India and Russia Explore Collaboration on Small Modular Reactors and Floating Nuclear Plants
During summit talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin, India and Russia explored enhanced cooperation in several areas, including small modular reactors (SMRs), floating nuclear power plants, and the identification of a site for a second Russian-assisted nuclear power project, according to reports. The discussions were held as part of a broader initiative aimed at deepening civil nuclear cooperation and significantly expanding India’s clean energy capacity, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future.
Modi emphasised that energy security is a fundamental pillar of the India–Russia relationship, highlighting that decades of collaboration in civil nuclear energy have been instrumental in advancing the clean energy goals of both nations. Putin, in turn, underscored that the completion of the Kudankulam nuclear plant in Tamil Nadu and its full operational capacity would make a substantial contribution to meeting India’s growing energy needs.
Leaders Signal Nuclear Partnership Expansion
Putin expressed Russia’s readiness to explore collaboration on small modular reactors, floating nuclear power plants, and the non-electric applications of nuclear technology, including in fields like medicine and agriculture. He noted that both sides have engaged in discussions regarding the potential for such partnerships.
A joint statement stated that India and Russia aim to strengthen their collaboration in nuclear energy, covering the entire fuel cycle. This includes providing life-cycle support for the operational units at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) and enhancing efforts towards the peaceful applications of atomic energy. The document also highlighted India’s plan to expand its nuclear capacity to 100 GW by 2047.
The statement emphasised that both parties recognised the importance of ongoing discussions to identify a second site in India for a new nuclear plant. India is committed to finalising the formal allocation in accordance with earlier agreements.
