India has released draft rules under the SHANTI Act to allow private sector participation in the country's nuclear power projects [1, 2].
This shift marks a significant departure from the traditional state-led model of nuclear energy. By opening the sector to private investment, the government aims to attract foreign technology and create new revenue streams to satisfy rising energy requirements [1, 2].
The draft rules establish the groundwork for how private companies can enter the nuclear generation space. Major power entities, including NTPC, Adani Power, Tata Power, and BHEL, are positioned as potential participants under the new framework [1]. The government said private participation is intended to begin within 2026 [1].
Public consultation for the proposed rules is currently underway. The government said it will accept feedback on the draft SHANTI Act rules until Sept. 4, 2026 [2]. This period allows industry stakeholders and the public to review the liabilities and operational requirements associated with private nuclear ownership.
The initiative focuses on diversifying the energy mix by leveraging private capital. The framework is designed to facilitate the import of advanced nuclear technology, a move that could accelerate the construction of new reactors across the country [2].
While the state has historically maintained a monopoly on nuclear power, the SHANTI Act rules propose a regulated environment where private players can operate. The final rules will determine the specific legal and financial responsibilities of these companies, particularly regarding safety and long-term liability [2].
“The government intends for private participation to begin within 2026.”
The transition toward a privatized nuclear model suggests that India is prioritizing rapid capacity expansion over the traditional state-monopoly approach. By integrating companies like Adani and Tata Power, the government can reduce the fiscal burden of infrastructure development while attempting to bridge the gap in its energy transition goals through foreign technical partnerships.
