Atomic Energy on Environment: Rajya Sabha 2012-13 - wwf ...

Atomic Energy on Environment: Rajya Sabha 2012-13

Q. No. Q. Type Date Ans by Ministry Members Title of the Questions Subject Specific Political Party

State Representative

*41 Starred 15.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Balwinder Singh Bhunder

Safety reveiw of Kudankulam Nuclear Project Disaster Management SAD Punjab

Energy Studies

*54 Starred 15.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Tarun Vijay

Completion of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant Disaster Management BJP Uttarakhand

Energy Studies EIA

Environmental Education, NGOs and Media

*56 Starred 15.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Jesudasu Seelam

Uranium found in fish from nagarjunasagar Dam

Freshwater and Marine Conservation INC

Andhra Pradesh

Pollution Water Management

311 Unstarred 15.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Sanjay Raut

Demand of villages near Kaiga nuclear plant Energy Studies SS Maharashtra

EIA

314 Unstarred 15.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri N. K. Singh

Commissioning of Tumalapalle Uranium mine

Alternative Technologies JD(U) Bihar

Energy Studies

315 Unstarred 15.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri A.A. Jinnah

Outreach programme for acceptance of nuclear power

Alternative Technologies DMK Tamil Nadu

Energy Studies

316 Unstarred 15.03.2012 Atomic Energy Dr. T. Subbarami Reddy

Setting up of nuclear plants in Eleventh/Twelfth Plans

Alternative Technologies INC

Andhra Pradesh

Energy Studies

931 Unstarred 22.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri P. Rajeeve

Training to deal emergencies/natural calamities Disaster Management CPI(M) Kerala

932 Unstarred 22.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri A. Elavarasan Steps to allay fears of nuclear plants

Alternative Technologies AIADMK Tamil Nadu

Energy Studies

933 Unstarred 22.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri T.M. Selvaganapathi

Study of safety issues of Kudankulam Power Plant Biosafety DMK Tamil Nadu

Health and Sanitation Pollution

934 Unstarred 22.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri H.K. Dua Uranium in ground water in Punjab Pollution NOM. Nominated

Water Management

935 Unstarred 22.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri M.P. Achuthan

Commissioning of Kudankulam nuclear plant

Alternative Technologies CPI Kerala

Shri D. Raja Biosafety CPI Tamil Nadu Disaster Management Energy Studies Pollution

936 Unstarred 22.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Parshottam Khodabhai Rupala

Research project in Gujarat Agriculture BJP Gujarat

Shri Bharatsinh Prabhatsinh Parmar Energy Studies BJP Gujarat


937 Unstarred 22.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Govindrao Adik

Protest against Kudankulam nuclear plant Disaster Management NCP Maharashtra

Shri Baishnab Parida EIA BJD Odisha

Energy Studies

*232 Starred 29.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri K.N. Balagopal Forty years cap on the life of nuclear reactors Disaster Management CPI(M) Kerala

Energy Studies

Health and Sanitation Pollution

1706 Unstarred 29.03.2012 Atomic Energy Shri A. Elavarasan Inspection of KNPP by AEA Energy Studies AIADMK Tamil Nadu

1707 Unstarred 29.03.2012 Atomic Energy Smt. Kanimozhi

Energy generating capacity of Kalpakkam


Energy Studies

1708 Unstarred 29.03.2012 Atomic Energy Smt. Kanimozhi Commissioned nuclear reactors


Energy Studies

*314 Starred 26.04.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Shivanand Tiwari

Development of Atomic Energy sector Development Energy Studies JD(U) Bihar

2327 Unstarred 26.04.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Tariq Anwar Cases of cancer due to radiation

Alternative Technologies NCP Maharashtra

Disaster Management Energy Studies Health and Sanitation Pollution

2328 Unstarred 26.04.2012 Atomic Energy Shri K.N. Balagopal Applications of nuclear energy

Alternative Technologies CPI(M) Kerala

Disaster Management Energy Studies Health and Sanitation Pollution

2330 Unstarred 26.04.2012 Atomic Energy Smt. Naznin Faruque

Use of atomic energy in agriculture sector Agriculture INC Assam

Alternative Technologies

Energy Studies

2331 Unstarred 26.04.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Bharatsinh Prabhatsinh Parmar

Nuclear power plant at Mithivirdi Disaster Management BJP Gujarat

Shri Parshottam Khodabhai Rupala EIA BJP Gujarat

Energy Studies Health and Sanitation

2946 Unstarred 03.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri V.P. Singh Criteria for selecting Alternative BJP Rajasthan

Badnore atomic energy plants Technologies EIA Energy Studies

2947 Unstarred 03.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Salim Ansari PMO's view of NGOs Energy Studies BSP Uttar Pradesh


2948 Unstarred 03.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri K.N. Balagopal Power generation from nuclear plants


Energy Studies

2950 Unstarred 03.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri M.P. Achuthan

Sri Lankan concern over Kudankulam plant

Alternative Technologies CPI Kerala

Shri D. Raja Disaster Management CPI Tamil Nadu Energy Studies Health and Sanitation Pollution

*484 Starred 10.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri P. Rajeeve Nuclear reactors at Jaitapur


Energy Studies

3721 Unstarred 10.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Om Prakash Mathur

Details of thorium reserves

Alternative Technologies BJP Rajasthan

Energy Studies

3722 Unstarred 10.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri N. Balaganga Shortage of fuel for nuclear power plants

Alternative Technologies AIADMK Tamil Nadu

Energy Studies

3724 Unstarred 10.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Nand Kumar Sai

Global centre for nuclear energy partnership Energy Studies BJP Chhattisgarh


3725 Unstarred 10.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Nand Kumar Sai

Environmental clearance for nuclear plants EIA BJP Chhattisgarh

Energy Studies

*587 Starred 17.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri T.M. Selvaganapathi

Security of KUdankulam nuclear


plant Disaster Management Energy Studies

4496 Unstarred 17.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Ishwarlal Shankarlal Jain

Jaitapur nuclear power project Energy Studies NCP Maharashtra

4497 Unstarred 17.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Husain Dalwai

Environmental concerns on Jaitapur nuclear plant EIA INC Maharashtra

Energy Studies


4498 Unstarred 17.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Ashk Ali Tak Atomic energy plants in Rajasthan Energy Studies INC Rajasthan

4499 Unstarred 17.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Faggan Singh Kulaste

Nuclear station in country Energy Studies BJP

Madhya Pradesh

4500 Unstarred 17.05.2012 Atomic Energy Shri Prakash Javadekar

Electricity generating nuclear plants

Alternative Technologies BJP Maharashtra

Energy Studies

SAFETY REVEIW OF KUDANKULAM NUCLEAR PROJECT 15th March, 2012 RSQ *41 SARDAR BALWINDER SINGH BHUNDAR

(a) whether safety review of the Kudankulam Nuclear Project has been completed; (b) if so, the details in this regard; (c) whether all the apprehensions of the people agitating against the Project have been allayed; (d) whether the Project has been delayed; and (e) if so, the efforts that are being made to put the Project on road?

(a) Yes, Sir. (b) The safety review of Kudankulam project in Tamilnadu post Fukushima (Japan) incident, has been completed by Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). The reviews have found that the Kudankulam reactors are safe against extreme natural events like earthquakes and tsunamis. The reviews have also shown that the Kudankulam reactors have four safety trains against one required. The reactors have a Passive Heat Removal System (PHRS), which would ensure cooling of the reactor core by natural air circulation even in the worst case scenario of total loss of power supply and cooling water sources as it happened at Fukushima (Japan). (c) The Central Government and NPCIL have enhanced public outreach activities manifold, adopting a multi-pronged approach to allay the apprehensions of the local people about the project in consultation with the State Government. The expert group constituted by the Central Government has addressed all the apprehensions of the agitating people. (d) Yes, sir. However, a cumulative physical progress of 99.2% in Unit-1 and 94.6% in Unit-2 with an overall progress of 97.4% has been achieved in the Kudankulam Project, so far. (e) The project work is expected to be resumed soon in view of initiatives pointed at (c) above. COMPLETION OF KUDANKULAM NUCLEAR POWER PLANT 15th March, 2012 RSQ *54 SHRI TARUN VIJAY

(a) the percentage of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant that has been completed and the total investment on the project till date;

(b) by when Government plans to operationalise its various units; (c) whether Government has evidence of foreign funding of the NGOs protesting against the project at

Kudankulam; (d) if so, the names thereof; (e) the actions, if any, that have been taken against such NGOs; and (f) the reasons for the reactor under construction being VVER 1000 type and not VVER 1200, which happens

to be a generation ahead of the former from the point of view of safety? (a) A cumulative physical progress of 99.2% in Unit-1 and 94.6% in Unit-2, with an overall progress of 97.4% has been achieved in the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project in Tamilnadu. The total expenditure on the project up to January 2012 is Rs.14326 crore. (b) The work on the project has been halted due to the protest by the locals and the groups ideologically opposed to nuclear power. All efforts are being made by the Government to resolve the impasse in consultation with the State Government. The schedule of operationalisation of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project will be worked out after normalization of the situation.

(c) Preliminary reports indicate receipt of foreign funds by the NGOs who are opposing Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant. (d) As the investigations have been ordered, it is not feasible to furnish the details at this stage. (e) CBI enquiry has been initiated against two NGOs and criminal cases have been referred in respect of two NGOs to Tamilnadu Police. (f) The reactors under construction at Kudankulam have safety features at par with those of VVER 1200. URANIUM FOUND IN FISH FROM NAGARJUNASAGAR DAM 15th March, 2012 RSQ *56 SHRI JESUDASU SEELAM

(a) whether Government is aware that researchers funded by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre have found uranium in fish caught in the Nagarjunasagar Dam in Andhra Pradesh; and

(b) if so, the details thereof? (a)&(b) Yes Sir. Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has awarded a project to SRM University, Chennai, Tamilnadu for a comprehensive study of uranium content in various environmental matrices including water and ‘biota’ i.e. , the animal and/or plant life of a particular habitat, of Nagarjunasagar reservoir in Andhra Pradesh, since the water from the said reservoir is used for drinking purposes in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad of Andhra Pradesh. Under the same study/project the measurement of uranium content in fish, samples has also been carried out. Due to its natural occurrence in soil and rocks of the earth crust, uranium is present in all environmental matrices such as air, water, soil, sediment, food materials and the biota. Its concentration in soil varies from 1to 5 micro grammes per gram i.e. 1 to 5 parts in a million parts of a gram; it varies in water from 1 to 3 nanogrammes per milliliter i.e. 1 to 3 parts of a billion parts of a milliliter; while in fish it varies from 5 to 60 nanogrammes per gram (wet weight). In Nagarjunasagar reservoir, the uranium content in fish was found to vary from 20 to 30 nanogrammes per gram of fish (wet weight) which is within the normal concentration range in fish found in other parts of the country. DEMAND OF VILLAGES NEAR KAIGA NUCLEAR PLANT 15th March, 2012 RSQ 311 SHRI SANJAY RAUT

(a) whether it is a fact that residents of villages in the vicinity of the Kaiga atomic power station are agitating over their demands;

(b) if so, the details of their demands; (c) the number of promises made to the villagers of the Kaiga that have been fulfilled; and (d) the number that are yet to be fulfilled?

