Expand nuclear energy with focus on small modular reactors

The promise was to expand the nuclear-energy share of the energy mix, with specific focus on small modular reactors and increased nuclear investment. The government has created a Nuclear Energy Mission with Rs 20,000 crore outlay for research, development and deployment of SMRs, with a stated aim of at least five indigenously designed SMRs by 2033. DAE has reported design and development work on BSMR-200, SMR-55 and a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor, and official data also shows wider nuclear expansion through 8,780 MW installed capacity and 18 reactors of 13,600 MW under implementation. ASHVINI has also begun the Mahi Banswara 4 x 700 MW project at a stated cost of Rs 42,000 crore, and PFBR achieved first criticality in April 2026. This is partial rather than on_track because the SMR component is still in research, design, demonstration and approval stages, with operational SMRs targeted for 2033 rather than evidenced delivery within the current term. Budget: direct allocation exists through the Rs 20,000 crore Nuclear Energy Mission, and mapped project investment exists for Mahi Banswara and other reactors, but SMR utilisation or operational deployment evidence was not found.