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Maharashtra, ROSATOM Ink MoU to Develop India’s First Thorium-Based Small Modular Reactor
Apr 15, 2025
In a pioneering move toward advanced nuclear energy technology, the Government of Maharashtra has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ROSATOM, Russia’s state-owned nuclear energy corporation, to develop a thorium-fuelled Small Modular Reactor (SMR) in the state.
The agreement was formalized between Mahagenco (Maharashtra State Power Generation Company) and ROSATOM’s SMR-Thorium initiative, in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
“Glad to witness the MoU signing for developing a thorium-based SMR in Maharashtra — a major step toward clean and advanced energy solutions,” said CM Fadnavis on social media platform X.
Advancing Nuclear Innovation with Thorium
This landmark initiative aims to establish India’s first thorium-powered nuclear reactor, bringing together safety, sustainability, and cutting-edge innovation. Thorium, a safer and more abundant alternative to uranium, is being viewed as a potential game-changer in the clean energy mix.
The project will be developed in line with stringent guidelines set by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) and the Government of India. As part of the ‘Make in Maharashtra’ initiative, the reactor’s assembly line will also promote local manufacturing and supply chain development.
Strategic & Technical Collaboration
The Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA) will offer strategic guidance, while a high-powered joint working group comprising representatives from Mahagenco, MITRA, ROSATOM, and the Global Technology Alliance will drive the project forward.
This collaboration signals a major leap in India’s clean energy ambitions, combining international expertise with local execution to establish a new paradigm in nuclear innovation.