Science
AERB Chair Reassures Safety as Private Sector Opens in Nuclear Power
By Tiki Rajwi
A.K. Balasubrahmanian, Chairperson of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), said on the sidelines of a two‑day symposium organised by the Atomic Energy Retirees’ Association that the entry of private players into India’s nuclear energy sector will not compromise safety. He explained that the AERB will create an enabling environment for private entities while maintaining its regulatory and safety standards.
Balasubrahmanian told The Hindu that the sector is being opened at a timely moment, as India aims for 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047 under the Nuclear Mission. He noted that the existing public‑sector infrastructure—primarily the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL), Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI) and the NPCIL‑NTPC joint venture Anushakti Vidhyut Nigam Limited (ASHVINI)—may not suffice to meet the target.
"If we need to increase capacity to this level, we need more players. It is an opportunity for good private‑sector companies with sufficient background in industries such as power or manufacturing," he said.
The chairperson outlined the licensing process for a new entity wishing to construct and operate a nuclear power plant. First, the company must obtain a licence from the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). After that, it must approach the AERB, which will examine the design for safety and the suitability of the site before issuing safety authorisations for siting and construction, provided all regulatory requirements are met.
"The AERB framework does not change whether it is a government agency or a private agency," Balasubrahmanian emphasized.
He also highlighted efforts to ensure that future private nuclear facilities are staffed with adequately trained personnel. Traditionally, key nuclear power plant operators in India are licensed by the AERB and trained at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) Training School. Under the current framework, staff in key decision‑making positions at private plants will also need AERB certification.
The remarks come in the context of the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Act, 2025 (SHANTI Act) and the Union government’s policy decision to welcome private players into the nuclear sector.
Published – November 05, 2026 08:33 am IST
Frequently asked questions
What is the licensing process for a private company to build a nuclear plant in India?
First obtain a licence from the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). Then approach AERB, which examines design and site suitability before issuing safety authorisations for siting and construction, provided all regulatory requirements are met.
Will private nuclear plants in India have the same safety standards as public ones?
Yes, the AERB framework does not change whether the entity is a government agency or a private agency; safety standards remain the same.
What training and certification are required for staff at private nuclear plants?
Staff in key decision‑making positions at private plants will need AERB certification, and traditionally operators are licensed by AERB and trained at BARC Training School.