India is preparing to issue its largest-ever nuclear EPC tender worth ₹28,000 crore for its indigenous reactor programme, marking a major push towards expanding domestic nuclear power capacity.

Government Readies Landmark Nuclear EPC Contract for Homegrown Reactor Programme

India is set to issue its biggest-ever engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) tender, valued at approximately ₹28,000 crore, for the expansion of its indigenous nuclear reactor programme. The move is expected to significantly boost the country’s nuclear power generation capacity and strengthen its long-term clean energy strategy.

The proposed tender represents a major milestone in India’s efforts to scale up domestic nuclear infrastructure and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The project will focus on indigenous reactor technology developed under the country’s nuclear programme and is expected to attract leading infrastructure and engineering firms.

Major Push for Indigenous Nuclear Energy

The upcoming tender is part of India’s broader ambition to expand its nuclear energy footprint using homegrown technology. The country has been steadily increasing investment in nuclear infrastructure, with multiple reactors currently under construction and several more in the planning stage.

India’s long-term strategy places nuclear energy at the centre of its clean-energy transition, with policymakers viewing the sector as essential for meeting future electricity demand while reducing carbon emissions.

The development follows recent milestones in the country’s nuclear programme, including the successful first criticality of the indigenously developed 500 MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu.

What the EPC Tender Means

Engineering, procurement and construction contracts cover the complete execution of large infrastructure projects—from design and material procurement to construction and commissioning.

With an estimated value of ₹28,000 crore, the proposed nuclear tender is expected to become one of the largest infrastructure contracts ever issued in India’s energy sector.

Industry experts believe the tender could provide a significant boost to domestic manufacturing, engineering companies, and the broader supply chain linked to nuclear power development.

Nuclear Expansion Remains a National Priority

The government has accelerated its nuclear expansion plans in recent years. According to the Department of Atomic Energy, seventeen reactors with a combined capacity of 13,100 MW are currently under implementation, including several indigenous 700-MW pressurised heavy-water reactors.

Alongside large reactors, India is also investing heavily in next-generation technologies. Under the Nuclear Energy Mission announced in the Union Budget 2025–26, the government allocated ₹20,000 crore for the research and development of indigenous small modular reactors (SMRs).

The Department of Atomic Energy is currently working on multiple indigenous designs, including the Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR-200) and the SMR-55.

Clean Energy and Energy Security Goals

India’s push for nuclear power comes amid growing electricity demand and the need to diversify its energy mix. Nuclear energy is increasingly seen as a stable source of low-carbon electricity capable of complementing renewable sources such as solar and wind power.

The country has also strengthened international partnerships to support its nuclear ambitions. Earlier this month, India and Australia finalised an administrative arrangement aimed at securing long-term uranium supplies for India’s civil nuclear programme.

Officials believe that expanding nuclear capacity will play a crucial role in enhancing energy security and supporting India’s climate commitments.

Why This Matters

The ₹28,000-crore tender signals the government’s determination to accelerate the growth of India’s indigenous nuclear sector. Beyond increasing electricity generation, the project could create jobs, strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities, and stimulate investment in advanced technologies.

The move also reflects India’s broader objective of building a self-reliant energy ecosystem while positioning nuclear power as a key pillar of sustainable development.

Key Takeaways

• India is preparing to issue its largest-ever nuclear EPC tender worth ₹28,000 crore.
• The project is aimed at expanding the country’s indigenous reactor programme.
• Seventeen nuclear reactors with a combined capacity of 13,100 MW are currently under implementation.
• The government has allocated ₹20,000 crore for small modular reactor development under the Nuclear Energy Mission.
• Nuclear energy is expected to play a major role in India’s clean-energy and energy-security goals.

Category: India | Energy | Infrastructure | Business