Nuclear Applications — Tech Evolutions

Entry	Year	Description	Impact
Not a direct amendment to Atomic Energy Act, but a related Act	2010	The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, was enacted to provide a framework for civil liability for nuclear damage and prompt compensation to victims. This Act was a response to international conventions and domestic needs, particularly in the context of expanding nuclear power and applications.	It established a no-fault liability regime, primarily placing liability on the operator of a nuclear installation, but also providing for a right of recourse against suppliers under certain conditions. This significantly impacted the legal and financial landscape for both nuclear power projects and facilities involved in large-scale nuclear applications, ensuring greater accountability and victim protection.
Not a direct amendment, but a significant policy shift	2008 (Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement)	While not an amendment to the Atomic Energy Act, the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement (123 Agreement) and the subsequent waiver by the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) in 2008 marked a pivotal shift in India's nuclear policy, allowing it to engage in civil nuclear trade with the international community.	This policy shift opened avenues for India to access advanced nuclear technologies, fuel, and components for its civil nuclear program, including for isotope production and research reactors. It enhanced India's capabilities in various nuclear applications by facilitating international collaboration and access to resources previously restricted due to India's non-NPT status, boosting both power and non-power applications.