SHANTI Bill Biggest Science Reform of Modi Era: Jitendra Singh
Speaking in a media interaction, the Minister said the third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, referred to as Modi 3.0, is distinctly marked by bold and structural reforms with a strong focus on science, innovation and entrepreneurship. He noted that while past reform narratives largely centred on welfare and governance, future national growth will increasingly be shaped by reforms in science and technology.
Dr Singh said the SHANTI Bill breaks a six-decade stalemate in India’s nuclear sector, unlocking its potential for peaceful, clean and sustainable energy while maintaining strict standards of safety, sovereignty and public interest. He added that the reform aligns India’s nuclear framework with global best practices and enables civilian expansion in clean power generation, healthcare and advanced research.
Highlighting India’s clean energy roadmap, the Minister said nuclear power capacity has doubled from about 4.4 GW in 2014 to nearly 8.7 GW, with a target of reaching around 100 GW by 2047. He noted that nuclear energy will be critical in supporting emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing and data-driven infrastructure, given its ability to provide reliable round-the-clock power.
Dr Singh also pointed to the growing role of nuclear science in healthcare, particularly in cancer diagnosis and treatment through nuclear medicine and isotopes. He added that the move towards Small Modular Reactors will further strengthen energy security for urban centres, industrial corridors and economic zones.
The Minister said the SHANTI Bill has received wide acceptance across the scientific community, industry and the innovation ecosystem, reflecting a national consensus on reforming and modernising India’s nuclear sector as part of the Modi 3.0 vision for a developed nation by 2047.