Khandela Uranium Reserve and Rajasthan’s Nuclear Energy Expansion

After 52 years of Rawatbhata Nuclear Plant, Rajasthan will get its second nuclear power plant in Banswara of 2800MW capacity. Rawatbhatta nuclear power plant will also be further expanded. After the expansion of Rawatbhata and completion of Banswara project, state’s nuclear power capacity will reach up to 6680 MW. Rawatbhata’s capacity will be increased up to 3880 MW. Atomic Minerals Directorate has found uranium reserves in Khandela (Sikar district), reducing external dependency. Exploration is also underway in Udaipur, Dausa, and other parts of Sikar district. Currently, India has 24 nuclear reactors with 8080 MW capacity. With new units, capacity will rise to 10,180 MW, with Rajasthan emerging as a key hub. At present, Kudankulam (Tamil Nadu, 2000 MW) has the largest nuclear plant, but Rawatbhata will surpass it once its all units are operational. Nuclear energy will play a vital role in energy security, reducing carbon footprint, and supporting the Green Power Mission in the next decade.

Detailed Explanation for Aspirants

• Strategic Importance: Nuclear power offers stable and clean base-load energy compared to solar and wind, which are intermittent. Rajasthan’s development in this sector strengthens India’s energy diversification.
• Rawatbhata Nuclear Power Plant (Rajasthan): Established in 1973 in Chittorgarh district, one of India’s oldest and largest nuclear energy hubs. Multiple reactors already operational.
• Banswara Nuclear Project: Second major plant, will add 2800 MW capacity, making Rajasthan a central player in India’s nuclear grid.
• Uranium Reserves in Khandela (Sikar): Discovery of uranium is crucial, as India largely imports uranium from countries like Kazakhstan, Canada, and Russia. Local reserves will reduce dependency and ensure steady supply.
• Future Prospects: With rising power demand, nuclear energy will complement renewable energy sources. Rajasthan is likely to become a nuclear energy hub, playing a key role in India’s clean energy transition.
• National Context: India aims to expand nuclear capacity to 22,480 MW by 2031. Rajasthan’s contribution will be significant.
• Green Energy Mission: Nuclear power is carbon-free at generation stage, helping India meet Paris Climate Agreement targets.
• Economic Benefits: Development of uranium mining in Khandela and power plants in Rawatbhata–Banswara will generate employment, infrastructure growth, and energy security.

MCQs

Q. Which district of Rajasthan has reported uranium reserves that will reduce dependence on external fuel for nuclear plants?
(a) Banswara
(b) Chittorgarh
(c) Sikar (Khandela)
(d) Dausa
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Uranium reserves were discovered in Khandela, Sikar district, by the Atomic Minerals Directorate. This will reduce reliance on imported uranium, crucial for Rawatbhata and upcoming Banswara nuclear projects.

Q. After expansion of Rawatbhata and completion of Banswara nuclear power projects, Rajasthan’s nuclear energy capacity will be approximately—
(a) 3880 MW
(b) 6680 MW
(c) 8080 MW
(d) 10,180 MW
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Rawatbhata plant’s capacity will increase to 3880 MW, and Banswara project will add 2800 MW, bringing Rajasthan’s nuclear capacity to around 6680 MW.