Nagrota:In a compelling lecture delivered on 08 April 25, distinguished speakers Neeraj Gaur and Mahesh Prasad from Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) emphasized the pivotal role of nuclear energy in India’s transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
The session, titled “Nuclear Energy for Clean Transformation”, was covered under following heads: –
Nuclear Energy: A Clean and Reliable Option
Neeraj Gaur opened the lecture by highlighting the increasing global urgency to reduce carbon emissions and tackle climate change. He emphasized that while renewable sources like solar and wind are important, they alone cannot meet the growing energy demands of a developing country like India without support from a consistent and reliable base-load source — a role nuclear energy is well-positioned to fulfill. While elaborating on the technical and safety advancements in India’s nuclear infrastructure. He presented data from NPCIL projects, showcasing the success of existing nuclear power plants and the roadmap for future expansions. He stressed that modern nuclear facilities adhere to stringent international safety standards and are designed with multiple layers of protection.
Addressing Myths and Concerns
The speaker addressed common misconceptions surrounding nuclear energy, particularly regarding safety and waste disposal. They clarified how contemporary technologies and long-term planning have made nuclear a much safer and environmentally friendly option than perceived. Additionally, he discussed the minimal land footprint and lifecycle carbon emissions of nuclear energy compared to fossil fuels and some renewables.
Concluding the lecture, speaker called upon the NCC Cadets to consider careers in the nuclear sector and contribute to India’s clean energy mission. They also encouraged active public engagement and awareness to dispel fears and build support for nuclear initiatives.
The interactive session ended with a lively Q&A, where Cadets raised thoughtful questions about nuclear safety, and the integration of nuclear with other renewable sources.
