India has outlined a roadmap to expand its nuclear energy capacity as part of a drive towards self-reliance and to meet its 2070 net zero goal. The plan centres on developing a thorium fuel cycle and deepening cooperation with partner countries for uranium supplies, with Australia cited as a key supplier. Officials described the approach as a long term strategy to balance energy security, low carbon objectives and technological autonomy. The roadmap sets out phases for research, deployment and international collaboration.

The strategy foregrounds thorium, a locally abundant material, as a pillar of longer term energy planning. Authorities intend to advance reactor designs and fuel processing that can utilise thorium in successive stages of the nuclear fuel cycle. Research institutions and public sector units are to receive directed funding and timelines to scale pilot projects into commercial operations. The document stresses that thorium constitutes a sovereign resource that can reduce dependence on imported fuel over time.

At the same time, the roadmap acknowledges the near term need for uranium to support existing reactors and build additional capacity. Engagements with Australia are expected to secure supply chains under international safeguards and to enable phased imports while domestic alternatives mature. The plan envisions supply agreements, technical cooperation and joint research to strengthen resilience of fuel provisions. Officials signalled adherence to non proliferation norms and regulatory standards in all partnerships.

Policymakers framed the nuclear expansion as complementary to renewable deployment in achieving deep decarbonisation by 2070. Investment in human capital, regulatory reform and infrastructure is to accompany reactor construction and fuel cycle development. The roadmap aims to deliver energy diversity, industrial growth and stable baseload power for a growing economy. Implementation will depend on financing, technological progress and sustained international cooperation.