ICT Mumbai emerges national leader in nuclear energy, launches Centre for Energy Science and Technology

Finance Minister in her recent budget has committed 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047 and immediate provision has been made of ₹20,000 Crore for research and development.

In line with the National Nuclear Energy Mission, the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai, has announced the launch of the Centre for Energy Science and Technology, a bold and visionary initiative positioning India at the forefront of the global nuclear energy revolution. Drawing upon ICT’s historic strengths in research, innovation, and industry collaboration, the new centre is poised to become a national nucleus for excellence in advanced nuclear energy systems and workforce development.

The announcement was made at a prestigious conclave on ‘Industry-Academia Partnership for Nuclear Science and Technology Development’ at K.V. Auditorium, Institute of Chemical Technology, on 6 May, 2025 in Mumbai. Guest of honour, Dr. Anil Kakodkar, Chancellor, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI) and former chairman, AEC and Secretary, DAE, Govt. of India, addressed the dignitaries present at the conclave. 

“The academic community, in its pursuit of independent and original thought, plays a critical role in shaping the future of our nation and the world. It serves as a guiding light for governments as they chart long-term policies and goals. The backbone of any nation’s progress lies in its commitment to research and development, and I commend the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) for taking a leadership role in advancing R&D in nuclear energy—an area vital to India’s energy security and sustainable growth.” said Dr. Anil Kakodkar.

With a legacy rooted in scientific achievement and societal impact, ICT now sets its sights on reshaping India’s energy landscape. The Centre will focus on next-generation nuclear technologies including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), Micro Modular Reactors (MMRs), Hydrogen Generation, and Accelerator Technologies — critical pillars in India’s clean energy transition.

The Centre will:

• Spearhead the development of advanced, inherently safe reactors, including a 100 MWe PWR based Small Modular Reactor and a 5 MWe Molten Salt-based Micro Modular Reactor.
• Train the next generation of nuclear engineers and scientists, with programs for MTech, PhD, and post-doctoral researchers including the prestigious Kakodkar and Sharma Fellowships.
• Serve as a national hub for start-up incubation, policy advisory, and international collaboration in advanced energy systems.
• Build state-of-the-art laboratories, including simulators, and accelerator facilities to ensure hands-on, application-based learning.
• Develop a dedicated nuclear professional training program, producing over 100 certified experts annually, ready to build and operate India’s future reactors.

Speaking on the initiative, Prof. J B Joshi, Chancellor ICT, emphasised, “India’s energy security depends on our ability to innovate boldly and act decisively. ICT’s Centre for Energy Science and Technology will be a beacon of research, talent, and technology, aligned with the national vision for self-reliance and sustainability.”

Through this initiative, ICT reinforces its reputation as a national institution of excellence, and a driving force in India’s development agenda. The Centre will not only transform the country’s nuclear energy capabilities but also cultivate a generation of technologists, researchers, and policy leaders committed to clean, reliable, and secure energy for all.