Davos:
In a reassuring statement at the Davos 2025 forum, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi affirmed that India’s nuclear reactors are “absolutely safe,” highlighting the country’s stringent adherence to international nuclear safety standards. This assurance comes as part of a broader discussion on India’s nuclear program, its global nuclear engagements, and the ongoing challenges in the nuclear landscape.
Grossi praised India’s civil nuclear program for its rigorous application of the highest internationally agreed and IAEA-established safety standards and security guidance. This commitment to safety is particularly evident in India’s development of its first fast-breeder nuclear reactor at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu, a project that Grossi described as an “interesting add-on” to India’s nuclear fleet.
India has maintained a voluntary moratorium on nuclear explosive testing since the Pokhran tests in 1998. When questioned about the possibility of India resuming nuclear testing if other countries like China or Pakistan were to do so, Grossi emphasized the international community’s stance on a general ban on nuclear testing. He expressed hope that further testing would not be necessary, either in the subcontinent or globally.
The issue of India’s membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) was also addressed. Grossi, who has previously been involved in efforts to find an equitable solution, noted that while significant progress was made, the final decision rests with the NSG members. He acknowledged the complex political landscape surrounding this issue.
Regarding the India-US civil nuclear deal, Grossi indicated that the full potential of this agreement depends on the decisions made by both India and the US, particularly concerning the liability clause that would facilitate the construction of reactors in India. He highlighted India’s diverse and advanced nuclear technology capabilities, suggesting that current expansion and interest in nuclear energy position the country well for increased cooperation and trade.
Grossi also delved into the precarious situation in Ukraine, where the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant has been under significant stress due to shelling and frequent blackouts. He described the situation as “extremely fragile” and a major challenge for the IAEA, given the risk of a nuclear accident.
On the West Asia front, Grossi discussed the Iranian nuclear program, stating that while there is no evidence of Iran building a nuclear weapon, the country has accumulated substantial amounts of enriched uranium close to weapon-grade levels. The IAEA has not received full cooperation from Tehran in inspections and clarifying outstanding questions, a situation that remains a point of concern.
