India has a long-standing interest in thorium-based nuclear reactors, as it has abundant reserves of thorium, but relatively limited reserves of uranium. Thorium is a naturally occurring, slightly radioactive metal that can be used as a nuclear fuel.
India’s nuclear program has been focused on developing the capabilities for peaceful uses of nuclear energy, as well as for military purposes. In recent years, India has made significant progress in its nuclear program, and it has established itself as a major player in the global nuclear industry.
India is actively working on developing thorium-based nuclear reactors, as a way to make use of its abundant thorium resources and reduce its dependence on imported uranium. The Indian government has set up several institutions to conduct research on thorium-based nuclear reactors, including the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).
India has several experimental thorium-based reactors such as the Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR) and the Thorium-based Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (THAWR) under development.
It’s worth noting that thorium-based nuclear reactors are still in the research and development phase, and it will take several decades before the technology becomes commercially viable. However, the potential benefits of thorium-based nuclear reactors as a source of clean, safe, and sustainable energy are significant, and it is expected that India will continue to invest in this area in the future.
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