India is set to receive next-generation nuclear fuel this summer, according to Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom’s head, Alexey Likhachev. Likhachev emphasized the importance of India as a key partner in the nuclear sector, highlighting the robust cooperation between the two nations, as reported by Russia Today (RT).
On Thursday, Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Ajit Kumar Mohanty was hosted by Russian Atomic Chief Alexey Likhachev in the Tomsk region of Siberia, Russia. During this visit, Mohanty was shown the fourth-generation site that will house what is touted to be the safest atomic reactor in history. This significant development marks a pivotal step in Indo-Russian nuclear collaboration.
The leaders of the Indian and Russian nuclear industries toured the Pilot Demonstration Energy Complex (PDEC) under construction in Seversk, Tomsk. This facility is part of the “Proryv” (“Breakthrough”) strategic industry project. The visit included in-depth discussions on expanding Russian-Indian cooperation in the nuclear field.
“We are ready for a serious expansion of cooperation with India in the peaceful use of nuclear energy. This includes the serial construction of Russian-designed high-capacity nuclear power units at a new site in India, implementation of land-based and floating low-power generation projects, cooperation in the nuclear fuel cycle, and non-power applications of nuclear technologies,” stated Likhachev.
Chairman Mohanty is on a visit to Tomsk, Russia, accompanied by Indian Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar. They also toured Tomsk State University and engaged with regional governor Vladimir Mazur. The discussions with Mazur covered potential areas of cooperation, including pharmaceuticals, high technology, education, and research.
During his visit to Tomsk State University, Ambassador Kumar delivered an open lecture on “India-Russia relations in the current global scenario” and interacted with Indian students from various universities in Tomsk. This visit underscores the multifaceted relationship between India and Russia, extending beyond nuclear cooperation to educational and technological collaborations.
The forthcoming delivery of next-generation nuclear fuel to India signifies a milestone in Indo-Russian relations, showcasing a shared commitment to advancing nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. This partnership not only strengthens the strategic ties between the two countries but also paves the way for significant advancements in nuclear energy and technology.
The enhanced collaboration in nuclear technology is expected to include the serial construction of advanced nuclear power units designed by Russia. These units are slated to be constructed at a new site in India, further solidifying the partnership. Additionally, projects involving both land-based and floating low-power generation will be explored, highlighting the versatility and innovation within the cooperation framework.
Furthermore, the partnership will extend to the nuclear fuel cycle and non-power applications of nuclear technologies. This comprehensive approach ensures that the benefits of nuclear cooperation are maximized, addressing both energy needs and broader technological advancements.
The ongoing dialogue and visits between Indian and Russian officials underscore the depth of this strategic partnership. With the upcoming delivery of next-generation nuclear fuel, the foundation is set for a new era of nuclear collaboration, promising mutual benefits and advancements in nuclear technology.
As India and Russia continue to build on their longstanding relationship, the focus on nuclear energy serves as a testament to their commitment to sustainable and peaceful technological progress. This development is poised to have far-reaching impacts, not only on the energy landscape of both nations but also on their global standing in the field of nuclear technology.
