Last Updated on April 7, 2026 12:06 pm by BIZNAMA NEWS
Staff Reporter
India has reached a significant milestone in its nuclear power programme with the indigenously designed and built Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu achieving criticality.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the development as a landmark moment in the country’s civil nuclear journey. In a message posted on social media, he said the achievement represents a decisive advance in the second stage of India’s three-stage nuclear power programme.
Emphasising the technological importance of the reactor, the Prime Minister noted that the advanced system is capable of generating more fuel than it consumes. He said the accomplishment demonstrates the depth of India’s scientific expertise and the strength of its engineering capabilities. Mr. Modi also highlighted that the reactor will play a crucial role in eventually utilising the country’s vast thorium reserves during the third phase of the nuclear programme. Calling the milestone a proud moment for the nation, he congratulated the scientists and engineers involved in the project.
The 500-megawatt electric PFBR is located at Kalpakkam and is operated by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI). The reactor forms a key element of India’s long-term nuclear energy strategy. Once it becomes fully operational, India will be only the second country after Russia to operate a commercial fast breeder reactor.
Criticality is a crucial stage in a reactor’s development, marking the point when it achieves a self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction. It serves as an important step before the facility begins full-scale electricity generation, indicating that the reactor core is performing as designed.
The project has been developed largely with indigenous technology and involved contributions from more than 200 Indian industries, including several micro, small and medium enterprises. The effort also aligns with the government’s push to strengthen domestic manufacturing and technological capability under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.