From Vision to Execution

Having sought initial support of the US and Canada in 1960s for the setting up of TAPS-1&2 and RAPS-1&2, respectively, NPCIL visualized the indigenization of nuclear power development as its long term goal for the nation. MAPS-1&2 was the first indigenous plant, making certain essential changes in design, sourcing most of the equipment from Indian industry. Decades of further technological developmental work by the Indian nuclear scientists in the laboratories and execution by engineers, put them on a steep learning curve. It eventually led to the evolution of indigenous nuclear design and technology. The Narora Nuclear Power Plant located in Uttar Pradesh, bears ample testimony to the resilience and perseverance of Indian scientists and engineers. Distinctly different from the CANDU design, which had been implemented at its predecessors-RAPS-1&2 and MAPS-1&2, Narora showcases indigenous design as well as equipment; this distinction was achieved in the 1980s and the standardized plant design adopted in all the 220 MWe units thereafter. TAPS-3&4, commissioned recently in August 2007, can be considered to be a high-water mark in the accomplishment of the right design for the nuclear reactors. Bearing the stamp of Indian ingenuity, the recently commissioned TAPS-3&4 220 MWe units, design are equipped with the state-of-the-art facilities and hold a pride of place in the heart of every NPCIL scientist and engineer. It gives NPCIL the confidence in its intrinsic capabilities to forge ahead with the 3-Stage Nuclear Programme, in a resolute manner.

STRONG RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT BASE: EVOLVING COMPETENCIES

The success story of indigenization of various aspects of the nuclear power industry has a strong backing in its Research & Development (R&D) base. This R&D base for nuclear power plants comprises the DAE's Research Centres such as, the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), other national laboratories and specialized departments at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and other renowned academic institutions of the country. TAPS -3&4 have been commissioned ahead of schedule within the stipulated cost, it proves our strength in R&D and successful execution. NPCIL is at present also engaged in R & D with regard to specific plant needs along with Indian industry. Having achieved excellence in the execution of the PHWR technology, NPCIL is now entering the FBR development stage, which will eventually lead to Thorium reactor development.