IAEA Chief Hails India’s Small Nuclear Reactor Push, Warns of Global Nuclear Risks

IAEA chief Rafael Mariano Grossi praised India’s small nuclear reactor initiative, calling it a major step forward. He acknowledged India’s shift from relying on Western nuclear technology to developing its own, with 20 reactors operating smoothly. Despite this, nuclear energy remains a small part of India’s electricity mix, though the government aims for 100 gigawatts. Grossi sees India as a potential global nuclear supplier. He highlighted the need for public-private partnerships in small modular reactors.

On Iran, he noted uranium enrichment near weapons-grade and stressed transparency. Diplomatic talks involving Iran, Russia, and China show progress. A letter from former U.S. President Trump to Iran’s Supreme Leader signals ongoing dialogue. Grossi warned about Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia plant, which remains vulnerable due to conflict. The IAEA’s presence reduces risks but cannot prevent all threats. He hopes for a ceasefire and prioritizes nuclear safety.

IAEA Chief Hails India’s Small Nuclear Reactor Push, Warns of Global Nuclear Risks

Rafael Mariano Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has praised India for its progress in developing small nuclear reactors, calling it a significant step forward. In a recent interview, Grossi highlighted India’s transition from relying on foreign nuclear technology to building its own systems, with 20 domestically developed reactors now operating efficiently. While nuclear energy currently contributes only a small portion of India’s total power supply, the government’s target of generating 100 gigawatts of nuclear energy by 2031 is “achievable,” according to Grossi. He also emphasized India’s potential to become a key player in the global nuclear sector, with the possibility of exporting its technology to other nations.

India’s Nuclear Ambitions and Innovations

Grossi noted that nuclear power requires significant investment, but India’s focus on small modular reactors (SMRs) could transform the industry. These compact reactors, which are more cost-effective and faster to build than traditional ones, could benefit from public-private partnerships or even private ownership under updated policies. He commended India’s evolving legal framework, which encourages innovation and private sector involvement, describing it as a “positive shift” that could accelerate progress. This approach, he believes, could make nuclear energy more accessible, helping India meet its clean energy goals while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Iran’s Nuclear Program: Progress and Concerns

Addressing Iran’s nuclear program, Grossi clarified that while the country does not currently possess nuclear weapons, its uranium enrichment activities have reached levels close to weapons-grade. He acknowledged Iran’s advanced nuclear capabilities but stressed the importance of transparency and cooperation with international monitors. Recent diplomatic discussions involving Iran, Russia, and China in Beijing have shown signs of easing tensions, though challenges remain. Grossi also referenced a controversial letter from former U.S. President Donald Trump to Iran’s Supreme Leader, which—despite uncertainty over its impact—reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts. He reiterated the need for Iran to fully comply with international nuclear agreements to build trust and promote regional stability.

Ukraine’s Nuclear Safety Risks Amid Conflict

Regarding Ukraine, Grossi expressed deep concern over the safety of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Europe’s largest atomic facility, which remains caught in the crossfire of the ongoing war. The plant has faced repeated power outages and attacks, raising fears of a potential radiation disaster. While the IAEA’s presence at the site has helped mitigate risks, Grossi admitted that the agency cannot eliminate all dangers as long as hostilities continue. Describing the facility as “extremely fragile,” he called for urgent diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire. While hopes for peace talks persist, he emphasized that safeguarding the plant and its workers remains the immediate priority to prevent a catastrophic incident.

Global Collaboration for a Safer Future

Throughout the interview, Grossi underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing nuclear challenges. He praised India’s advancements in nuclear innovation and encouraged other nations to explore small reactors as a viable clean energy solution. Simultaneously, he called for renewed diplomacy to manage tensions with Iran and de-escalate the crisis in Ukraine. According to Grossi, balancing technological progress with safety and transparency is essential for ensuring nuclear energy’s role in combating climate change while minimizing proliferation risks.

In summary, Grossi’s remarks reflect both optimism and caution. India’s nuclear ambitions indicate a promising future for clean energy, but global stability depends on resolving geopolitical conflicts and fostering trust among nations. As the IAEA continues to monitor these developments, the world watches closely, knowing that the stakes—for energy security and global safety—have never been higher.