Re-evaluating pollution regulation for nuclear power: Addressing India’s unique challenges

Abstract

A prominent global trend in nuclear power plant (NPP) pollution classification is the shift toward integrated regulatory frameworks that unify nuclear and environmental oversight. Leading nuclear nations like the USA and France exemplify this trend through single-agency models that establish unified pollutant limits for both conventional and radioactive emissions. In contrast, India follows a divergent trend, retaining a dual-agency regulatory model that categorizes NPPs as “red” (high risk) and even “orange” (moderate risk) in a color-coded system that is traditionally applied to conventional high-emission industries. This imposes unnecessary compliance burdens, reinforces public misconceptions, and fails to reflect the low environmental impact of NPPs. While the dual-agency model provides specialized oversight, it is in contrast with the global trend of regulatory streamlining. To align with international best practices, we propose (i) replacing the color-coded classification with an oversight-based nomenclature inspired by France’s regulatory trend, (ii) treating NPPs as a distinct category within pollution frameworks while maintaining compliance with nuclear and environmental regulations, and (iii) adopting a single-agency oversight model to unify pollutant limits, in line with the US trend. These reforms would correct India’s misclassification of NPPs, enhance regulatory efficiency, and support nuclear energy’s role in sustainable development.