Department of Atomic Energy Year End Review 2025

In 2025, the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) made significant strides in nuclear power, healthcare, and agriculture, reinforcing India's leadership in innovation and strategic autonomy. This is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it touches upon GS Paper 3, focusing on Science & Technology, Economic Development, and Security. Last Updated: 2025-12-15

Key Facts About Department of Atomic Energy Year End Review 2025

• Nuclear Power Expansion: The foundation stone for the Mahi Banswara Nuclear Power Plant was laid, and 10 new PHWR units were approved.
• Record Generation: The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) achieved 56,681 million units of electricity generation in FY 2024-25.
• Healthcare Innovations: The Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital was inaugurated in Bihar.
• Global Recognition: The Tata Memorial Hospital was designated as an IAEA Rays of Hope Anchor Center.
• Strategic Autonomy: Developed the first CRM for Rare Earth Elements.
• Electronics-grade Boron Facility: Commissioned in Talcher, Odisha.
• National Security: Developed the Weapon Control System for Astra Missile.
• Agricultural Advances: Released new high-yield crop varieties TBM-9 Banana and RTS-43 Sorghum.
• Food Preservation: Expanded gamma radiation facilities to 40 across India.
• Institutional Excellence: HBNI ranked highly in NIRF 2025.
• Nuclear Energy Mission: Budget initiated to develop 5 indigenous SMRs by 2033.
• Current Capacity: India’s nuclear power stands at 8.18 GW, targeting 22.48 GW by 2031-32.
• 3-Stage Nuclear Program: Transition to thorium-based reactors outlined.

India's Strategic Autonomy and Innovation

The advancements by the Department of Atomic Energy in 2025 are pivotal for India's strategic autonomy and innovation. With a focus on increasing nuclear power capacity and enhancing healthcare and agriculture, these efforts align with India's economic and social goals. The country's nuclear power capacity aims to reach 22.48 GW by 2031-32, positioning India as a global leader in sustainable energy solutions.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Make in India: Encourages domestic manufacturing in nuclear technology.
• National Cancer Control Programme: Supports the establishment of cancer hospitals.
• National Mission on Rare Earths: Focuses on strategic autonomy in rare earth elements.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 3: Science & Technology, Economic Development, Security.
• Prelims: Questions on nuclear power capacity, healthcare innovations, and agricultural advancements.
• Mains: Analytical themes on India's energy security, healthcare infrastructure, and strategic autonomy.
• Essay Paper: Topics on innovation and strategic autonomy.

FAQ Section

• What is the Department of Atomic Energy? The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is a government department responsible for nuclear technology development, including power generation, healthcare, and agricultural innovations.
• Why is the Department of Atomic Energy important? DAE is crucial for India's strategic autonomy, contributing to national security, scientific excellence, and societal development. It aims to increase nuclear power capacity to 22.48 GW by 2031-32.
• What are the key features of DAE's 2025 review? Key features include the expansion of nuclear power, healthcare innovations, strategic autonomy in rare earth elements, and agricultural advancements with new crop varieties.