India and Russia are preparing to reinforce their long-standing civil nuclear partnership at the upcoming December annual summit , where discussions are expected to focus on small modular reactors (SMRs) , nuclear fuel-cycle technologies and continued progress at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP) . The dialogue reflects both countries’ commitment to expanding strategic energy cooperation amid India’s growing electricity needs and clean-energy goals.

Focus on SMRs and Emerging Technologies

During recent consultations in Mumbai, the leadership of Rosatom outlined plans for advanced collaboration with India’s Department of Atomic Energy. The agenda emphasised joint development of SMRs , which offer modular construction, lower upfront investment, quicker deployment and enhanced safety. Both sides also discussed cooperation across the nuclear fuel cycle , including enriched uranium supplies, waste-management technologies and research-oriented projects aimed at next-generation reactors.

Progress at Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant

The KNPP remains the central pillar of India–Russia nuclear engagement. Units 1 and 2 are fully operational, adding significant capacity to India’s southern power grid. Unit 3 has entered the pre-commissioning phase, with upcoming safety-system tests marking a major milestone. Unit 4 continues to move through the construction phase, while Units 5 and 6 —part of the third stage of the complex—are advancing through installation and equipment delivery.

Expanding Cooperation Beyond Kudankulam

India and Russia are exploring broader avenues such as SMR deployment in remote or low-grid regions, advanced reactor design research and increased localisation of nuclear components. Greater domestic manufacturing support is expected to cut costs and strengthen India’s nuclear supply chain.

Strategic Significance

The December summit is set to reaffirm nuclear energy as a cornerstone of India–Russia relations. With India targeting long-term energy security and clean-power expansion, Russia remains a crucial partner in both large reactor projects and emerging modular technologies.

Exam Points

• Kudankulam is India’s largest operational nuclear power plant .

• Units 1 & 2 connected to the grid in 2013 and 2016 .

• SMRs offer modularity, lower cost and enhanced safety.

• India–Russia cooperation spans the entire nuclear fuel cycle .

• Unit 3 is in pre-commissioning , Unit 4 under construction, Units 5–6 advancing.

• Summit to deepen collaboration on SMRs, fuel cycle and localisation .