India's PFBR Attains Criticality

India has achieved a major milestone in its civil nuclear program with the indigenously designed and built Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam attaining criticality. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced this development, highlighting it as a defining step in advancing the second stage of India's three-stage nuclear program, originally envisioned by Homi J. Bhabha. The PFBR, a 500 MW reactor designed by the India — Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research and constructed by BHAVINI, is capable of producing more nuclear fuel than it consumes. This 'breeder' capability is crucial for India's long-term energy security, as it allows for the efficient use of limited uranium reserves and abundant thorium resources. The India — Atomic Energy Regulatory Board had granted necessary permissions for fuel loading and criticality. This achievement positions India as the second country, after Russia, to operate a commercial Fast Breeder Reactor, showcasing its advanced scientific and engineering capabilities and moving towards a self-sustaining thorium-based energy system.