Minister calls it a defining step in nuclear transformation; says Modi 3.0 marks era of bold, science-led reforms
BuzzBytes
NEW DELHI, Dec 28: The SHANTI Bill will go down as one of the Modi Government’s most significant science reforms, Union Minister for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh said on Sunday, describing it as a turning point in India’s journey toward becoming a science-driven, innovation-led economy. He said the Bill places scientific advancement at the centre of national reform, marking a decisive break from convention.
In an interview here, Dr. Singh said that while parliamentary debates often revolve around governance and welfare issues, India’s long-term socio-economic trajectory will largely be defined by reforms in science and technology. “The third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is distinctly characterised by bold, structural reforms, with a strong emphasis on science, innovation, and entrepreneurship,” he noted.
Calling the SHANTI Bill a “historic shift in India’s reform narrative,” the Minister said it realigns national priorities to unlock the full potential of India’s nuclear sector. He said the legislation paves the way for peaceful, clean and sustainable nuclear energy development, while maintaining uncompromising standards of safety, sovereignty and public interest. “Such a reform was inconceivable for over six decades,” he said, crediting Prime Minister Modi for dismantling long-standing taboos and aligning India’s nuclear policies with global best practices.
Dr. Singh said the Bill strengthens India’s founding vision for nuclear development envisioned by Dr. Homi Bhabha, reaffirming that atomic energy will continue to be used only for peaceful purposes — in civilian power generation, healthcare, agriculture, and advanced research. “From clean energy to cancer treatment, nuclear science today is a force for human welfare,” he added.
Highlighting global energy trends, the Minister stressed that nuclear energy is indispensable for the AI, quantum, and data-driven economy since it offers uninterrupted power — unlike variable renewable sources. He said India’s nuclear power capacity has nearly doubled from 4.4 gigawatts (GW) in 2014 to 8.7 GW in 2025, and the government targets around 100 GW by 2047 to meet 10 percent of the country’s electricity needs while advancing its Net Zero goals.
Dr. Singh also pointed to the emerging role of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to cater to future energy demands in industrial corridors, dense urban clusters, and economic zones — ensuring both energy security and environmental sustainability.
“The SHANTI Bill has been widely welcomed by scientists, industry, startups and innovators,” he said. “It exemplifies Modi 3.0’s reform-first approach, where science-led policy is shaping India’s transformation into a developed nation by 2047.”
