SHANTI Bill Passed by Parliament to Reform Nuclear Law

Parliament has cleared the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy in India (SHANTI) Bill.

key features

• Opening of Nuclear Sector: The SHANTI Bill brings a major shift by allowing private and foreign participation in India’s nuclear power sector, which was earlier fully controlled by the government

• Private Participation & Licensing: Under the Bill, private Indian companies can now obtain licences to build, own, and operate nuclear power plants. It also permits foreign suppliers to participate in the sector

• Government Control & Ownership Pattern: The Bill allows up to 49% private participation, while ensuring 51% government control over critical areas such as: Nuclear fuel production, Heavy water manufacturing etc

• End of NPCIL Monopoly: Earlier, the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) had exclusive control over nuclear plant operations. The Bill removes this monopoly and allows private players and joint ventures to operate nuclear power plants

• Liability Provisions

₹3,000 crore → Large plants (3600 MW)
₹1,500 crore → Medium plants (1500–3600 MW)
₹100 crore → Small Modular Reactors (150 MW)

Exam Tip:

SHANTI Bill = Private entry + End of NPCIL monopoly + SMRs + Fixed liability