New Delhi, India (Agencies) August 13, 2025 — In a landmark shift, the Indian government has announced plans to dismantle its decades-old state monopoly over the nuclear energy sector, allowing private companies to mine, import, and process uranium. The move is part of an ambitious strategy to expand nuclear power capacity twelvefold by 2047 and attract billions in domestic and foreign investment.
Under the proposed policy, private Indian firms will be permitted to mine and import uranium to meet rising fuel demands, process uranium for use in nuclear reactors, and supply critical control system equipment for nuclear power plants. Foreign companies will also be allowed to take minority stakes in nuclear power plants, marking a significant liberalization of India’s tightly controlled nuclear sector.
The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s long-term energy vision, aiming to make nuclear power contribute up to 5% of India’s total electricity needs by 2047. To facilitate this transformation, the government is drafting a comprehensive regulatory framework and plans to amend five key laws related to mining, electricity, and foreign direct investment.
While the state will retain control over reprocessing spent uranium fuel and managing plutonium waste, in line with global norms, the rest of the supply chain will be opened to private participation. This includes uranium exploration, importation, and reactor component manufacturing.
India possesses an estimated 76,000 tonnes of uranium, enough to power 10,000 megawatts of nuclear energy for 30 years. However, domestic reserves are expected to meet only 25% of the projected demand, necessitating increased imports and processing capacity.
Globally, countries like Canada, South Africa, and the United States already allow private firms to mine and process uranium, offering India a tested model for regulatory adaptation.
Energy experts have hailed the move as “bold and necessary,” with major Indian conglomerates reportedly preparing to enter the sector. “The challenge will be to define quickly the rules of engagement with the private sector,” said Charudatta Palekar, an independent power sector consultant.
The policy is expected to be formally announced within the current fiscal year, potentially reshaping India’s energy landscape and positioning it as a major player in global nuclear development.