No entry for pvt sector in N-power generation

The government today said private sector cannot participate in nuclear power generation under the existing Atomic Energy Act but a review is required in view of changing situation.

"Atomic Energy Act, 1962 allows nuclear power generation only by a central government company," Prithviraj Chavan, Minister of State in the PMO, told Lok Sabha during Question Hour.

As far as manufacturing of equipment and components is concerned, he said no policy change is required.

In fact, the government has encouraged and worked with both public and private companies in this regard, the minister said.

It was only in nuclear power generation that no decision has been taken with regard to private sector's participation, he said.

The existing Act was last repealed in 1962 and since then various developments have taken place in the area, the minister said.

The review of the Act is under consideration for the past 10 years, he said.

An expert committee was set up in 1997 under the chairmanship of scientist Raja Ramana who gave a report in 1998, he said.

Asked about recommendations of the Committee, Chavan said these related to national security and strengthening of the regulatory mechanism in the atomic energy.