its overall energy mix, with plans to expand existing nuclear power plants and construct new ones in the coming years.
The implications of the SHANTI Bill extend beyond just the energy sector. By promoting private investment in nuclear energy, the legislation could stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and enhance technological innovation in the country. The involvement of private players is expected to bring in capital, expertise, and efficiency, which could lead to the development of advanced nuclear technologies and improved operational practices.
However, the bill has also faced scrutiny from various stakeholders, including environmental groups and local communities concerned about the safety and environmental impacts of nuclear energy. Critics argue that the potential risks associated with nuclear power, including accidents and long-term waste management, need to be carefully considered before expanding the role of the private sector. The government has assured that safety will remain a top priority, but the debate over the balance between energy needs and environmental concerns is likely to continue.
As the SHANTI Bill moves to the Rajya Sabha for further deliberation, its passage will be closely watched by industry stakeholders, environmental advocates, and policymakers alike. The outcome will not only shape the future of nuclear energy in India but also influence the country’s broader energy strategy in the face of climate change and growing energy demands. The bill represents a significant step towards modernizing India’s nuclear framework and could play a crucial role in the nation’s transition to a more sustainable energy future.
