BARC Explores Small Modular Reactors for Andaman & Nicobar Amid Rising Infrastructure Demand
The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is assessing the feasibility of deploying Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to meet the projected increase in electricity demand arising from major infrastructure development. A team of BARC scientists under the Department of Atomic Energy is conducting site assessments across all three districts from September 4 to 8, 2026.
Key Governance Highlights
. Energy Security: SMRs are being examined as a potential source of reliable and continuous power for the strategically important island territory.
.Infrastructure-Led Demand: Upcoming projects, including the Great Nicobar infrastructure programme, international container transhipment terminal, greenfield airport and deep-water port facilities, are expected to substantially increase electricity requirements.
. Indigenous Nuclear Technology: The initiative aligns with India’s Nuclear Energy Mission, under which BARC is developing indigenous SMR technologies, including the 220 MWe BSMR-200 and 55 MWe SMR-55.
.Remote-Area Infrastructure: The compact and scalable nature of SMRs makes them a potential option for locations where conventional large nuclear power plants may face infrastructure and logistical constraints.
.Strategic Development: Strengthening dependable power infrastructure can support long-term economic, connectivity and public-service development across the islands.
.Policy Assessment: The current exercise is focused on site assessment and feasibility, and should not be interpreted as a final decision to construct a nuclear power plant.
Policy Perspective
The proposed assessment represents an important step towards integrating advanced nuclear technology with regional infrastructure planning. For the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a dependable energy ecosystem will be increasingly important as connectivity, transportation, port and urban infrastructure expands.
The initiative also reflects India’s broader objective of increasing the role of low-carbon nuclear energy, indigenous technology and resilient power systems in long-term national development. The Union Government has allocated ₹20,000 crore under the Nuclear Energy Mission for research, design, development and deployment of SMRs.
Overall, the BARC site-assessment exercise highlights a governance approach focused on energy resilience, infrastructure preparedness, technological self-reliance and sustainable regional development.