(a)&(b) The villagers in the vicinity of Kaiga, Karnataka are demanding that land falling in the sterilized zone (beyond the plant boundary upto 5 km radius) be acquired by the project and Rehabilitation & Resettlement (R&R), compensation and employment for each family be provided. (c) The land for Kaiga Atomic Power Project was acquired in the year 1985. The rehabilitation and resettlement of all project affected persons has been completed. No promises were made to the people living in the vicinity regarding acquisition land in the sterilized zone. (d) Does not arise. OUTREACH PROGRAMME FOR ACCEPTANCE OF NUCLEAR POWER 15th March, 2012

RSQ 315 SHRI A.A. JINNAH

(a) whether amid protests holding up new nuclear power projects, the country''s atomic energy establishment, Atomic Energy Commission is looking to scale up its outreach programmes to enhance public acceptance of nuclear power;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Nuclear Power Corporation has initiated developmental activities around the project sites to

scale up the outreach programme to win people''s confidence; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

(a)&(b) The Fukushima accident in Japan in March 2011 generated apprehensions among a section of people. These apprehensions were primarily about safety of nuclear power plants, radiation etc. Soon after the event, a safety review of nuclear power plants in operation and under construction in the country was taken up by Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). It has been found that Indian nuclear power plants were safe and had margins and features in design to withstand extreme natural events like earthquake and tsunami. Reports of the reviews were posted at Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), AERB and NPCIL websites for information of public. The public outreach activities were scaled up manifold to allay apprehensions, in a structured manner, by adopting a multipronged approach in and around of nuclear power plant sites. The campaigns have also been extended to other parts of the country. To supplement the scaled up outreach activities, NPCIL has entered into partnership with several agencies like Vigyan Prasar of the Department of Science & Technology, DAVP, UFO Movies etc. NPCIL has approved the scaled up outreach plans for long term, as well. (c)&(d) NPCIL has been carrying out neighborhood welfare activities in the areas of education, health and infrastructure development. NPCIL has adopted a policy of investing minimum 2% of its profit towards inclusive growth of the neighborhood around its sites. At the new greenfield sites, NPCIL, as a policy has taken up welfare activities upfront to meet the needs and aspirations of the people, in addition to the Resettlement & Rehabilitation package as applicable in local context. SETTING UP OF NUCLEAR PLANTS IN ELEVENTH TWELFTH PLANS 15th March, 2012 RSQ 316 DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY

(a) the number of nuclear power projects set up/proposed to be set up in the country during the Eleventh and Twelfth Plans, State-wise;

(b) the total estimated cost of each project, its capacity and the time-frame for commissioning of the proposed power stations; and

(c) the various safeguards taken or proposed to be taken in the installation and operation of these projects? (a)&(b) The projects completed in XI Five Year Plan/ expected to be completed in XII Five Year Plan with requisite details are listed below:- (as given in annexure 1) Work on new nuclear power projects and pre-project activities are planned in the XII Plan as per the following details: (as given in annexure 2)

Annexure -1 Project Location & State Capacity (MW) Approved cost Rs. in

crore Expected completion

Kaiga 3&4 Kaiga, Karnataka 2 x 220 3282.00 Completed RAPP 5&6 Rawatbhata,

Rajasthan 2 x 220 3072.00 Completed

KKNPP 1&2 Kudankulam, Tamilnadu

2 x 1000 13171.00 * Completion was expected in 2011-12. But the project is delayed due to

agitation.

PFBR Kalpakkam, Tamilnadu

500 3492.00* 2014-15

KAPP 3&4 Kakrapar, Gujarat 2 x 700 11459.00 2015-16 RAPP 7&8 Rawatbhata,

Rajasthan 2 x 700 12320.00 2016-17

* Under Revision.

Annexure -2 Project Location Capacity (MW) Gorakhpur 1&2 Gorakhpur, Haryana 2 x 700 Chutka, 1&2 Chutka, Madhya Pradesh 2 x 700 Mahi Banswara, 1&2 Mahi Banswara, Rajasthan 2 x 700 Kaiga, 5&6 Kaiga, Karnataka 2 x 700 Kudankulam, 3&4 Kudankulam, Tamilnadu 2 x 1000 Jaitapur, 1&2 Jaitapur, Maharashtra 2 x 1650 Kovvada, 1&2 Kovvada, Andhra Pradesh 2 x 1500 Chhaya Mithi Virdi, 1&2 Chhaya Mithi Virdi, Gujarat 2 x 1100 FBR 1&2 Kalpakkam, Tamilnadu 2 x 500 Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR)

Location to be decided 300

These projects are expected to be completed in the XIII Five Year Plan / early XIV Five Year Plan depending on their actual start dates. Their cost estimates will be evolved as the project proposals are finalized. Pre-project activities are also planned at Bhimpur in Madhya Pradesh (4 x 700) and Haripur in West Bengal (6 x 1000 MW). (c) Safety is accorded utmost priority in all aspects of nuclear power plants. At each stage of the plant like siting, construction, equipment erection, commissioning and operation, safety is reviewed and authorization accorded by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). The reactors of indigenous design – Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) and Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) follow the latest safety standards prescribed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which are regulated by the AERB. In respect of Light Water Reactors (LWRs) set up in technical cooperation with foreign countries, safety requirements of regulatory body of the vendor country as well as Indian regulatory body, i.e. AERB are to be satisfied. The AERB independently reviews and accords stage-wise clearance / approvals for setting up reactors in India. Post Fukushima, (Japan) incident, safety of the Indian nuclear power plants has been reviewed by task forces of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and the AERB. The reviews found that the plants are safe and have margins and features to withstand extreme natural events such as Tsunami, Earthquake etc., TRAINING TO DEAL EMERGENCIES NATURAL CALAMITIES 22nd March, 2012 RSQ 931 SHRI P. RAJEEVE

(a) whether staff at nuclear power plants is given training to deal with emergencies/natural calamities such as earthquakes/tsunamis;

(b) if so, the details of the training programmes that have been conducted till date from 2004 onwards, year-wise and plant-wise; and

(c) if not, the reasons therefor? (a) Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has a structured training programme for training the plant personnel on various plant procedures including Emergency Operating Procedures (EOP) for handling off-normal conditions. The emergency procedures include contingencies arising out of floods, tsunamis, cyclonic storms, earthquakes and fire.

(b) The relevant training programmes on EOPs for off-normal conditions are regularly conducted in batches to the plant personnel at all the nuclear power plants. Retraining on these topics is also imparted regularly to the operation personnel as a part of the licensing process. On an average, at every site five training programmes in this regard have been conducted every year since 2004. (c) Does not arise STEPS TO ALLAY FEARS OF NUCLEAR PLANTS 22nd March, 2012 RSQ 932 SHRI A. ELAVARASAN

(a) whether strong protests at proposed nuclear power plants in Kudankulam and Jaitapur, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) has begun a concerted nation-wide campaign to allay public fears about radiation and its linkage with health hazards such as cancer;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether this marks a change of stance by the company as it seeks to restart the work at its plants and

Government pushes to continue the opening up India''s nuclear power industry; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

(a)&(b) Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has scaled up its public outreach activities in a structured manner by adopting a multipronged approach to allay the apprehensions of the people living around Kudankulam, Jaitapur and other nuclear power plant sites in the country regarding safety of nuclear power, radiation and health etc. Towards this, interactive sessions with press, students, villagers have been held and correct information is being disseminated through TV channels, radio, newspapers, pamphlets etc. (c) While pursuing nuclear power programme the government has always attached highest importance to safety, security & livelihood of people of the neighbourhood. India’s energy needs are very large. Nuclear energy will play a major part in future for achieving energy security of the country. India’s nuclear policy has not undergone any change. (d) Does not arise. STUDY OF SAFETY ISSUES OF KUDANKULAM POWER PLANT 22nd March, 2012 RSQ 933 SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI

(a) whether the high level experts panel set up by Government to study the entire gamut of safety issues related to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project have rejected the possibility that radiation from functioning nuclear power plants across the country would increase cancer and birth deformity cases;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether similar studies have been undertaken in respect of other nuclear plants in the country on the same

issue; and (d) if so, the results of such studies?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) Yes, Sir. (b) The group of experts from diverse fields, namely academicians, scientists, engineers, radiation experts and doctors etc. constituted by the Central Government to study entire gamut of safety issues related to Kudankulam submitted its report in December 2011. It has concluded that incidence of cancers and birth defects is not increased due to radiation from operating nuclear power plants. It has also been conveyed that the people living around

Kudankulam nuclear power plant need not be apprehensive as the operation of the plant would not give rise to any deleterious health effects. (c) Yes, Sir. (d) The studies have found that there has not been any rise in cancer morbidity, birth defects or other ailments and there is no significant change in radiation level in the environment compared to the base line data collected before operation of nuclear power plant. URANIUM IN GROUND WATER IN PUNJAB 22nd March, 2012 RSQ 934 SHRI H.K. DUA

