International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi said India’s newly passed Shanti Act is "very positive and significant."
The legislation is a critical component of India's strategy to transform into a global nuclear power hub. By easing rules on foreign investment, the act seeks to accelerate the development of nuclear infrastructure and energy production.
In an interview with NDTV, Grossi said the act backs the country’s plan to rapidly expand nuclear power [1]. This expansion aligns with a broader global trend toward nuclear energy as nations seek stable, low-carbon power sources [3].
India has set an ambitious target nuclear capacity of 100 GW [3]. The potential for growth is substantial, with some estimates placing the value of India's future nuclear market at $300 billion [4].
While endorsing the legislative progress, Grossi also addressed the security risks associated with nuclear energy in unstable regions. He said, "We must remain vigilant about attacks on nuclear plants in conflict zones" [1].
The Shanti Act is designed to remove regulatory hurdles that previously slowed the entry of international partners. This shift allows India to leverage global expertise and capital to meet its energy demands, while adhering to international safety standards monitored by the IAEA.
“"India’s new Shanti Act is very positive and significant."”
The IAEA's endorsement of the Shanti Act provides international legitimacy to India's aggressive nuclear expansion. By lowering barriers to foreign investment, India is positioning itself to attract massive capital inflows from countries like the U.S., potentially shifting the geopolitical landscape of energy production in Asia.
