Shift to thorium for energy security of Viksit Bharat: Anil Kakodkar

Renowned scientist Dr Anil Kakodkar, spoke to The Sunday Guardian on why he believes focusing on using thorium as a source of power generation was vital for India’s growth.

- ABHINANDAN MISHRA

Dr Kakodkar, who is Chancellor, Homi Bhabha National Institute and Chairman, Rajiv Gandhi Science & Technology Commission, and had headed the Atomic Energy Commission, argues that thorium offers a path to energy security and net-zero emissions crucial for India’s development. He also spoke on the concerns over nuclear safety post the Fukushima disaster and India’s no first use policy.

Edited excerpts:

Q: Dr Kakodkar, you have been speaking and writing about the need to focus more on thorium generated energy to power India’s aspirations. If you have to give two arguments to convince people in deciding authority to invest more in what you are suggesting, what would that be?