(a) whether Government is aware of the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre''s (BARC) report confirming traces of uranium in ground water in several districts of southern Punjab;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether some research has been carried to find out whether this is the cause of high prevalence of cancer

in the region; (d) whether BARC has confirmed that the high prevalence of cancer is the cause of the presence of uranium in

the sub-soil water in the region; and (e) the steps Government is going to take to ensure that the presence of uranium does not affect either the

crops or the health of the people of the region? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY): (a) Yes Sir, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in collaboration with Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar has analysed uranium content in water from four districts (Bhatinda, Mansa, Faridkot and Ferozpur) of Punjab state. Elevated levels of uranium were found in some of the water samples. (b) In the study being carried out by BARC in collaboration with GNDU since Sept. 2009, uranium content of 520 water samples collected from four districts (Bhatinda, Mansa, Faridkot and Ferozpur) of Punjab State was measured. Uranium concentration in these water samples ranged from 2.1 – 644 ppb (microgram per litre). In a new study, BARC has collected 92 water samples from remaining thirteen (13) districts (TaranTaran, Moga, Barnala, Sangrur, Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib, Mohali, Ropar, Nawanshehar, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Amritsar and Pathankot) for the assessment of uranium content. These samples were collected and analysed under a collaborative project with GNDU. The uranium content in these samples varied from 0.1-153 ppb (microgram per litre). (c)&(d) BARC has not carried out such study related to high prevalence of cancer in the region. Linking of increase of cancer to the level of uranium or other heavy metals in ground water requires epidemiological studies. Such epidemiological studies can be undertaken by the population based cancer registry at Patiala under the national cancer registration programme. If needed, help of Epidemiology Division of Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), Mumbai could be sought. Several studies focusing on health effects have been carried out in Finland among people who use their drilled wells as sources of drinking water, which is having uranium concentrations much higher than that observed in Malwa region. These include case-cohort studies of uranium intake and risks of leukemia, stomach, and urinary tract cancers as well as chemical toxicity studies of uranium intake and renal and bone effects. Nevertheless, none of the human studies reported so far has shown a clear association between chronic uranium exposure and cancer risk, clinical symptoms, or toxicity. (e) Studies are carried out to ascertain the effect of uranium in ground water on agricultural crops and consequent health effect. COMMISSIONING OF KUDANKULAM NUCLEAR PLANT

22nd March, 2012 RSQ 935 SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN SHRI D. RAJA

(a) whether it is a fact that the Kudankulam nuclear plant in Tamil Nadu could not be commissioned as scheduled in December 2011 due to agitation by the local people on safety grounds;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the measures being taken to allay their apprehension fully before it is commissioned?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY): (a) Yes, Sir. (b) Following the protests at the site, requisite number of employees of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) & its contractors have not been able to enter the project site. Work has been halted since October 2011. (c) The Government set up an expert group comprising 15 members having expertise in diverse fields relevant to nuclear and radiation safety, seismology, health, ecology, oceanography, fisheries etc. to interact with the spokespersons of the people of the region to address all their legitimate concerns. The group has met the state government officials and local spokespersons nominated by the government of Tamilnadu and conclusively addressed all the legitimate and genuine apprehensions of the people. DAE/NPCIL has also embarked upon a focused outreach programme in areas around Kudankulam nuclear power project using a multi-pronged approach to allay the apprehensions of the people protesting against the startup of the project. The efforts in this regard are continuing and will be further enhanced. RESEARCH PROJECT IN GUJARAT 22nd March, 2012 RSQ 936 SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA SHRI BHARATSINH PRABHATSINH PARMAR

(a) the research projects implemented or in process by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) within last three years in Gujarat State;

(b) the amount of funds that has been allocated in this regard; and (c) whether BARC extends research collaborative in field of Agriculture with Navsari Agriculture University

for joint research for mangoes by using atomic methods? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) Research & Developmental activities pertaining to the activities of Department of Atomic Energy(DAE) are being pursued in various universities / academic institutions in different states of the country by sponsoring R&D projects through the Board of Research in Nuclear Science (BRNS). As a part of this programme since 2005, 37 R&D projects were sponsored in the Gujarat State. Out of these, 17 projects were sponsored during the last three years. Besides R&D projects, BRNS also provides grant for conducting national / international seminars conferences across the country. In Gujarat state, in the last three years, about 14 conferences were provided grant by BRNS; In addition to above, studies on radiation based induced mutagenesis for crop improvements along with conventional breeding have been underway at BARC, Mumbai since several decades. Using both mutation and recombination breeding in groundnut, BARC has developed 14 groundnut varieties and are released and notified for commercial cultivation across the country. As a part of this, five varieties namely TAG 24, Somnath, TG 26, TG 37A and TPG 41 were released for Gujarat through active collaboration with Directorate of Groundnut Research (DGR), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Junagadh and Junagadh Agricultural University, Jungadh.

Besides, recently released varieties like TG 38, TLG 45 and TG 51 (released elsewhere) are also popular among Gujarat farmers. These activities were continued in Gujarat State during the past three years. New groundnut breeding lines of BARC having disease resistance are evaluated by Agricultural Research Station, Talod, Gujarat. Recently, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari has undertaken evaluation of advanced breeding lines of groundnut at four regional research stations. BARC is actively collaborating with Agricultural Universities at Junagadh and Anand for some of these activities. (b) For the BRNS sponsored R&D projects in Gujarat State, an amount of Rs.89.30 lakh was allocated during 2009, 2010 & 2011 and Rs.12.65 lakh towards conducting national / international conferences during 2010, 2011 & 2012. (c) BARC would extend research collaboration in the field of agriculture with Navsari Agriculture University, if a specific proposal which is scientifically worth pursuing, is received. PROTEST AGAINST KUDANKULAM NUCLEAR PLANT 22nd March, 2012 RSQ 937 SHRI GOVINDRAO ADIK SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

(a) whether it is a fact that the Prime Minister''s charge that civil society groups were misusing funds from America and other western countries to stoke protests at the Kudankulam nuclear plant;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Russian stand has been vindicated; and (d) by when, the plant would become operational?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)to(c) There are reports about some organizations diverting funds for purposes other than the permitted use of foreign funds. These matters are being investigated. (d) The government is making all efforts to normalize the situation to enable early restart of the work on the project. The date of plant becoming operational can be assessed after normalization of the situation. FORTY YEARS CAP ON THE LIFE OF NUCLEAR REACTORS 29th March, 2012 RSQ *232 SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL

(a) whether Government is planning to implement any additional safety measures to bolster nuclear safety regulations in our country in the wake of last year''s Fukushima disaster in Japan;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government is aware that Japan is planning to put a forty years'' cap on the operational life of

their nuclear reactors; (d) if so, whether Government of India is also planning to put such a cap on the operational life of Indian

reactors; (e) if so, the details thereof; and (f) if not, the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) (a)&(b) Yes Sir. After the Fukushima (Japan) accident, Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) reviewed the safety status of Indian Nuclear Power Plants vis-a-vis the Fukushima accident. A high level Committee was constituted to review the safety of Indian Nuclear Power Plants against external events of natural origin. The

Committee was chaired by a former Chairman of AERB and it had experts from Department of Atomic Energy as well as other national agencies dealing with the areas of seismicity/earthquake, tsunami, cyclones, river flooding etc. The high level Committee of AERB reviewed safety aspects considering its broad terms of reference as follows : i. Capacity of Indian Nuclear Power Plants to withstand earthquakes and other external events such as tsunamis, cyclones, floods, etc. ii. Adequacy of provisions available to ensure safety in case of such events, both within and beyond design basis. The high level Committee of AERB submitted its report in August 2011. The report is available on AERB website. Committee observed that the existing designs, regulations and practices followed in India for Nuclear Power Plants have inherent strengths to deal with external natural events and their consequential events safely. To further strengthen the safety, the AERB Committee made certain recommendations. All recommendations of the AERB Committee have been accepted by AERB. Necessary steps have already been taken by AERB to ensure implementation of the recommendations appropriately in a time bound manner, at all the nuclear plants. Besides this, to make AERB an independent body, Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority (NSRA) Bill, 2011 has been introduced in the Parliament on 7 September 2011. Further, to bolster the nuclear safety regulation, the Central Government has taken a decision to invite IAEA Missions namely, Operational Safety Review Team (OSART) and Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) for peer review of safety of nuclear power plants, and of the regulatory system, respectively. (c) There is no formal communication from Japan with respect to forty years'' cap on the operational life of their nuclear reactors. (d)to(f) With respect to Indian nuclear power plants, there are no regulatory requirements of having a cap of forty years on the operational life of nuclear power INSPECTION OF KNPP BY AEA 29th March, 2012 RSQ 1706 SHRI A. ELAVARASAN

(a) whether International Atomic Energy Agency panel has completed its inspection at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KNPP) in Tamil Nadu as it is part of our International obligation to show that the nuclear materials in the plant complex is used only for peaceful purpose that is power generation;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the KNPP had submitted its data and reports on the hot run to the Atomic Energy Regulatory

Board (AERB) which would have to take a final call; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) Yes, Sir. (b) The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) officials have carried out the inspection, of Kudankulam nuclear power plant in February, 2012, as per laid down procedures and in accordance with international agreements on safeguards. The inspections were related to the reactor building, fuel storage facilities, inventory of nuclear materials and the memory cards of the surveillance cameras. (c) Yes, Sir. (d) The detailed reports of the ‘hot run’ have been submitted to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) for its review and stage-wise clearances for further activities broadly comprising fuel loading, criticality procedures (first start of the reactor) and power operation at various levels.

ENERGY GENERATING CAPACITY OF KALPAKKAM 29th March, 2012 RSQ 1707 SMT KANIMOZHI

(a) the total energy generation capacity of the existing reactor at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu; (b) whether an additional reactor is being constructed at Kalpakkam and details thereof; and (c) the capacity of this reactor and when it would be commissioned?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) At present, a total capacity of 440 MW comprising of two nuclear power reactors of 220 MW each (Madras Atomic Power Station 1&2) is in operation at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu. (b)&(c) One nuclear power reactor of 500 MW, the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) is at advanced stage of construction at Kalpakkam. This will be the first commercial fast reactor of the country. It is a first of its kind reactor involving complex technologies. The commissioning of the reactor is expected to be completed in 2014-15. COMMISSIONED NUCLEAR REACTORS 29th March, 2012 RSQ 1708 SMT KANIMOZHI

(a) the number of nuclear reactors currently commissioned in India, State-wise; (b) the years in which different reactors were commissioned and the individual energy generation capacity

thereof; and (c) whether the total energy production through nuclear reactors is less than 10 per cent of energy generated

using fossil fuels and the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) There are twenty nuclear power reactors presently in the country of which nineteen are in operation. One reactors, Rajasthan Atomic Power Station-1 (100 MW) is under extended shutdown to meet regulatory requirements. The details are as in the annexure: (c) Yes Sir, The generation from nuclear power plants during the period April 2011 to February 2012 was about 4.6% of the generation from thermal power plants on fossil fuel. This is on account of lower capacity base of nuclear power. The current installed nuclear power capacity in the country is about 3.8% of the installed thermal power capacity.

