Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday said that India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) marks a major milestone in the country’s journey towards self-reliant energy security, addressing the VAKTAVYA 2026 platform.
Highlighting the significance of the development, the Minister noted that the PFBR, developed indigenously, reflects India’s growing strength in advanced nuclear technology and its commitment to reducing dependence on external energy resources.
The PFBR, located at Kalpakkam, recently achieved “criticality”, a key stage in which a self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction is established. This achievement formally signals India’s entry into the second stage of its three-stage nuclear power programme.
Dr. Singh emphasized that fast breeder reactors are unique in their ability to generate more fissile material than they consume, thereby ensuring long-term fuel sustainability. He added that the technology would play a crucial role in leveraging India’s vast thorium reserves for future energy production.
Describing the development as a “defining step”, he said the PFBR strengthens the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat while advancing clean and reliable energy solutions. The project also places India among a select group of nations possessing sophisticated breeder reactor capabilities.
The Minister underlined that the milestone is not only a scientific achievement but also a strategic asset that will support the country’s long-term energy security and sustainability goals.