The Narendra Modi-led central government has accepted Bihar's request to set up a nuclear power plant, a first in the state that will be among six states to get an atomic plant under India's new Nuclear Energy Mission announced in the Union Budget 2025-26.
On Tuesday, Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced the setting up of a Small Modular Reactor (SMR)-based nuclear power plant in the state following the Centre's approval.
"If the Bihar government sets up a nuclear power plant, the central government is fully prepared to provide support," Khattar said, adding that Bihar had formally requested such a facility and the Centre would assist in its establishment. Details regarding the site and scale of the plant are expected to be finalised in the later stages of project development.
The Nuclear Energy Mission announced by the Centre aims at expanding clean and reliable nuclear power across the country and strengthen regional energy security. The government aims to set up at least one nuclear power plant in every state to ensure the country’s energy security.
"As the country’s growth rate increases, so does electricity demand. Nuclear power is a reliable, sustainable, and long-term energy option," the Union Power Minister said.
Small Modular Reactors, or SMRs, are a newer generation of nuclear technology designed to be more flexible and cost-effective than traditional large-scale reactors. They can be deployed in smaller grids and are considered safer due to their advanced design.
The plant, announced by the Centre ahead of the Assembly elections in the state, is expected to come as a significant shot in the arm for Bihar which has historically struggled with power deficits and infrastructure challenges.
As per officials, the plant will help the state provide a more stable electricity supply and support its industrial ambitions.
Alongside the nuclear plant, the Centre has also approved a 1,000 MW battery storage capacity project in Bihar, aimed at enhancing grid stability and supporting renewable energy integration. The government will provide viability gap funding of Rs 18 lakh per MW for this initiative.
Khattar made the announcement following a meeting of eastern region power ministers, which included representatives from Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The minister said that the government has prepared a comprehensive power vision for 2035, covering thermal, solar, wind, storage, and nuclear energy projects. The decision is part of a broader policy effort to diversify India’s energy mix and address rising electricity demand with advanced nuclear technology.
Praising Bihar for its recent progress in the power sector, the Power Minister noted the installation of eight million smart meters and a significant reduction in technical and commercial losses.
"Bihar was lagging behind in power sector but it has done a considerably good job," he said and assured that the Centre has agreed to supply Bihar with an additional 500 MW of electricity for the next six months to help meet peak summer demand in recognition of these reforms.
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