Annexure to reply for RS USQ 1708 answered on 29.03.2012 Unit Reactor Type Capacity (MW) Date of Commercial Operation Tarapur, Maharahtra

1 TAPS-1 BWR 160 28 Oct. 1969 2 TAPS-2 BWR 160 28 Oct. 1969 3 TAPS-3 PHWR 540 18 Aug. 2006 4 TAPS-4 PHWR 540 12 Sept. 2005

Rawatbhatta, Rajasthan 1 RAPS-1 * PHWR 100 16 Dec. 1973 2 RAPS-2 PHWR 200 01 Apr. 1981 3 RAPS-3 PHWR 220 01 June 2000 4 RAPS-4 PHWR 220 23 Dec. 2000

5 RAPS-5 PHWR 220 04 Feb. 2010 6 RAPS-6 PHWR 220 31 Mar. 2010

Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu 1 MAPS-1 PHWR 220 27 Jan. 1984 2 MAPS-2 PHWR 220 21 Mar. 1986

Narora, Uttar Pradesh 1 NAPS-1 PHWR 220 01 Jan. 1991 2 NAPS-2 PHWR 220 01 July 1992

Kakrapar, Gujarat 1 KAPS-1 PHWR 220 08 May 1993 2 KAPS-2 PHWR 220 01 Sept. 1995

Kaiga, Karnataka 1 KAIGA-1 PHWR 220 16 Nov. 2000 2 KAIGA-2 PHWR 220 16 Mar. 2000 3 KAIGA-3 PHWR 220 06 May 2007 4 KAIGA-4 PHWR 220 20 Jan 2011

BWR- Boiling Water Reactor, PHWR- Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor * Under extended shutdown. DEVELOPMENT OF ATOMIC ENERGY SECTOR RSQ *314 SHRI SHIVANAND TIWARI

(a) whether it is a fact that most of developed countries of the world are not giving priority to the development of Atomic Energy Sector for power generation to meet their power requirements;

(b) if so, the Government''s reaction in this regard and the percentage of power generation by atomic energy out of total power production of the developed countries like America, Britain, Germany, Japan and developing country like China;

(c) whether it is also a fact that power generation capacity of atomic energy sector in India has become double during last five years; and

(d) if so, the facts in this regard? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) (a) The deployment of various sources for power generation is country specific and is based on demand and availability of energy resources. Currently, 436 nuclear power reactors are in operation in 31 countries and 61 reactors are under construction in 14 countries globally. Nuclear power contributed about 13.5% of total electricity generation in the world in the year 2011. Most of the developed countries continue to pursue nuclear power programmes to meet their electricity requirements. In developed countries, there are 16 reactors under construction ten in Russia, three in South Korea and one each in France, Finland and USA. (b) India’s electricity demand is huge and growing. All energy sources including nuclear power are being deployed optimally to meet the country’s growing demand. Nuclear power is a clean energy option and has vast potential to provide long term energy security. It would therefore be an important component of the country’s energy mix. The share of nuclear power in the total electricity generation in some of the developed countries and China in 2011 is as follows:

Country Nuclear share in total electricity generation USA 19.2 UK 17.8 Germany 17.8 Japan 18.1 France 77.7 Russian Federation 17.6 China 1.8

(c)&(d) The nuclear power capacity was 3900 MW at the end of X Plan. The current nuclear power capacity is 4780 MW. During the XI Plan, 880 MW was added, resulting in increase in capacity by 23%. The nuclear power capacity is expected to reach 10,080 MW on progressive completion of projects under construction by 2017. CASES OF CANCER DUE TO RADIATION 26th April, 2012 RSQ 2327 SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

(a) whether it is a fact that a number of cases of cancer have been found due to radiation from the Nuclear plant of Kalpakkam;

(b) If so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that a report has been submitted declaring that cancer rate in nearby villages was

seven times higher than the distant villages; and (d) if so, the reaction of Government thereto?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) No, Sir. None of the cancer cases is attributed to radiation. (b) Does not arise. (c) A provisional report of a survey conducted by ‘A Society for Primary Health Care Intervention, Research and Education’ (ASPIRE) in 22 villages around Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu (within 8 km radius) covering a total of 22,345 individuals by health screening questionnaire and clinical examination has indicated the prevalence of cancer in this villages to be 0.21 %. The report also indicated that in three villages 54 kms away from Kalpakkam, the prevalence of cancer is 0.03% based on health screening data obtained from 6,932 individuals only through questionnaire. The annual cancer incidence in the country varies from 0.04 % to 0.25 % and for Chennai it is about 0.12%. The prevalence of cancer is usually 3 to 5 times the annual incidence of cancer. There is no scientific evidence to infer incidence of cancer around Kalpakkam on account of radiation from nuclear plant at Kalpakkam. (d) Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) in Mumbai is setting up community based cancer registry and conducting health surveys to document the true occurrence of cancer, birth defects and other illness around various nuclear plants in India. This will result in continuous monitoring and creation of a large database that will help in detecting any changes in the occurrence of cancer and other illness around Indian nuclear plants. Environmental Survey Laboratory at Kalpakkam is continuously carrying out environmental monitoring for radiation in and around Kalpakkam (10 Km from Madras Atomic Power Station) and radiation levels are found to be similar to that of natural radiation background. APPLICATIONS OF NUCLEAR ENERGY 26th April, 2012 RSQ 2328 SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL

(a) the areas of application of nuclear energy in the country apart from generating electricity and defence purposes; and

(b) the methods and procedure for the safe disposal of the nuclear waste, generated at various reactors and research labs?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) Radiation and radioisotope technologies have been successfully and extensively deployed as non-power applications for societal benefits in Agriculture, Healthcare and Industry. These applications have made

considerable impact in terms of availability of improved varieties of crop plants, especially, oil seeds and pulses, microbiological safety of food and enhancement of shelf-life of certain vegetables and fruit, their export, diagnosis of and treatment of several health conditions, particularly, cancer and industrial radiography. The nuclear energy has also been used for desalination of sea water. (b) Nuclear waste, in the form of gaseous, liquid and solid, is generated during operation & maintenance activities of various reactors and research laboratories. The methods and procedures for safe disposal of nuclear waste are summarized below: 1) Gaseous waste is treated at the source of generation. The techniques used are adsorption on activated charcoal and filtration by high efficiency particulate air filter. The treated gases having insignificant amount of radioactivity are then diluted with exhaust air and discharged through tall stack with continuous monitoring. 2) Liquid waste streams are treated by various techniques, such as filtration, adsorption, chemical treatment, thermal and solar evaporation, ion exchange, reverse osmosis etc. The concentrate from treatment of liquid waste is immobilized in inert materials like cement, polymer etc. The treated waste having insignificant amount of radioactivity is discharged to large water bodies well within the norms specified by regulators. 3) The radioactive solid waste generated during operation and maintenance of nuclear power plants is segregated and volume reduced using various technologies like compaction and incineration. The solid/solidified waste is packaged in suitable containers to facilitate handling, transport and disposal. Disposal of waste is carried out in specially constructed structures such as stone lined trenches, reinforced concrete trenches and tile holes. These disposal structures are located both above and underground in access-controlled areas. Disposal system is designed based on multi barrier principle for ensuring effective containment of the radioactivity. The areas where the disposal structures are located are kept under constant surveillance with the help of bore-wells laid out in a planned manner. The underground soil and water samples from these bore wells are routinely monitored to confirm effective confinement of radioactivity in the disposed waste containment. USE OF ATOMIC ENERGY IN AGRICULTURE SECTOR 26th April, 2012 RSQ 2330 SMT NAZNIN FARUQUE

(a) whether Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC) has received any representation to work in Assam by using atomic energy in agriculture seed and agriculture sector;

(b) if so, the details of the time period when this work would be completed; and (c) the details of the research work being done in this direction in Assam?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) No, Sir. Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has not received any representation to work in Assam for using atomic energy in agriculture seed and agriculture sector. However, BARC will be willing to offer its help to Assam in these areas. (c) BARC has not initiated any research work in Assam, in this regard. NUCLEAR POWER PLANT AT MITHIVIRDI 26th April, 2012 RSQ 2331 SHRI BHARATSINH PRABHATSINH PARMAR SHRI PURUSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA

(a) whether India has decided to commission a new Uranium mine at Mouldih in Jharkhand and a processing plant that would provide fuel to its nuclear power plants;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Mouldih mine is expected to deliver Uranium ore upto 500 tonne per day which would be

processed and sent to nuclear power plants; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) Yes Sir, Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL), a Public Sector Undertaking under the administrative control of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), has commissioned a new Uranium Mine at Mohuldih in Jharkhand on 17.04.2012. (b) The ore from this mine will be processed in the existing process plant of UCIL at Turamdih. (c) Yes Sir. It has been planned to produce 500 tonne of uranium ore per day from Mohuldih Mine.. (d) The processed MDU (magnesium diuranate) will be transported to Nuclear Fuel Complex (NFC) at Hyderabad for its conversion into nuclear fuel to be used in nuclear reactors. CRITERIA FOR SELECTING ATOMIC ENERGY PLANTS 3rd May, 2012 RSQ 2946 SHRI V.P.SINGH BADNORE

