Nuclear Deal — Current Affairs 2026
Current Affairs Connections
India-US Partnership on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) includes nuclear cooperation expansion
January 2023The iCET initiative launched during PM Modi's visit to the US expanded the nuclear partnership beyond traditional reactor cooperation to include advanced technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs), nuclear fuel cycle technologies, and space nuclear applications. This represents the evolution of the 2008 nuclear deal into broader strategic technology cooperation, reflecting both countries' recognition of nuclear energy's role in clean energy transition and strategic competition with China.
UPSC Angle: Questions on evolution of India-US strategic partnership, role of nuclear energy in clean energy transition, and technology cooperation in strategic competition
Westinghouse signs MoU with Nuclear Power Corporation of India for AP1000 reactors deployment
March 2024After years of delays due to Westinghouse's bankruptcy and liability concerns, the company signed a new MoU with NPCIL for deploying AP1000 reactors in India. This development shows the resilience of the nuclear partnership despite commercial challenges and demonstrates how the 2008 deal's framework continues to facilitate new nuclear projects. The agreement includes provisions for technology transfer and local manufacturing, aligning with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
UPSC Angle: Questions on implementation challenges of international agreements, role of private sector in nuclear cooperation, and balance between technology transfer and indigenous development