Bill for fast-tracking nuke power projects likely this session

Changes to Atomic Energy Act passed last month, to allow Nuclear Power Corp to sign JVs with other PSUs, and help ease funding for big ticket projects

A bill seeking to fast-track nuclear power projects is likely to be introduced in the Winter Session of Parliament, while another legislation for according greater autonomy to the atomic energy regulator may not be brought this time.

The Union Cabinet had last month approved amendments to the Atomic Energy Act to enable Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) to enter into join ventures with other public sector undertakings (PSUs).

The move will help secure funds for big ticket projects. Concern over lack of financial resources has been raised by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) frequently. The amendment will enable NPCIL, which is one of the PSUs under the DAE, to enter into joint ventures with other government undertakings.

However, sources said, the Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority (NSRA) Bill may not be presented before Parliament even in this session. The NSRA Bill will seek to create a more independent authority, replacing the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB)---the atomic energy sector watchdog.

The Bill, first introduced in the Lok Sabha in 2011, has lapsed and will have to be reintroduced.