India has marked a major milestone in its nuclear energy program as the indigenously designed and built Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu attained criticality. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the landmark achievement in a social media post, describing it as a defining step in India's civil nuclear journey that advances the second stage of the country's three-stage nuclear program.

Technological Significance and Capabilities

The Prime Minister highlighted the technological significance of the reactor, stating that this advanced reactor is capable of producing more fuel than it consumes. Modi emphasized that the achievement reflects the depth of the nation's scientific capability and the strength of its engineering enterprise. He also called this development a decisive step towards harnessing India's vast thorium reserves in the third stage of the program.

Criticality marks the point at which a nuclear reactor achieves a self-sustaining chain reaction. This represents a key milestone before full power generation, indicating that the reactor core is functioning as designed. The achievement strengthens India's position in advanced nuclear technology and clean energy generation.

Reactor Specifications and Operations

The 500 Megawatt electric Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor PFBR is located at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu and is operated by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI). The reactor represents a key component of India's long-term nuclear strategy.

Once fully operational, India will become only the second country after Russia to have a commercial fast breeder reactor. This positions India among the elite nations with advanced nuclear technology capabilities.

Indigenous Development and Industry Participation

The project has been built indigenously with contributions from over 200 Indian industries, including several Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This extensive industrial participation aligns with the government's push for self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Prime Minister Modi congratulated the scientists and engineers involved in the project, calling it a proud moment for India. The achievement demonstrates the country's growing capabilities in complex nuclear technology development and manufacturing.

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