In a historic move with far-reaching implications for India's energy security, President Droupadi Murmu has granted her assent to the SHANTI bill. This pivotal legislation officially opens the nation's nuclear power sector to private participation for the first time, marking a significant shift in policy.
What the SHANTI Bill Enables
The new law, which received the presidential nod on 21 December 2025, creates a structured framework for private investment in nuclear energy. It empowers private companies, as well as joint ventures, to undertake the complete lifecycle of nuclear power generation. Under the provisions of the bill, eligible entities can now build, own, operate, and decommission nuclear power plants within the country.
This participation, however, is not without strict oversight. All such projects will require a formal license from the Government of India. The regulatory framework ensures that safety, security, and national strategic interests remain paramount, with private operations conducted under the close supervision of established atomic energy authorities.
A New Chapter for India's Energy Ambitions
This legislative change is set to catalyze a new phase of growth in India's nuclear power capacity. By inviting private capital and technological expertise, the government aims to accelerate the expansion of clean, baseload energy sources. This aligns with India's dual goals of meeting its soaring electricity demand and reducing its carbon footprint.
The move is expected to attract significant domestic and potentially international investment into a sector that was previously the exclusive domain of state-owned enterprises like the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). It promises to bring in advanced technology, improve efficiency, and foster innovation through competition.
Implications and the Road Ahead
The assent to the SHANTI bill is more than just a policy reform; it is a strategic reimagining of India's energy infrastructure. For the private sector, it unveils a massive, long-term investment opportunity in a high-tech, regulated industry. For the nation, it means a potential leap in nuclear energy output, contributing to energy independence and climate commitments.
Analysts suggest that successful implementation will hinge on a robust and transparent licensing regime, clear guidelines on liability, and sustained public engagement to build trust. The development signals the government's commitment to leveraging all available avenues to secure a sustainable and powerful energy future for India.
The final step of presidential assent on 21 December 2025, closes the legislative process, setting the stage for the drafting of detailed rules and the issuance of the first licenses to private players eager to enter this new frontier.
