India Eyes Nuclear Power in Andaman Islands

Key facts

• Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) scientists are visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to identify potential sites for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
• The BARC team briefed Lieutenant Governor Admiral D.K. Joshi on the features and applications of SMRs.
• The proposed nuclear project is significant against the backdrop of the Great Nicobar Project, which is expected to significantly increase electricity demand in the islands.
• The Great Nicobar Project includes an International Container Transshipment Terminal, a greenfield international airport, and a new township spread across 16,610 hectares.
• Diesel generator sets are currently the primary source of electricity in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• India launched its Nuclear Energy Mission as part of the Union Budget 2025-26, focusing on research and development of Small Modular Reactors.
• The government allocated ₹20,000 crore for the initiative and aims to develop at least five indigenously designed and operational SMRs by 2033.
• According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors with a power capacity of up to 300 MWe per unit, roughly one-third of conventional nuclear power reactors.
• SMRs can be deployed at locations that may not be suitable for large conventional nuclear power plants.
• SMRs have a modular design that allows systems and components to be factory-assembled and transported as units to a site for installation.
• SMRs can potentially be integrated into existing grids or deployed in remote, off-grid locations.
• The Great Nicobar Project aims to transform Great Nicobar into a strategic maritime and economic hub by leveraging its proximity to major East-West shipping routes.
• The project also aims to strengthen national security and defence infrastructure.
• The proposed International Container Transshipment Terminal is aimed at addressing the lack of deep-water berths at Indian ports capable of handling large container vessels.
• A significant portion of India-bound cargo is currently transshipped through ports such as Colombo and Singapore.
• The project includes a proposed international airport, given the archipelago's proximity to international tourist destinations such as Phuket and Langkawi.
• The planned township is intended to cater to the residential, commercial and institutional requirements expected to emerge from the port-led development of Great Nicobar.