BARC is advancing the design and development of multiple Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technologies under the Nuclear Energy Mission, supported by an allocation of INR 200 billion in the Union Budget 2025–26. The programme targets the deployment of five indigenous SMRs by 2033 and is central to India’s plan to expand nuclear capacity for industrial decarbonisation and long-term energy security.
According to information provided in Parliament, BARC is progressing three indigenous SMR designs. The 200 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR-200) is at an advanced stage of administrative and financial sanction, while the 55 MWe SMR-55 and an up to 5 MWth high-temperature gas-cooled reactor intended for hydrogen generation are also under development. Lead units for these technologies are proposed to be constructed at Department of Atomic Energy sites for demonstration. The government stated that once sanctioned, these reactors are expected to be built within 60 to 72 months. The BSMR-200 is based on pressurised water reactor technology, uses slightly enriched uranium fuel, and incorporates passive and engineered safety systems.
The SMR programme coincides with expanded international engagement. A recent meeting between the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Russia’s Rosatom focused on cooperation in nuclear energy, including potential collaboration on both large and small reactors, nuclear fuel cycle activities, and localisation of equipment manufacturing in India. Discussions also covered the prospect of constructing Russian-designed SMRs in the country, adding an external technology pathway alongside indigenous designs.
Parallel to BARC’s work, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited is advancing the Bharat Small Reactor initiative for captive industrial use. An RFP issued on 31 December 2024 invited Indian industry participation within the approved business model. A pre-proposal meeting in February 2025 addressed industry queries, and consolidated clarifications have since been published. Based on requests from interested companies, the deadline for RFP submissions has been extended to 31 March 2026.
The government has reiterated that SMRs are being developed to support repurposing of retiring fossil fuel power plants, enable captive generation for energy-intensive industries, and provide off-grid supply in remote areas. Modular construction is expected to shorten build times and facilitate deployment at brownfield sites where larger units cannot be installed.
Legislative updates are also under way. The draft Atomic Energy Bill 2025 is in an advanced stage of inter-ministerial review, with inputs from various ministries and legal vetting by the Ministry of Law and Justice being incorporated before the draft is placed for approval.
India has set a target of achieving 100 GWe of installed nuclear capacity by 2047. Environmental clearance processes and integrated waste management systems remain mandatory elements of all new nuclear power projects, alongside public awareness initiatives conducted around plant sites.
