Roadmap for Answer Writing
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Introduction
- Begin with a brief introduction to nuclear science and technology in India.
- Mention milestones or turning points in India’s nuclear journey (e.g., the establishment of the Atomic Energy Commission).
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Body of the Answer
a) Early Phase of Nuclear Science and Technology in India
- Homi J. Bhabha’s vision: The father of India’s nuclear program, established in 1948, focusing on peaceful nuclear energy use.
- Establishment of Atomic Energy Commission (1948): Set the foundation for the atomic energy programs.
- First research reactor (1956): APSARA was Asia’s first nuclear reactor (source: Department of Atomic Energy, Govt. of India).
- India’s First Nuclear Power Plant (1969): Tarapur Atomic Power Station.
b) Developmental Phases of India’s Nuclear Technology
- Pokhran-I (1974): India became a nuclear power after conducting its first successful nuclear test (Smiling Buddha).
- Pokhran-II (1998): India conducted five nuclear tests, marking its official entry as a nuclear weapons state.
- Current nuclear energy capacity (2023): India operates 22 nuclear reactors with an installed capacity of 6,780 MW (source: International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA).
c) Growth and Achievements
- Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) role: Responsible for the generation of nuclear power.
- International collaborations: India collaborates with the USA, France, and Russia to expand its nuclear technology infrastructure.
d) Advantage of Fast Breeder Reactor Program
- Energy security and sustainability: Fast breeder reactors generate more fissile material than they consume, ensuring a longer-term nuclear fuel supply.
- Thorium utilization: India has abundant thorium reserves. Fast breeder reactors allow efficient use of thorium as a fuel.
- India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR): This project is part of India’s three-stage nuclear power program aimed at securing energy sustainability (source: World Nuclear Association, WNA).
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Conclusion
- Summarize the progress and potential of India’s nuclear program.
- Emphasize the importance of the fast breeder reactor program in ensuring India’s energy independence.
Growth and Development of Nuclear Science and Technology in India
1. Early Developments and Milestones:
**1. Foundation and Initial Steps:
**2. Advancement in Nuclear Technology:
**3. Recent Developments:
Advantages of Fast Breeder Reactor Program:
**1. Enhanced Fuel Efficiency:
**2. Thorium Utilization:
**3. Reduction of Radioactive Waste:
**4. Increased Energy Output:
Recent Example:
Conclusion:
Model Answer
Introduction
India’s journey in nuclear science and technology began post-independence with the establishment of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) in 1948, under the leadership of Homi J. Bhabha. This marked the inception of India’s nuclear program aimed at harnessing atomic energy for national development and strategic needs.
As of 2023, India is advancing in the second stage with ongoing development and testing of Fast Breeder Reactors.
Advantages of the Fast Breeder Reactor Program
Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) are crucial to India’s nuclear strategy, offering several advantages:
Conclusion
In conclusion, the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India reflect a commitment to harnessing nuclear energy for sustainable development. The Fast Breeder Reactor program is a pivotal component of this strategy, promising to enhance energy security while addressing environmental concerns.