Maharashtra State Power Generation Corporation Limited (MAHAGENCO) signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Rosatom (Russia’s State Atomic Energy Corporation) for development of a thorium-based Small Modular Reactor (SMR).
Key Highlights of Agreement
| Feature | Details |
| Parties Involved | MAHAGENCO (India) and Rosatom (Russia) |
| Project Type | Small Modular Reactor (SMR) using Thorium Fuel |
| Location Initiative | Under ‘Make in Maharashtra’ initiative |
| Safety Compliance | Adherence to AERB (Atomic Energy Regulatory Board) norms |
| Deployment Model | Prefabricated modular SMRs with a smaller footprint and cost-effective setup |
| Strategic Body Involved | MITRA – Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (Industry, Trade & Investment Facilitation Cell) |
| Execution Team | Joint Working Group (Mahagenco + Rosatom + stakeholders) |
| Focus Areas | R&D, feasibility studies, commercial deployment, safety regulation compliance |
Why Thorium-Based SMRs Matter?
- Thorium is more abundant in India than uranium.
- Considered safer and cleaner, making it suitable for long-term nuclear energy sustainability.
- India holds one of the largest thorium reserves globally—this aligns with India’s 3-stage nuclear programme (final stage: Thorium-based reactors).
- SMRs allow modular, decentralized power generation—suitable for remote areas.
Institutional Framework:
Rosatom (Russia):
- Russian state atomic energy corporation, established in 2007.
- Controls both civilian and military nuclear sectors in Russia.
- Involved globally in nuclear plant development, technology exports, and nuclear research.
Strategic Significance:
- Positions Maharashtra as a leader in thorium-based nuclear tech.
- Strengthens India–Russia collaboration in civil nuclear energy.
- Boosts indigenous nuclear manufacturing under ‘Make in Maharashtra’.
- Advances India’s vision of clean, reliable, and decentralized energy.
Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB):
| Feature | Details |
| Established | 15 November 1983 under Atomic Energy Act, 1962 |
| Mandate | Ensure safety in use of ionizing radiation & nuclear energy |
| Reporting To | Atomic Energy Commission |
| Legal Authority | Atomic Energy Act (1962), Environment Protection Act (1986) |
| Other Powers | Can enforce Factories Act, 1948 for DAE units |
| Structure | Maximum 5 members: Full-time Chairman and Member-Secretary, with full-time/part-time members |
| Support | Admin support from Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) |