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UPSC CSE Preparation

In India, why are some nuclear reactors kept under “IAEA Safeguards” while others are not?

Correct Answer B. Some use imported uranium and others use domestic supplies

Explanation

Option B is correct: Under the 2008 civil-military separation plan codified pursuant to the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, India agreed to separate its nuclear facilities into civilian and military streams:

– Civil nuclear reactors that rely on imported uranium fuel (sourced from countries such as Russia, Kazakhstan, Canada, and France) are placed under voluntary International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Safeguards to verify that imported fissile material is utilized exclusively for peaceful energy generation.
– Nuclear facilities fueled exclusively by domestic uranium sources and indigenous development are retained outside international safeguards.
– All commercial nuclear reactors in India are state-owned and operated by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).

Therefore, the distinction arises because Some use imported uranium and others use domestic supplies — Option B.

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