The Hindu Business Line : N-power sector may be opened up — Changes to Atomic Energy Act await Cabinet nod

A TOTAL review of the Atomic Energy Act is under way to find out areas where modifications are required to enable private participation, both by Indian or foreign companies, for the construction of nuclear power projects in the country, according to Mr S.K. Jain, Chairman and Managing Director, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL). The Atomic Energy Act controls nuclear activities in the country.

Speaking to Business Line , Mr Jain said, ``As per my understanding and knowledge, modifications to the Atomic Energy Act have already been drawn up. They have been reviewed by various ministries and are ready for consideration by the Union Cabinet. Subsequently, Parliament will consider these amendments to the Act.''

``We are hoping that by this year-end the amendments to the Act will be passed by Parliament paving the way for joint venture, (even) 100 per cent private participation in building nuclear power plants in the country.''

Mr Jain stressed that there would, however, be ``built-in clauses'' in the Act which would entail that regulatory aspects connected to sensitive nuclear material and issues of safety would be ``totally under the purview of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).''

AERB is the watchdog body that monitors safety in nuclear power plants in the country. It is in overall control of safety of nuclear power plants in the country.

``AERB will be playing the same role from siting to decommissioning of the private plants. DAE will have total control over the nuclear material. Whatever nuclear material is being purchased and used, it will be under the command of DAE so that they will be effectively regulated,'' Mr Jain said.