SHANTI Bill Clears Path for Private Participation in India's Nuclear Power Sector

As per news report, The Union Cabinet has approved the Atomic Energy Bill, 2025, officially titled SHANTI (Sustainable Harnessing of Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India), which enables private sector participation in India's nuclear power sector.  

This reform marks a shift from exclusive government control to a more inclusive regulatory framework. 

Cabinet Approves SHANTI Bill Enabling Private Entry 

On December 12, 2025, the government gave its nod to the SHANTI Bill, paving the way for private firms to enter areas previously reserved for the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).  

These include exploration and mining of atomic minerals, setting up reactors, fuel fabrication, and other supporting infrastructure. The Bill creates a unified legal framework incorporating these changes. 

SHANTI is aligned with India’s objective of achieving 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047. Private participation is expected to enhance capacity building and modernisation within the sector. 

Changes to Existing Legal Provisions 

To accommodate these structural reforms, amendments will be made to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010. These changes are designed to facilitate private investment while maintaining stringent safety and liability protocols. 

Union Ministers informed Parliament earlier in December about the progress of the Bill’s drafting and legislative agenda. Suggestions from multiple ministries have already been incorporated into the final draft. 

Read More: Parliament Approves Cess on Pan Masala Manufacturing for Health and Security! 

Coordination with Global Nuclear Safety Standards 

The draft includes the formation of a dedicated nuclear safety authority. This body will work in close coordination with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to maintain safety benchmarks. A specialised tribunal has also been proposed to handle sector-related disputes, ensuring efficient and unbiased resolution. 

Prime Minister’s Remarks and Industrial Push 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier highlighted the move towards opening the nuclear sector for private firms. Drawing a parallel to reforms in the space sector, he underlined investment opportunities in small modular reactors and nuclear innovation, aiming to strengthen national energy security and boost technological capabilities. 

Conclusion 

The SHANTI Bill signifies a policy shift towards public-private collaboration in the nuclear energy sector. With legal and administrative changes underway, the sector is being aligned with India’s long-term clean energy goals. 

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