New Delhi, April 4: The Union Government has stated that there is currently no active proposal to establish a nuclear power facility in Punjab. Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Jitendra Singh, provided this clarification in the Rajya Sabha while responding to inquiries regarding the state’s role in India’s energy transition. The minister noted that while a site in the Patiala district was once deemed viable, no feasibility reviews are presently underway for the region.
Historical records indicate that a location at Patran in Patiala was evaluated in the early 2000s and found suitable for a 2,800-megawatt station. However, the project did not advance because the state government at the time did not move forward with a policy decision in 2007. The minister affirmed that any future consideration for nuclear projects in Punjab remains entirely dependent on a formal proposal from the state administration.
Addressing safety and environmental concerns, the government maintained that the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited continues to lead public awareness initiatives. These programs are designed to foster a credible understanding of atomic energy among local communities and policymakers. The ministry asserted that transparency remains a priority, with regular safety updates provided through official regulatory channels.
While no alternative sites are currently under evaluation in Punjab, the Centre declared that the Standing Site Selection Committee remains available to review any future locations suggested by the state. For now, Punjab is not included in the immediate roadmap for the country’s nuclear energy expansion, as the government continues to focus on regions with active state-level support.
