India's Landmark Nuclear Milestone: Indigenous Reactor Achieves First Criticality

Prime Minister Modi hails a 'historic milestone' as India's Prototype Fast Breeder Nuclear Reactor at Kalpakkam attains first criticality, marking significant advancement in indigenous nuclear technology. This achievement underscores India's commitment to energy security and the development of homegrown solutions.

In a significant leap for India's nuclear capabilities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the indigenous Prototype Fast Breeder Nuclear Reactor at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, for achieving 'first criticality'. Celebrating the success during his 'Mann Ki Baat' broadcast, Modi described the occasion as a 'historic milestone' for India's nuclear journey.

The reactor, entirely built with indigenous technology, achieved this critical stage on 6th April 2026, as per the Department of Atomic Energy. The milestone marks the beginning of the reactor's operational phase and underscores India's progress toward energy security and self-reliance in nuclear technology.

This advancement illustrates the prowess of India's design and engineering capabilities, demonstrating the country's capability to leverage uranium and thorium resources for long-term sustainable energy, preparing for the future thorium-based reactors. The achievement is a testament to India's strategic vision in ensuring long-term clean energy solutions.