WASHINGTON, Aug 26: India and the United States have discussed ways to expand their partnership in the civil nuclear sector, with senior officials reviewing ongoing developments and policy measures aimed at promoting greater cooperation between the two countries.
Atomic Energy Commission Chairman and Department of Atomic Energy Secretary Ajit Kumar Mohanty met US Energy Secretary Chris Wright in Washington on Wednesday. The meeting took place ahead of the launch of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications at Sea (ATLAS) initiative.
According to the Department of Atomic Energy, the talks covered developments in the bilateral civilian nuclear sector and measures that could help advance cooperation for the mutual benefit of India and the US.
Mohanty’s visit coincides with the IAEA’s efforts to examine the potential use of small modular reactors (SMRs) in civilian maritime applications. The ATLAS programme is designed to support the exploration of nuclear technology for powering commercial vessels and supplying energy to offshore facilities.
The initiative comes as the maritime industry looks for alternatives to conventional fuels while seeking more reliable and sustainable sources of energy. It is expected to encourage dialogue between nuclear regulators, technology developers, shipping companies and other stakeholders.
The IAEA has said the ATLAS launch will provide political backing for the initiative while creating greater engagement between the nuclear and maritime sectors. Discussions are expected to address regulatory and legal requirements, nuclear safety, security, safeguards and liability issues associated with the deployment of nuclear technologies at sea.
The programme will also seek to identify regulatory gaps and areas where international standards may need greater coordination. These discussions are intended to contribute towards an actionable roadmap for the responsible adoption of nuclear technology in maritime operations.
The India-US discussions assume significance as New Delhi moves to broaden participation in its civilian nuclear industry. India has set an ambitious target of achieving 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047 and has taken steps towards allowing greater private-sector involvement in the sector.
The opening of the nuclear industry to private companies has generated interest among US based nuclear energy firms, several of which are examining potential investment, technology and partnership opportunities in India.
Greater cooperation with American companies could support India’s efforts to expand its nuclear generation capacity while creating opportunities for technology collaboration and investment.
The latest engagement also reflects the wider evolution of India-US energy ties, with both sides looking at emerging nuclear technologies and new applications beyond conventional power generation.
