Background

The India–Euratom framework governs civil nuclear cooperation between India and (Euratom), the nuclear regulator and treaty body of the European Union. It provides the legal and institutional basis for nuclear trade, research collaboration, and safeguards in the peaceful uses of atomic energy.

What is Euratom?

• Euratom is a distinct legal entity established in 1957 to coordinate nuclear research, regulate nuclear safety, and ensure safeguards across EU member states.
• It oversees nuclear materials, sets safety standards, and represents EU nuclear interests internationally.

Evolution of India–Euratom Cooperation

• 2009: India and Euratom signed the Agreement for Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy following India’s nuclear waiver from the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
• The agreement enabled India’s engagement with European nuclear suppliers and research institutions under internationally accepted safeguards.

Objectives of the Framework

• Promote peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
• Facilitate nuclear trade (equipment, components, and services).
• Enable research and development cooperation.
• Ensure nuclear safety, security, and safeguards.
• Support India’s clean energy transition through low-carbon nuclear power.

Key Provisions

• Civil Nuclear Cooperation: Exchange of nuclear materials, equipment, and technology for civilian purposes.
• IAEA Safeguards: All cooperation is subject to International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards to prevent diversion.
• Nuclear Safety & Security: Cooperation on safety standards, radiation protection, waste management, and emergency preparedness.
• Research Collaboration: Joint work in reactor technology, fusion research, and nuclear medicine.
• Non-Military Use: Explicit exclusion of military or weapons-related applications.

Significance for India

• Energy Security: Diversifies India’s nuclear supply chain beyond bilateral partners.
• Clean Energy Goals: Supports India’s net-zero pathway by expanding low-carbon baseload power.
• Technology Access: Opens avenues to advanced European reactor designs and safety practices.
• Global Integration: Reinforces India’s status as a responsible nuclear actor in global governance.

Significance for the EU/Euratom

• Market Access: Entry into one of the world’s fastest-growing nuclear energy markets.
• Strategic Partnership: Strengthens EU engagement in the Indo-Pacific energy landscape.
• Non-Proliferation Norms: Ensures adherence to safeguards while enabling cooperation.

Challenges and Constraints

• Liability Framework: India’s nuclear liability law remains a concern for some European suppliers.
• Project Economics: High capital costs and financing risks affect large reactor projects.
• Regulatory Alignment: Differences in safety certification and standards can slow implementation.

Way Forward

• Operationalise cooperation through project-specific agreements and joint R&D platforms.
• Explore small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced reactors for flexibility and cost control.
• Enhance skills, training, and regulatory exchanges to harmonise standards.
• Integrate nuclear cooperation within broader India–EU energy and climate partnerships.

Conclusion

The India–Euratom framework is a cornerstone of India–EU strategic cooperation in clean energy and advanced technology. By combining India’s growing energy needs with Europe’s regulatory expertise and technology base, it supports energy security, climate goals, and responsible nuclear governance, provided implementation challenges are addressed pragmatically.