India Rushes to Build Own Light Water Nuclear Reactor: Why It Matters

• India is prioritizing the fabrication of an indigenous Light Water Reactor (LWR) to strengthen its nuclear power sector and enhance its negotiating position with foreign suppliers.
• LWRs are the most common type of nuclear reactor globally, dominating the market with over 85% of civilian nuclear capacity, and India aims to embed its firms in international supply chains.
• The Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Act, 2025, facilitates imported LWR-based projects, similar to those with Russia in Kudankulam.
• While India has strong expertise in Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), LWRs offer simpler designs, lower costs due to economies of scale, and higher thermal efficiency.
• India's long-term strategy involves leveraging its vast thorium reserves and PHWR capabilities, potentially positioning itself as a supplier of thorium-fueled PHWRs to emerging economies.

Why It Matters: India is accelerating its own LWR development to boost nuclear self-reliance and global market presence.