(a) the criteria for selection of new atomic energy plants; (b) the number of sites that have been selected and the location thereof; and (c) the progress of establishing a Nuclear Power Plant in those sites which are selected?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) The criteria for selection of a site for setting up of Atomic Power Plants are laid down in the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board’s (AERB) Code of Practice on Safety in Nuclear Power Plant Siting. These inter-alia include seismicity, location of faults, geology, foundation conditions, meteorology, potential of flooding (from tsunami, storm surge, etc. at coastal sites and from rain, upstream dam break etc. at inland sites), proximity to airports, military installations, facilities for storing explosives and toxic substances, etc. In addition availability of land, water, demand of electricity in the region and availability of other energy option also form the basis for evaluation of potential sites. (b) Presently, nuclear power plants are in operation/under construction at seven sites in the country. The Central Government has accorded ‘in principle’ approval for 8 new sites and additional units at some of the existing sites for locating future nuclear power plants. The details are given in the annexure. (c) Following the in-principle approval of the site by the Central Government, pre-project activities, which broadly include acquisition of land, obtaining statutory clearances from the Ministry of Environment & Forests and the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board, carrying out various investigations/studies and finalization of the detailed project proposals are taken up. The detailed project proposal is considered by the Central Government for according administrative and financial sanction, after which work on the project is commenced. Currently, pre-project activities are at various stages at sites where in-principle approval has been accorded. Start of work on new projects at the sites is proposed in the XII Five Year Plan, except at Haripur and Bhimpur sites, where the pre-project activities are planned to be completed in the XII Five Year Plan. PMOS VIEW OF NGOS 3rd May, 2012 RSQ 2947 SHRI SALIM ANSARI

(a) whether Prime Minister''s Office have charged that there are NGOs that are not appreciative of India''s

development requirement; (b) whether it is also a fact that the charge is related to on-going protest and controversy over commissioning

of Kudankulam Atomic Power Station in Tamil Nadu; and (c) if so, the details in this regard?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) There were reports in the press to the effect. (b)&(c) Preliminary reports have been received regarding foreign funding of the NGOs protesting against the nuclear power project at Kudankulam. CBI enquiry has been initiated against two NGOs and criminal cases have been referred in respect of two NGOs to Tamil Nadu Police. POWER GENERATION FROM NUCLEAR PLANTS 3rd May, 2012 RSQ 2948 SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL

(a) the estimated power generation from new nuclear plants in the coming twenty years; (b) the number of plants that were expected to commence as per this estimate; (c) whether the plan to establish nuclear plants is proceeding as per estimates; and (d) if not, the alternatives drawn for power generation?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) The Integrated Energy Policy of the country has projected a possibility of reaching a nuclear power generation of 63,000 MW by 2032 by progressive addition of nuclear power capacity through a mix of Light Water Reactors (LWRs) each of 1000 MW and higher capacity based on international technical cooperation, indigenous 700 MW Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) & Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs). (b) The XI Five Year Plan envisaged start of work on eight PHWRs and ten LWRs based on international technical cooperation, of which work on four PHWRs at the existing sites – Kakrapar Atomic Power Plant (KAPP 3 & 4 - 2x 700 MW) at Kakrapar in Gujarat and Rajasthan Atomic Power Plant (RAPP 7 & 8 - 2x 700 MW) at Rawatbhata in Rajasthan has commenced. Work on other four PHWRs proposed to be located at new greenfield sites could not start due to delay in acquisition of land. The delay in fruition of international cooperation resulted in postponement of launch of LWRs. (c) Despite initial delays in launch of new nuclear power projects in the XI Five Year Plan period, the plan to establish nuclear plants to meet the target of 63,000 MW nuclear power capacity by 2032 is on course. (d) Does not arise. SRI LANKAN CONCERN OVER KUDANKULAM PLANT 3rd May, 2012 RSQ 2950 SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN SHRI D. RAJA

(a) whether it is a fact that the Sri Lanka has expressed its concern over the impact of disaster in the Kudankulam nuclear power plant which could affect the island nation; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and Government''s reaction thereto?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) There have been reports in the press & media that Sri Lanka has expressed concern over the impact of a disaster in Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, Tamil Nadu. (b) The nuclear power reactors at Kudankulam are generation III+ reactors with advanced safety features employing four safety trains against one required. The reactors have a unique Passive Heat Removal System (PHRS), which would ensure cooling of the reactor core by natural air circulation even in the worst case scenario of total loss of power supply and cooling water sources as it happened in Fukushima (Japan). Post Fukushima, safety reviews of the Kudankulam reactors have found that they are totally safe and have margins and features in design to withstand extreme natural events like earthquakes and tsunamis. NUCLEAR REACTORS AT JAITAPUR 10th May, 2012 RSQ *484 SHRI P. RAJEEVE

(a) whether it is a fact that the nuclear reactors planned to be set up at Jaitapur are based on Evolutionary Pressurised Water Reactors (EPRs) technology provided by French firm Areva; and

(b) the estimated cost of per Mega Watt of electricity produced using Areva reactors vis-a-vis the cost of electricity using Indian Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) (a) Yes, Sir. (b) The detailed project proposals including costs and business models envisaging the share of work between the Indian side and French side to arrive at an optimal cost are under finalization. The business models are planned to be devised so as to maximize the indigenous content, scope of work and responsibilities to reduce the costs. The tariff of electricity from the EPRs planned at Jaitapur is expected to be comparable to those of contemporary Indian Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors. DETAILS OF THORIUM RESERVES 10TH May, 2012 RSQ 3721 SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR

(a) the details of the thorium reserves in the country, State-wise; (b) the steps being taken by Government for extraction of thorium from these sites; and (c) whether Government proposes to produce thorium based atomic energy?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) The Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), a constituent Unit of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has established the presence of 10.70 million tonnes of Monazite in the country, which contains 9,63,000 tonnes of Thorium Oxide (ThO2). Indian Monazite contains about 9-10% of ThO2 and about 8,46,477 tonnes of Thorium Metal can be obtained from 9,63,000 tonnes of ThO2 which will be used for future programmes of DAE. The state-wise thorium reserves in the country are as given below:

STATE MONAZITE (Million Tonnes) KERALA* 1.51 TAMIL NADU 2.16 ANDHRA PRADESH 3.74

ODISHA 1.85 WEST BENGAL 1.22 BIHAR 0.22 TOTAL 1070

(*including resources of lake and sea bed) (b) The commercial exploitation of thorium deposits is being carried out by the Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL), a Public Sector Undertaking of the DAE. Since the year 1952, the IREL has been processing monazite and sufficient quantity of thorium has been stockpiled for future use. Extraction of thorium is a continuous process. (c) India is pursuing a three stage nuclear power generation programme aimed at long term energy independence based on use of our abundant Thorium resources. The programme is to use Thorium for electricity generation in the long-term. In order to realize this goal, we are well into the first stage based on natural uranium fuel, both from domestic and imported sources. This will be followed by second stage comprising of fast reactors. It is proposed to set up a large power generation capacity based on fast reactors before getting into the third stage. Thorium in itself cannot produce electricity and it has to be first converted to Uranium-233 in a nuclear reactor. A comprehensive three-stage nuclear power programme is therefore being implemented sequentially. SHORTAGE OF FUEL FOR NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS 10th May, 2012 RSQ 3722 SHRI N. BALAGANGA

(a) whether there has been any shortage of fuel for nuclear power plants that is affecting the atomic power programme in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether there has been any import of uranium during the last two years; (d) if so, the details thereof, year-wise and country-wise; (e) whether Government proposes to make our country self-reliant with respect to atomic fuel; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Out of 20 nuclear reactors with an installed capacity of 4780 MW, presently one reactor (Rajasthan Atomic Power Station-1 of capacity 100 MW) is under extended shut down. Remaining 19 reactors are currently in operation. Ten reactors with a capacity of 2840 MW comprising Kaiga Generation Station 1 to 4 (4x220 MW), Narora Atomic Power Station 1&2 (2x220 MW), Madras Atomic Power Station 1&2 (2x220MW) and Tarapur Atomic Power Station 3&4 (2x 540 MW) are fuelled by indigenous uranium, which is not available in the required quantity. These are accordingly being operated at lower power levels matching the fuel supply. The remaining 9 reactors which are under International Atomic energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards use imported fuel and are operating at rated capacity. (c) Yes, Sir. (d) In the last two years, the uranium has been imported from Russian Federation and Kazakhstan. The details are given below:

Firm / Country Year (Qty. in MT) 2010-11 2011-12 Russian Federation 210 296 Kazakhstan 600 350

(e) Yes, Sir. (f) The strategy is to augment the supply of domestic uranium by opening of new mines and processing facilities and augmenting the capacity of existing mines and mills.

GLOBAL CENTRE FOR NUCLEAR ENERGY PARTNERSHIP 10th May, 2012 RSQ 3724 SHRI NAND KUMAR SAI

(a) whether Government proposes to set up a global centre for nuclear energy partnership in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof along with the details of the status thereof; (c) whether Government also proposes to set up energy parks in the country; (d) if so, the details thereof and the status of each of such parks as on date; (e) the details of the targets fixed by Government for generation of nuclear energy during the Eleventh Five

Year Plan period and the extent to which the same has been achieved so far; and (f) the steps taken by Government to expedite the completion of work at global centre and energy parks?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Yes, Sir. In September 2010, Central Government approved the establishment of Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP) at village Jasaur Kheri & Kheri Jasaur, Near Bahadurgarh, District Jhajjar, Haryana. Two plots of land measuring 130 acres for the Institute at village Kheri Jasaur and 105 acres for the Township at village Jasaur Kheri have been acquired at a cost of `78 Crore. The proposed centre (GCNEP) will provide facilities related to advanced education, research and training in the field of proliferation resistant nuclear system designing, nuclear security, radiological safety, nuclear material characterisation and applications of radiation technologies and radioisotopes. (c)&(d) Yes, Sir. The Central Government has accorded in principle approval of coastal sites at Chhaya Mithi Virdi in Gujarat, Kovvada in Andhra Pradesh, Haripur in West Bengal, Jaitapur in Maharashtra and Kudankulam in Tamilnadu for setting up of nuclear power parks of 6000 to 10000 MW comprising large capacity Light Water Reactors (LWRs) based on foreign technical co-operation. Currently pre-project activities are in progress at these sites. The work at these sites is planned to be taken up in phases at each site starting with twin reactors in first phase followed by launch of next pair in second phase and third phase respectively, with a gap of about four years between the two phases.

Annexure to RS USQ 3724 for 17.05.2012 The details of the sites for nuclear power parks and their current status are as given in annexure :

# The first pair KK 1&2 (2X1000 MW) at advanced stage of commissioning *Nominal Capacity (e) The nuclear power generation target for the XI Five Year Plan was 163,395 million units which was revised to 124,608 million units at Mid Term Appraisal stage. The actual generation during the XI Plan was 109,642 million units.

