India has achieved a major milestone in its nuclear energy programme as the indigenously developed Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam attained criticality, meaning it has started a self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction.
- The 500 MW reactor is operated by Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
- It is a crucial part of India’s three-stage nuclear programme, advancing the second stage and paving the way for thorium utilization in the third stage.
- The PFBR can produce more fuel than it consumes, showcasing advanced nuclear technology.
- It is called a breeder reactor because it produces more fissile fuel (Plutonium-239) than it consumes by converting Uranium-238.
- Once fully operational, India will become the second country after Russia to have a commercial fast breeder reactor.
- The project is fully indigenous, involving over 200 Indian industries, supporting the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
