New Delhi: The Centre is considering a major policy shift that could allow private companies to participate in parts of India’s tightly controlled thorium sector, as the government looks to strengthen domestic nuclear fuel supplies and accelerate its clean energy ambitions.
According to reports, discussions are underway within the government on a range of measures aimed at increasing thorium production and improving the country’s long term nuclear fuel security. A draft policy is expected to be prepared after consultations with key stakeholders, including the Ministries of Power and Mines.
One of the proposals being examined involves granting private firms limited access to commercially mine monazite rich coastal sands, a key source of thorium. Authorities are also exploring ways to accelerate research and development, reduce the time required to convert thorium into uranium 233, and ensure a stable supply of fuel for future nuclear power generation.
Officials believe the current regulatory framework can be strengthened to better utilise India’s vast thorium reserves. While the country possesses some of the world’s largest thorium resources, its uranium reserves remain relatively limited, making thorium an important component of its long term energy strategy.
The proposed reforms are expected to support India’s efforts to expand clean and reliable energy generation while reducing dependence on imported uranium. Thorium plays a central role in India’s three stage nuclear power programme, as it can be converted into uranium 233, a fissile material capable of powering nuclear reactors.
In addition to easing restrictions on thorium extraction, policymakers are evaluating measures to expand commercial mining activity, strengthen research infrastructure and accelerate the deployment of fast breeder reactors. These reactors are considered critical for advancing India’s thorium based nuclear programme and unlocking the full potential of its indigenous nuclear fuel resources.
If implemented, the reforms could mark a significant step in India’s push to build a more self reliant and sustainable nuclear energy sector while enhancing long term energy security.