Site State Capacity (MW) Present Status Kudankulam Tamilnadu 4 X 1000 # Land available, Environmental

Clearance from MoEF obtained, proposal for financial sanction of KK 3&4 under consideration of Government.

Jaitapur Maharashtra 6 X 1650 Land title transferred to NPCIL, Environmental and CRZ clearances from MoEF obtained, discussions with M/s. Areva on project proposal for JNPP 1&2 in progress.

Kovvada Andhra Pradesh 6 X 1000 * Land acquisition proceedings in progress, ToRs for EIA studies approved by MoEF, EIA studies in progress.

Chhaya Mithi Virdi Gujarat 6 X 1000 *

Haripur West Bengal 6 X 1000 Pre-project activities are initiated.

(f) To expedite the completion of work of GCNEP, Government has sanctioned `147 Crore in September 2010. Land acquisition for the project has been completed and approval for award of contract for Architectural Consultancy to prepare the Master Plan has been accorded. As regards energy parks, the Central Government has accorded in principle approval for setting up of nuclear energy parks based on large capacity Light Water Reactors (LWRs) at Kudankulam, Haripur, Jaitapur, Kovvada and Chhaya Mithi Virdi. Pre-project activities are in progress at these sites. The work at these sites is planned to be taken up in phases at each site starting with twin reactors in first phase followed by launch of next pair in second phase and third phase respectively, with a gap of about four years between the two phases. In the XII Five Year Plan, work is planned to be started on construction of one set of twin units at Kudankulam (KK 3&4), Jaitapur (JNPP 1&2), Kovvada (Kovvada 1&2) and Chhaya Mithi Virdi (Mithi Virdi 1&2). Pre-project activities are planned at Haripur. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR NUCLEAR PLANTS 10th May, 2012 RSQ 3725 SHRI NAND KUMAR SAI

(a) whether Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) had submitted any proposal for obtaining environmental clearance of Atomic Power Projects in the country;

(b) if so, the details in this regard; (c) the details of the status of such projects, project-wise; and (d) the time by which environmental clearance of each of such projects would be finalised?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)to(c) Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has taken up the process of obtaining environmental clearance for its proposed projects at Gorakhpur, Haryana; Chutka, Madhya Pradesh; Kovvada, Andhra Pradesh and Chhaya Mithivirdi in Gujarat. The Terms of Reference (ToR) for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies have been approved by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). The EIA studies in accordance with the approved ToR by specialized agencies are in progress. (d) The Environmental clearance process involves approval of ToR, EIA studies and submission of EIA report, public hearing, submission of final EIA report and final review by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) of the MoEF before grant of environment clearance. The process ordinarily takes about two years. SECURITY OF KUDANKULAM NUCLEAR PLANT 17th May, 2012 RSQ *587 SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI

(a) whether the pacts for Kudankulam units No. III and IV are almost ready; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Russia has assured security for all the units in Kudankulam; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) (a)to(d) An Inter Governmental Agreement (IGA) was signed on December 5, 2008 between India and Russian Federation to extend the cooperation in peaceful use of nuclear energy, including the construction of additional nuclear power plant units at Kudankulam site. The IGA provides interalia for supply of fuel throughout the operational period of power units of the nuclear power plants at the Kudankulam site. The text of the Protocol for extending Russian State credit for implementation of KKNPP-Units 3&4 has been approved by the Central

Government. The proposal for financial sanction of Kudankulam Units-3&4 is under consideration of the Central Government. JAITAPUR NUCLEAR POWER PROJECT 17th May, 2012 RSQ 4496 SHRI ISHWARLAL SHANKARLAL JAIN

(a) whether Government has moved ahead with the nuclear power project at Jaitapur in Maharashtra; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government is running or proposing to start nuclear power projects in other States as well besides

Maharashtra; and (d) if so, the place where the first project in phase one is being started?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) It is proposed to set up six nuclear power reactors, each of 1650 MW in phases of twin units at Jaitapur in Maharashtra. The reactors are planned to be set up in technical cooperation with AREVA, France. The work on the first phase of two units is planned to be started in the XII Five Year Plan. (c) In addition to Maharashtra, nuclear power plants are in operation in Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu & Uttar Pradesh and under construction in Gujarat, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. The Central Government has accorded ‘in principle’ approval for sites in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. (d) The first new project in the XII Five Year Plan is planned to be started at Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu (KKNPP 3&4). ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS ON JAITAPUR NUCLEAR PLANT 17th May, 2012 RSQ 4497 SHRI HUSSAIN DALWAI

(a) whether the environmental concerns expressed against Jaitapur nuclear power project are misconceived; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether certain international groups are misguiding the locals regarding the plant; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) Yes, Sir. (b) Apprehensions about environmental degradation and loss of bio-diversity on setting up of the project have been expressed by groups ideologically opposed to nuclear power. Nuclear power is a clean source of energy as it does not emit greenhouse gases. The nuclear power plants do not adversely impact the environment. The exclusion zones of nuclear power plants have flourishing flora and fauna, including some critically endangered species thriving there. A detailed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study has been carried out and the environmental clearance for the project has been accorded by Ministry of Environment and Forests following the due process. (c)&(d) There have been reports to the effect in sections of the media. ATOMIC ENERGY PLANTS IN RAJASTHAN 17th May, 2012

RSQ 4498 SHRI ASHK ALI TAK

(a) the number of atomic power stations proposed to be built in Rajasthan along with their locations; (b) whether the proposal to increase the capacity of atomic power station at Rawatbhata in Kota is under

consideration of Government; and (c) if so, the details of progress made in this regard so far?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY): (a)&(b) There are six nuclear power reactors in operation with an aggregate capacity of 1180 MW at Rawatbhata in Rajasthan. In addition, two reactors , Rajasthan Atomic Power Plant Unit 7&8 (RAPP 7&8 – 2 x 700 MW) are under construction. With the proposed completion of these reactors by the year 2017, the capacity in operation at Rawatbhata will reach to 2480 MW. In addition, the Central Government has accorded ‘in principle’ approval of an additional site in July 2011 at Mahi Banswara in Rajasthan for locating four nuclear power reactors each of 700 MW. Currently, this site is under initial pre-project activities. (c) RAPP 7&8 project has achieved a cumulative physical progress of 13.8% as of April 2012. NUCLEAR STATION IN COUNTRY 17th May, 2012 RSQ 4499 SHRI FAGGAN SINGH KULASTE

(a) the number of nuclear stations constructed in the country so far and the number of nuclear stations proposed to be constructed in the country now;

(b) the details thereof, State-wise; (c) whether Government''s approval has been received to start the proposed projects; and (d) if so, names of States and the places which have been selected?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Twenty nuclear power reactors have been constructed so far in the country and nineteen are in operation. One reactor at Rajasthan Atomic Power Station-1 (100 MW) is under long term shutdown. In addition, there are seven nuclear power reactors under construction. In the XII Five Year Plan, start of work on 19 new nuclear power reactors is proposed. Pre-project activities have also been planned at two green field sites during the XII Five Year Plan. The state-wise details in respect of nuclear power plants in operation, construction and proposed are given in the annexure:-

Annexure to RS USQ 4499 for 17.05.2012

State

Site

Capacity (MW) In operation Under construction XII Plan new starts

proposed

Maharashtra Tarapur (2X160)+ (2X540) Jaitapur 2X 1650

Rajasthan

Rawatbhata 100+200+(4X220) 2X 700 Mahi,Banswara* 2X 700

Tami Nadu

Kalpakkam 2X220 1X500 2X500 Kudankulam 2X1000 2X1000

Uttar Pradesh Narora 2X220 Gujarat

Kakrapar 2X220 2X 700 ChhayaMithi Virdi *

2X1100 *

Karnataka Kaiga 4X220 2X700 Haryana Gorakhpur * 2X700

Madhya Pradesh Chutka * 2X 700

Bhimpur * Pre-project activities Andhra Pradesh Kovvada * 2X 1500 * West Bengal Haripur * Pre-project activities

(*New Sites) In addition, work on an Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (300 MW) is proposed to be started in the XII Five Year Plan, for which the site is yet to be decided. (c)&(d) The Central Government has accorded ‘in principle’ approval of the sites for the projects proposed to be set up in the XII Five Year Plan period. The proposals for financial sanction of the proposed new projects are at various stages of preparation/approval. ELECTRICITY GENERATING NUCLEAR PLANTS 17th May, 2012 RSQ 4500 SHRI PRAKASH KESHAV JAVADKAR

(a) the status of various nuclear power projects generating electricity and others which are being installed; (b) the cost of production per unit (kwh) of each unit; and (c) the details thereof, project-wise?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) There are 20 nuclear power reactors with an installed capacity of 4780 MW in the country. Of these one reactor Rajasthan Atomic Power Station (RAPS1 - 100MW) is under long term shutdown and 19 nuclear power reactors with a capacity of 4680 MW are presently generating electricity. There are 7 reactors with a capacity of 5300 MW under construction. With the progressive completion of these reactors the nuclear power capacity will reach 10,080 MW by the year 2017. (b)&(c) The notified tariffs (per kWh) of the units currently in operation are as under:-

Stations Tariff in Paise/kWh Tarapur Atomic Power Station 1&2 94 Tarapur Atomic Power Station 3&4 280 Rajasthan Atomic Power Station 2,3 & 4 274 Rajasthan Atomic Power Station 5&6 341 Madras Atomic Power Station 1&2 200 Narora Atomic Power Station 1&2 239 Kakrapar Atomic Power Station 1&2 228 Kaiga Generating Station 298

