Seeking to fast-track nuclear power projects in the country, a Bill to amend the Atomic Energy Act to enable Nuclear Power Corporation of India to enter into joint ventures with other public sector undertakings was introduced in the Lok Sabha on December 7. The amendment has been brought to facilitate the fast expansion of nuclear power, utility and establishment, living up to India’s commitment of using nuclear energy for peaceful purpose. The Atomic Energy (Amendment) Bill, 2015, was moved by Minister of State in the Department of Atomic of Energy (DAE) Jitendra Singh as the government wanted to expedite nuclear reactor projects in order to meet the requirements of electricity and energy in India even as constraint was being faced in terms of financial implications.

What is the use of this bill??

• The move will help in getting funds for big ticket projects amid frequent concerns over lack of financial resources being raised by the DAE.
• The amendment will enable NPCIL, which is one of the PSUs of DAE, to enter into joint ventures with other government undertakings.
• With the amendments, the government seeks to facilitate entry of the NPCIL for joint ventures with other PSUs.
• After its passage by Parliament, a PSU with the Ministry of Power can collaborate with NPCIL and help in the common objective of power generation network.

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What is NPCIL?