Need for pragmatic implementation of n-liability law: Experts

A pragmatic and balanced implementation of civil nuclear liability law is important for ensuring success of India's civilian nuclear energy programme, experts said here Thursday.

Indian industry capabilities are today recognised by foreign technology providers in terms of engineering, manufacturing prowess and quality control, they said at a roundtable discussion on 'India's Civil Nuclear Liability Law and Supplier's Concerns'.

The discussion was organised by the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses and the Indian Pugwash Society.

The experts deliberated extensively on the various interpretations of the terms such as "vendors", "contractors" and "suppliers" used for Indian industries in the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act, 2010, a release said.

The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, or nuclear liability act aims to provide a civil liability for nuclear damage and prompt compensation to the victims of a nuclear incident.

Commenting on the standoff between the vendors and the government over the provisions of the liability act, the experts insisted that the objective of the act should be that the victim in case of a nuclear incident should be able to get prompt and adequate compensation.

They expressed optimism over formulating adequate insurance cover by the Indian insurance giants to address the liability to suppliers and operators arising out of the liability act.

The experts also deliberated upon challenges and prospects for rigorous implementation of nuclear programme through creation of mechanisms for technology absorption as well as to achieve greater degree of indigenisation in nuclear reactor and component manufacturing.