SAFETY CLEARANCE FOR THE JAITAPUR NUCLEAR PLANT 9th August, 2012 RSQ *28 SHRI P. RAJEEVE (a) whether the Ministry has given all safety clearances for the Jaitapur Nuclear Plant; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Jaitapur area is located in high earthquake sensitive zone; and (d) whether the AREVA developed reactors have used the operating system joined with safety system?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) (a)&(b) The safety clearances for nuclear power projects are accorded by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) and not by the Central Ministries. These are accorded stage-wise, viz. siting, construction, equipment erection, commissioning, fuel loading, criticality and power operation. Presently, site evaluation report in respect of the proposed Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant has been submitted to AERB for the siting clearance. (c) No, Sir. (d) In respect of the reactors proposed to be set up at Jaitapur site, the issue of interlinking of safety systems and control systems has been addressed through redesign of the architecture of the instrumentation and control systems. COMMERCIAL PRODUCTION BY KUDANKULAM NUCLEAR PROJECTS 9th August, 2012 RSQ 158 DR. K.P.RAMALINGAM Will the Minister of ATOMIC ENERGY be pleased to state: (a) whether Nuclear Power Corporation expects the Kudankulam nuclear project''s first unit to commence commercial production by August, 2012 and the second of the two 1,000 MWe units by March, 2013; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the final inspection of the equipment at the first unit is also nearly through and the process of obtaining clearance from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board of India for fuel loading is underway; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) whether any defect has been noticed during the final inspection of the equipment at the first unit; and (f) if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) (a)&(b) The first and second units of Kudankulam project are scheduled to reach criticality (first start of fission chain reaction) in August 2012 and March 2013 and commence commercial operation by October 2012 and June 2013 respectively. (c)&(d) Yes, Sir. The inspection of the Reactor Pressure Vessel using a specially designed remote controlled machine has been completed. (e)No, sir. (f)Does not arise. INSTALLATION OF AMERICAN NUCLEAR REACTOR IN INDIA 9th August, 2012 RSQ 160 SHRI A. ELAVARASAN (a) whether India and the US are on the track to cross a significant milestone by firming up on early works agreement for the installation of the first 1100 mw American nuclear reactor in India under the India-US nuclear deal; (b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Department of Atomic Energy had sought a specific safety approval from the US nuclear regulator on the AP-1000 series after the Fukshima incident; and (d) if so, whether the assurance has been conveyed lending confidence for the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) to proceed with negotiation? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) A Memorandum of Understanding and a confidentiality agreement between Westinghouse Electric Company (WEC), USA and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) was initially signed in 2009. An amendment to extend the term of the earlier signed MoU till May, 2014 was signed on June 12, 2012. The amendment also includes a clause to sign an Early Works Agreement. (c)&(d) The review of safety provisions in design of AP-1000 systems to withstand extreme natural events like earthquakes and Tsunamis, post Fukushima incident, has been carried out in the vendor country. Westinghouse Electric Company has made a presentation on the same to the Indian side. The Design Certification of the AP-1000 reactor was issued by United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (USNRC) in December 2011, after the Fukushima accident. AWARENESS ABOUT DISPENSING THE WASTE PRODUCTS OF ATOMIC POWER STATIONS 16th August, 2012 RSQ 624 SHRI VASANTHI STANLEY Will the Minister of ATOMIC ENERGY be pleased to state: (a) the steps taken to isolate and dispose the waste products of atomic power station at Kudankulam; and (b) considering the heavy radiation and risk involved in the piling up of waste products whether the Ministry will come forward to conduct more awareness programme for the public through NGOs and other peoples representatives? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)At Kudankulam Atomic Power Station, as at any other nuclear power plant site, no high level wastes is likely to be generated. The radioactive wastes will essentially be low level wastes with a small quantity of intermediate level waste. Such solid wastes will be reduced in volume by compaction / incineration, etc., conditioned and fixed in cement matrix. The liquid wastes will be treated, concentrated and immobilised by fixing in cement / polymer to make a stable matrix. The exhaust air from the reactor building will be treated through a series of off-gas clean up systems for removal of any radioactivity, and discharged through a tall stack. Disposal of the wastes immobilised in stable matrices like cement / polymer has been designed to be thorough specially designed Near Surface Disposal Facility at the site with constant monitoring of the radioactive level. (b)The wastes are immobilised in stable cement / polymer matrices and the facility is constantly monitored. Further these practices are consistent with those followed in all nuclear facilities in the world, and fulfill the stipulated regulatory requirements. There is no risk of spread of radioactivity from the immobilised waste stored at the site. In fact, the radioactivity level of the waste reduces with time, to normal levels by the end of the plant life. Hence, the perception of heavy radiation and risk involved in piling up of such waste products is unfounded. In-so-far-as the apprehensions of the public about nuclear power plants are concerned, the Expert Group of eminent persons constituted by the Central Government has already addressed all the relevant issues pertaining to Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant. Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) have also got a dedicated wing to make public outreach efforts to allay such misplaced apprehensions.

RADIATION LEVELS IN SURROUNDING AREAS OF NUCLEAR PLANTS 23rd August, 2012 RSQ 1244 SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI (a) whether it is a fact that the radiation levels in the areas surrounding the nuclear plants in the country were minuscule, compared to the upper limits prescribed by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that there will be no compromise on the safety of atomic plants and it will be harmful to close the additional source of energy; and (d) if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) Yes, Sir. (b) The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has stipulated an additional dose upto 1000 micro-Sievert per year for public over natural background radiation in the vicinity of nuclear power plant. The actual dose established, based on monitoring of environmental matrices like air, water, soil, vegetation, crops, fish, meat etc. over several decades is in the range of 1 to 25 micro-Sievert per year. Independent Environmental Survey Laboratories (ESL), under the administrative control of Bhabha Atomic Research centre (BARC) are set up at each site. The ESL monitors environmental matrices all around upto 30 km of the site for radioactivity, even prior to setting up and also after the operation of the nuclear power reactors. Reports of such monitoring are submitted to AERB. The data obtained from ESL, over several decades, has shown that there is no significant increase in radioactivity and radiation level over the background levels prevalent before the operation of the reactors. (c) Yes, Sir. (d) Safety is accorded utmost priority in all phases of nuclear plant, encompassing siting, design, construction, commissioning and operation. There is a robust regulatory mechanism in place. India’s energy resources are limited and the energy demand is huge and rapidly growing. Given India’s energy resource profile, the integrated energy policy envisages optimal deployment of all energy sources including nuclear power. LEAKAGE AT RAWATBHATA ATOMIC POWER STATION 23rd August, 2012 RSQ 1245 SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI (a) whether it is a fact that yet another leak has been reported within a month at the Rajasthan Atomic Power Station (RAPS) at Rawatbhata near Kota; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that the Rawatbhata site is getting ready for India''s second biggest Nuclear Fuel Complex with a capacity of 500 tonnes a year; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) whether it is also a fact that the affected workers were taken off duty immediately and put under care; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b)There were two instances of tritium uptake (exposure) of workers at Rajasthan Atomic Power Station at Rawatbhata during maintenance works. While the first instance occurred in Unit-5 on June 23, 2012, the second instance took place in Unit-4 on July 19, 2012. Both the instances were localised to small areas and there was absolutely no release of radioactivity/radiation to the environment or public domain. The first instance in Unit-5 occurred due to inadvertent rise in tritium levels in a localised area of the containment building due to the opening of the moderator cover gas line where the welding jobs were performed. In the second instance, a localised leak of tritiated heavy water from the moderator pump seal led to tritium uptake by workers working in the area. (c) Yes, Sir. (d) A new facility is being set up by Nuclear Fuel Complex at Kota, Rajasthan to manufacture fuel assemblies required for 4 Units of 700 MWe PHWRs, two each at Kakrapar (Gujarat) and Kota (Rajasthan). (e)&(f) No, Sir. In the first instance only one contract worker received a dose of 20.4 milliSievert per year, as against the stipulated AERB annual dose limit of 15 milliSievert per year for contract workers. However, at this level of radiation dose, there are no adverse effects on the health and the worker is attending his duties, albeit in other areas of the plant. The radiation exposure of the regular workers in the second instance was found to range from 2.97 to 7.96 milliSievert per year which is well below the stipulated Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) annual dose limit of 20 milliSievert per year for regular workers. The workers are continuing to perform their normal duties in RAPS-4. REPOSITORY FOR STORING NUCLEAR WASTE 23rd August, 2012 RSQ 1248 DR. K.P.RAMALINGAM (a) whether it is a fact that India will build a repository about one Kilometer below the land surface for storing nuclear waste and is setting up a laboratory to develop the required technology; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is a fact that the proposed laboratory will be of a generic nature; and (d) if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Yes, Sir. The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has a plan to build a repository in the depth range of 500-1000m for disposal of vitrified high level waste in future. The need of such repository would arise only after 40-50 years. This is because the inventory of radioactive waste generated is small for the current nuclear power program of the country for which the present interim storage facilities are felt adequate. A proposal to construct an Underground Research Laboratory (URL) is included in the current Five Year Plan to develop the required indigenous technology needed for building the repository. (c)&(d) Yes, Sir. The proposed laboratory is of generic nature. The laboratory would comprise of experimental tunnels, rooms/chambers at depth and would be exclusively used for non-radioactive experiments and applications that would form a scientific basis for the construction of a deep underground repository in future. Such laboratories are also used for development of methodology and technology related to emplacement of solidified waste in the repository.

INSTALLATION OF MOBILE RADIATION DETECTION SYSTEM 23rd August, 2012 RSQ 1250 DR. V. MAITREYAN (a) whether Government has installed or proposes to install mobile radiation detection system and special radiation detection vehicles in various cities of the country; and (b) if so, the details thereof and the aims and objectives of the same? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) The Central Government has decided to install mobile radiation detection systems in Police vehicles of selected police stations of major cities (more than 800 police stations in the country) with the technical support from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). The Radiation Detection Systems installed in a mobile platform will have the capability to search and detect gamma emitting radionuclides. The mobile radiation detection vehicles are intended to help the police forces to detect any inadvertent presence of radioactivity in public domain. This system will also act as a deterrent for unauthorised usage of radioactive materials. URANIUM IN GROUNDWATER 30th August, 2012 RSQ *280 SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH

(a) whether uranium has been found in groundwater of some States;

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise;

(c) whether uranium contamination in groundwater of some States is more than 12 times of the permissible limits of WHO;

(d) if so, the details thereof;

(e) the details of the people who have died due to uranium in groundwater, so far, State-wise;

(f) whether uranium treatment facility from water has been installed by Government in affected areas;

(g) if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and

(h) if not , the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) (a) Yes, Sir. Due to its natural occurrence, uranium is present in all environmental matrices such as water, soil, sediment, food materials and biota. On a global basis, its concentration in soil varies from 1-5 parts per million (ppm) while in water it varies from 1-3 parts per billion (ppb). The uranium content in water, which is in contact with granite rocks, is relatively high. (b) Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has carried out study for uranium content in groundwater and analysed the uranium content of 1109 number of water samples collected from four districts of Punjab (Bhatinda, Mansa, Faridkot and Ferozpur) in collaboration with Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar. The results of the study reveal that about 42% of total samples have Uranium concentration above the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) permissible (radiological) limit (60 ppb) for drinking water.

