Parliamentary Panel Urges Restoration of Nuclear Funding

A parliamentary panel called for restoring nearly Rs 6,000 crore cut from the Department of Atomic Energy's budget, emphasizing its importance for nuclear research, medical applications, and technological progress. The reduction threatens innovations in reactor safety, waste management, and energy projects, potentially impacting long-term research initiatives.

A parliamentary panel has expressed serious concern regarding a substantial cut of nearly Rs 6,000 crore in the Department of Atomic Energy's allocation against its requested Rs 43,416 crore for the fiscal year 2026. This marked reduction is alarming for the advancement of nuclear research and India's nuclear medical applications.

Chaired by BJP member Bhubaneshwar Kalita, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology has urged immediate corrective action. It asked the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) to prioritize securing essential funding to safeguard progress in nuclear technology and research. The DAE initially sought Rs 43,416 crore, but only Rs 37,483 crore was allocated, as declared in the Union Budget by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

The committee noted that this budgetary cut could decelerate vital projects in basic research and hamper technological developments achieved over years. Long-term research projects, particularly under BARC, IGCAR, and RRCAT, may face setbacks, potentially affecting innovations in reactor safety and other nuclear technologies. The committee recommends reinstating at least Rs 5,934 crore for critical research, industry, and mineral sectors to maintain momentum in nuclear advancements.

(With inputs from agencies.)