The Maharashtra government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Russia’s state-owned nuclear energy corporation ROSATOM to jointly develop a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) powered by thorium fuel. The agreement, signed in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, marks a major push towards advanced nuclear technology under the state’s ‘Make in Maharashtra’ initiative.
The MoU, executed between Maharashtra State Power Generation Co. Ltd (MAHAGENCO) and ROSATOM’s ‘Small Modular Reactor with Thorium Fuel’ programme, focuses on three core objectives: the joint development of thorium-fueled SMRs within the state, commercial deployment of the reactors in line with Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) safety standards, and the establishment of a local manufacturing and assembly line to scale production.
The Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA) will play a key role in providing strategic support to the project. A joint working group will be formed to ensure smooth coordination and research between the participating organisations—MAHAGENCO, Rosatom Energy Projects, MITRA, and Global Technology Alliance.
According to an official statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), all development activities under this collaboration will strictly adhere to the guidelines laid down by the Government of India and the AERB. Legal provisions and nuclear safety protocols will be rigorously followed throughout the implementation process.
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This collaboration reflects Maharashtra’s proactive stance in leveraging global partnerships for next-generation energy solutions and reinforces its ambition to emerge as a national leader in advanced nuclear energy technology.