India drafts SHANTI rules proposing single licensing for certified foreign nuclear reactors
What happened
India has released draft SHANTI rules proposing a single-licence regime and regulations for nuclear technology sourced from self-reliant countries. Under the proposed draft details, nuclear reactor designs from foreign suppliers will be permitted only if they are currently operational and certified by a regulatory body in their country of origin or another foreign jurisdiction.
Why it matters
The proposed framework sets clear operational and regulatory entry criteria for international nuclear technology vendors looking to enter the Indian market. By mandating existing operational status and foreign regulatory certification, the rules restrict access to established reactor models while simplifying administrative approvals through a single-licence system.
Bigger picture
The framework reflects India's effort to expand nuclear power capacity while controlling technical and regulatory risks. By leveraging external regulatory approvals and proven operational track records alongside self-reliant domestic development, policy aims to avoid unproven reactor designs as energy demand grows.
Watch next
Monitor upcoming stakeholder consultations on the draft SHANTI regulations, official timelines for policy finalization, and regulatory decisions defining acceptable foreign certifications.