India Rewrites its Nuclear Energy Rulebook

India’s nuclear energy framework is set for its most consequential reset in decades with the passage of the Shanti Bill. In this episode, host Anirban Chowdhury speaks to ET’s executive editor, politics Pranab Dhal Samanta and Anubhuti Vishnoi to unpack what the new law changes and why it matters now. The discussion traces India’s long nuclear journey: from staying outside the Non-Proliferation Treaty and building indigenous capabilities, to gaining global legitimacy after the Indo-US nuclear deal. Yet, despite access to international fuel and technology, expansion remained sluggish, constrained by strict liability norms and a tightly controlled, state-led model. The Shanti Bill seeks to change that. It consolidates existing laws into a single framework, removes supplier liability, aligns compensation rules with global conventions, and introduces graded liability caps. Crucially, it opens the door to private participation, separates regulatory and operational roles, and clarifies responsibilities across the nuclear fuel cycle while keeping strategic control with the state. As nuclear power is expected to play a larger role in India’s long-term energy mix, this episode explains how the new framework could reshape the future of civilian nuclear power in the country. You can follow Anirban Chowdhury on his social media: X and LinkedinCheck out other interesting episodes from the host likeBattle Beyond Borders, Peace Perished: Explaining the Pahalgam Terror Attack, Corner Office Conversation with Sridhar Vembu, CEO, of Zoho Corporation, Rebel Foods’ chief on Building Brands, Tech, and an IPO on the Horizon and much more.Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube.Credits: Films Division, Indian National Congress, DNAIndiaNews, AP Archive, MintSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.