India is exploring the use of nuclear power in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with scientists from the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) assessing potential locations for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
A Department of Atomic Energy team is visiting all three districts of the Union Territory from September 4 to 8, 2026, as electricity requirements are expected to rise alongside planned large-scale infrastructure development.
The proposed reactors are being considered to meet power demand associated with projects including the International Container Transshipment Terminal, a greenfield international airport, deep-water multipurpose ports and other infrastructure.
BARC Begins Search For Potential Reactor Sites
BARC scientists are examining suitable locations across the three districts during the five-day visit.
The team met Andaman and Nicobar Islands Lieutenant Governor Admiral D K Joshi on September 4 at Lok Niwas and made a presentation covering prospective locations and other aspects of the proposed SMR plan.
The site assessment follows a recommendation to consider SMRs for the islands as electricity demand increases with the development of new infrastructure.
Great Nicobar Project To Drive Power Requirements
The nuclear power proposal comes as the Great Nicobar Project takes shape. The development includes a 14.2 million TEU International Container Transshipment Terminal at Galathea Bay, a greenfield international airport, a planned township and power infrastructure.
The transshipment terminal is planned to leverage Great Nicobar's location near major east-west shipping routes, while the airport and township form part of the broader development of the island.
Reliable electricity supply is a key requirement for the planned terminal, airport and associated urban infrastructure.
Strategic Importance Of Great Nicobar
Great Nicobar is located close to major maritime routes connecting the Indian Ocean with Southeast Asia. The Centre has classified the Great Nicobar Project as having strategic, defence and national importance.
The island is also home to INS Baaz at Campbell Bay. The naval air station was commissioned in 2012 and is India's southernmost air station. Its location overlooks the Strait of Malacca and the Six Degree Channel.
The wider Andaman and Nicobar archipelago is also home to the Andaman and Nicobar Command, India's only integrated tri-services command.
The proposed SMRs would add a potential nuclear power source to the infrastructure being planned across the islands as their electricity requirements expand.