IAEA chief backs India’s NSG bid, highlights growing nuclear role

Rafael Grossi

Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), described India's global role in nuclear energy as "indisputable" on his recent visit to India. Grossi, in an interview with The Economic Times, expressed strong support for India's bid to join the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), a 48-member organization dedicated to preventing nuclear proliferation by controlling the export of nuclear materials and technology.

Grossi emphasized that nations with significant nuclear programs that demonstrate a commitment to responsible nuclear trade should be welcomed into the NSG.

Reflecting on his time as NSG president, he noted, "We got very close," mentioning that India's entry was not hindered by its own qualifications but by "the multilateral dynamics at the time." Some countries, including China and New Zealand, had previously expressed concerns about India’s inclusion in the group.

Grossi’s visit coincided with his participation in the Raisina Dialogue, a geopolitical conference aimed at enhancing cooperation between India and the IAEA in areas such as nuclear energy and cancer care.

During his trip, he praised India’s expertise in cancer treatment, announcing, "I am proud to recognize Tata Memorial as an IAEA Rays of Hope Anchor Centre." He highlighted India’s leadership in the Global South and its potential to share its knowledge of cancer care globally, stating, "With this partnership, we will bring India’s know-how to regions that need it most."

The Tata Memorial Centre, a leading cancer care institution, has been designated as the latest Rays of Hope Anchor Centre, joining six others in the Asia-Pacific region. With this addition, there are now 11 such centers worldwide, serving as hubs for knowledge sharing and capacity building to improve access to cancer care, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

On the civil nuclear front, Grossi inaugurated the SN Bose Building at the Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP) and launched a certificate course in nuclear engineering in collaboration with India’s Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

He emphasized the importance of a skilled workforce to sustain the growth of nuclear energy, particularly in Asia, stating, "India is an important nuclear country, and the IAEA partnering with the DAE at GCNEP will help train the next generation of workers."

Grossi also met with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and DAE Secretary Ajit Kumar Mohanty. Commenting on India’s expanding nuclear program, he said, "India’s civil nuclear programme—from power to health and agriculture—is growing rapidly. As a leading nation of the Global South, it plays an important role in shaping the future of nuclear science."

His visit followed India’s recent announcement to establish five small modular reactors, signifying its commitment to advancing nuclear technology.