Bihar is set to become home to eastern India’s first nuclear power plant in Nawada district, utilizing Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology as part of India’s new Rs.20,000 crore Nuclear Energy Mission.

The plant aligns with the government's vision to expand clean nuclear energy and draw private investment by 2047.

Key Points:

First in Eastern India: The proposed plant in Nawada marks Bihar’s—and eastern India’s—first foray into nuclear power generation.

SMR Mission Funding: A dedicated Nuclear Energy Mission with ?20,000 crore has been launched to develop at least five indigenous SMRs by 2033 as part of India’s push for 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047.

NTPC’s Role: NTPC, through its joint venture ASHVINI (49% NTPC–51% NPCIL), is conducting feasibility studies including water availability from local sources and potentially the Ganga River.

Legal & Policy Reforms: Amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act aim to enable private-sector participation in nuclear energy projects.

Strategic Implications: The plant supports India’s energy transition, offering a low-carbon power source and could serve as a template for deploying SMRs at captive or remote locations nationwide .