India's Push for Nuclear Energy: A Sustainable Solution for AI and Railways

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has emphasized the importance of small and modular nuclear reactors in meeting the energy needs of India's AI-driven economy and railway sector. With the recent passage of the Nuclear Energy Development and Peace Bill, the country is set to harness nuclear power as a sustainable and pollution-free energy source. Vaishnaw highlighted the potential of these reactors to provide substantial energy for data centers and railway operations, ensuring a cleaner future. The bill also allows private companies to establish nuclear plants, marking a significant step in India's energy strategy. Discover how this initiative could reshape the energy landscape in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 3, 2026, 10:31 IST

Nuclear Energy as a Key Resource

On Friday, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the potential of small and modular nuclear reactors to meet the energy demands of data centers essential for an AI-driven economy and the railway sector.

The Rail Minister stated that with the passage of the Nuclear Energy Development and Peace Bill, India is poised for a transformative economic future.

During an event in Delhi, Vaishnaw remarked, 'As the world embraces artificial intelligence, data centers will power the AI-based economy. These centers will require substantial energy, which can only be supplied by nuclear power.'

He emphasized that nuclear energy is the only source capable of providing sustainable base load and high electrical currents without pollution.

Vaishnaw noted that new designs allow for the establishment of nuclear power plants in containers, which can be set up on just 14 acres of land.

He also mentioned that nuclear power plants, with capacities ranging from 15 to 30 megawatts, used for powering ships, could be utilized for railway operations as well.

The Minister pointed out that the railway network draws electricity from the grid at 700 locations across the country, and small modular reactors could serve as a reliable energy source.

He added that nuclear power plants come equipped with numerous inherent safety features that facilitate their widespread use.

Vaishnaw concluded by stating, 'The Peace Bill was passed to ensure that nuclear energy becomes a major source of clean energy.' The bill, which allows private sector companies to establish nuclear power plants, was approved by both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha during last month's winter session, and has received the assent of President Droupadi Murmu.