Hydrogeochemical survey is one of the tools for survey and exploration for concealed uranium deposits, wherein uranium content in ground water is assessed. Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration & Research (AMD) being an exploration agency for identifying natural resources of uranium, frequently utilise this technique. In general, U content recorded by AMD in ground water samples from different parts of India, where AMD is engaged in survey and exploration, are in the range of <1–100 ppb, with occasional values upto 5840 ppb. Such anomalously high values are recorded generally in granitic terrains. It may be clarified that the areas surveyed by AMD are in remote parts of India, where human population is minimal. Uranium content recorded in ground water in areas where AMD has carried out such studies in the recent past is as listed below: Sl.No. Location State U (ppb) 1 Didwana and SinghiTalab, Nagaur District Rajasthan 17-1755 2 Bap-Malar playa, Bikaner, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer Districts Rajasthan 8-25 3 Popawas-Ghatiyala-Keru Sector, Jodhpur and Pali districts Rajasthan <1 - 170 4 Hurra Ki Dhani, Sikar Rajasthan <1 - 44 5 Daurala, Sikar Rajasthan 556-5100 6 Mahendragarh district Haryana 2-2936 7 Una district Himachal Pradesh 2-80 8 Phalodi-Lohawat, Jodhpur district Rajasthan 4-29 9 Jabera-Selwara-Katangi, Damoh and Jabalpur districts Madhya Pradesh <1 - 330 10 Piparia-Kalan, Seoni district Madhya Pradesh <1 - 4500 11 Pongar, Seoni district Madhya Pradesh <1-4285 12 MedhaDhana, Betul district Madhya Pradesh <1-5198 13 Thumpani, Bastar district Chhattisgarh <1-57 14 Sukma, Dantewada district Chhattisgarh <1-820 15 Vishnupali, Raigarh district Chhattisgarh <1-400 16 Sajjaldine-Siregepalle, Kadappa district Andhra Pradesh 1-195 17 Chenchalapalle-Mulapalle, Kadappa district Andhra Pradesh 2-5840 18 Chandragiri-Tirupati-Nayudupet area, Chittoor and Nellore districts Andhra Pradesh <1-984 19 Sedam, Gulbarga disirict Karnataka 18-271 20 Kallur, Gulbarga disirict Karnataka <1-25 21 Kurgunta, Gulbarga disirict Karnataka 112-474 22 Karankot, Gulbarga disirict Karnataka 27-508 23 Kanasgeri-Malamatti-Vantamuri-Mallapur, Beglaum district Karnataka <2-14 24 Raigarh and Mahasamund districts Chhattisgarh <1-164 25 Kattukottai-Gangavalli-Uppiliapuram, Salem and Tiruchirapalli district Tamil Nadu <1-12 26 Kenda-Jitujori-Amghata-Puncha-Hura area, Purulia district West Bengal <1-210 In addition, AMD has carried out preliminary hydrogeochemical studies on 165 number of random water samples collected from areas around Bhatinda, Mansa, Faridkot and Firozpur districts of Punjab, which indicated <1 to 270 ppb U, with 14 samples having U values higher than 60 ppb. BARC has also carried out a study in collaboration with Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar for establishment of uranium content in groundwater in Malwa region of Punjab state. The maximum concentration of uranium in ground water in the Malwa region was found to be 684 ppb. (c) Yes, Sir. (d) Answer to part (b) of the question may be referred to. (e) From the few known studies in Canada and Finland there is no evidence of correlation between cancer and uranium in drinking water. (f)&(g) Water purification systems based on Reverse Osmosis (RO) technique have been installed in many districts of Punjab by the State Government. (h) Does not arise in view of answer to (f)&(g) above

FACILITIES FOR MEDICAL EMERGENCIES NEAR NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS 30th August, 2012 RSQ 2017 DR. V. MAITREYAN (a) whether there is adequate preparedness for medical emergencies in the vicinity of the nuclear power plants in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the details of hospitals with haematology laboratories, bone-marrow bank, immunology laboratories etc. near nuclear plants; and (d) the steps taken/being taken by Government to provide these facilities in the vicinity of all nuclear power plants in the country? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Yes, Sir. Medical services to cater to general health and occupational health related injuries are available at all nuclear power plants. In addition, there are district hospitals/public health centers and private medical services available in the vicinity of nuclear power plant sites. The medical and para-medical professionals of these hospitals are trained and retrained periodically in attending to medical emergencies. (c) In addition to the medical services available at the nuclear power plants, empanelment with super-speciality hospitals in the nearby towns/villages are also in place. Hematology laboratories are available at most of the Government/private hospitals, primary health centres and nursing homes, while Immunology laboratories, bone marrow banks and other specialised services are available at the super-speciality hospitals. (d) Health care has been one of the focus areas of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) Corporate Social Responsibility programme. Free medical services are being extended to the people living in the vicinity of nuclear power plants through mobile clinics and health centres. The scope of health care facilities to surrounding population around nuclear power plants is being further enhanced. ATOMIC ENERGY PLANTS UNDER TWELFTH PLAN 30th August, 2012 RSQ 2021 SHRI DHARMENDRA PRADHAN

(a) whether there is any plan to set up 16 atomic energy plants in the country by Indian Atomic Energy Commission during the Twelfth Five Year Plan;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the power likely to be generated by these atomic energy plants to be established under the Twelfth Plan; (d) whether any steps have been taken by Government to provide heavy and light water and other resources

required for atomic energy plants; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY): (a) During the XII Five Year Plan, it is proposed to start work on nineteen new nuclear power plants. Sixteen of these will be implemented by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), two by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI) and one by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).

(b)&(c) The details are as under:- Location & State Project Capacity (MW) To be implemented by Gorakhpur, Haryana Gorakhpur Units 1&2 2X 700 NPCIL Chutka, Madhya Pradesh Chutka Units 1&2 2X 700 Mahi Banswara, Rajasthan Mahi Banswara Units 1&2 2X 700 Kaiga, Karnataka Kaiga Units 5&6 2X 700 Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu Kudankulam Units 3&4 2X1000 Jaitapur, Maharashtra Jaitapur Units 1&2 2X1650 Kovvada, Andhra Pradesh Kovvada Units 1&2 2X1500 Chhaya Mithi Virdi, Gujarat Chhaya Mithi Virdi Units 1&2 2X1100 Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) Units 1&2 2X 500 BHAVINI Location to be decided Advanced Heavy Water Reactor(AHWR) 300 BARC (d) Yes, Sir.(e) The inputs for the nuclear power programme like Heavy Water, Fuel, Zirconium components etc. have been tied up with the various units of the Department of Atomic Energy.***** RADIATION EXPOSER IN RAWAT BHATA ATOMIC POWER STATION 30th August, 2012 RSQ 2022 SHRI DHARMENDRA PRADHAN

(a) whether it is a fact that a case of adverse effect of radio active substance, tritium on some employees of the Rawatbhata Atomic Power Station situated in Rajasthan has come to notice;


(c) whether Government has got any enquiry conducted in this case;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) whether any action plan has been prepared by Government to check such incidents?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) There were two instances of tritium uptake(exposure) to workers at Rajasthan Atomic Power Station during maintenance works on June 23,2012 and July 19, 2012. Tritium is a soft beta emitter (of very low energy and can be stopped by a thin paper) and once it enters the body, it comes out of the body through urination and sweating. The resultant dose to the workers as a result of the tritium uptake was well within the annual limits stipulated by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), except in case of one contract worker. He received a dose of 20.4 milliSievert per year, as against the stipulated AERB annual dose limit of 15 milliSievert per year for contract workers. The limit for regular worker is 20 milliSievert per year. At this level of radiation dose, as found by scientific studies, there are no adverse effects on the human health. The workers are attending to their normal duties, albeit in other areas of the plant. (c)&(d) The incident has been investigated by the Exposure Investigation Committee of the Station and also by the AERB. It was found that the adherence to Personal Protective Equipment needed to be strengthened. (e) Yes, Sir. Adherence to Personal Protection Equipment and periodic training for radiation workers have been reinforced to prevent recurrence of such incidents. CONVERSION OF SEA WATER INTO PORTABLE WATER 6th September, 2012

RSQ *376 DR. V. MAITREYAN (a) whether the sea water could be converted into potable water by means of atomic energy; (b) if so, whether Government has set up/proposes to set up any such project; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) the per litre cost of conversion of sea water into potable water by atomic energy; and (e) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by Government for large scale conversion of sea water into potable water? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) (a)to(c) Yes Sir. An eighteen lakh (18 lakh) litres per day capacity desalination plant operating on the Reverse Osmosis (RO) process has been setup, as part of Nuclear Desalination Demonstration Project (NDDP) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu. Another plant, a Multi-Stage Flash (MSF) Desalination Plant with a capacity of forty five lakh (45 lakh) litres per day has also been setup at Kalpakkam as a part of NDDP. It is located adjacent to Madras Atomic Power Station (MAPS) and uses low pressure steam as energy input for MSF desalination plant. The hybrid MSF-RO plant is operated to produce distilled water for high end industrial applications and potable water for drinking and other applications. (d) The per litre cost of conversion of seawater into potable water by atomic energy varies between 5 & 10 paise depending on site conditions, end product quality and the technology in use. (e) The technology for setting up desalination plants is available with the Government in the Department of Atomic Energy for large scale conversion of sea water into potable water. ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS AT MINING AREA OF INDIAN RARE EARTH LTD. 6th September, 2012 RSQ 2793 DR. V. MAITREYAN Will the Minister of ATOMIC ENERGY be pleased to state: (a) whether it has come to the notice of Government regarding environmental problems at mining area of Indian Rare Earth Limited; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has received any complaint regarding sanctioning of appropriate amount of compensation for land owners whose land were acquired by the company; and (d) if so, the action taken by Government in this regard? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)No, Sir. (b)Does not arise. (c)&(d) One representation was received in August 2010 regarding compensation for land acquired by Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL). The same was examined and a detailed reply was furnished to petitioner in November 2010. TARGET OF POWER GENERATION FROM ATOMIC ENERGY

6th September, 2012 RSQ 2794 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA (a) the target of Eleventh Plan for atomic energy; (b) whether it has been achieved; (c) the target of power generation from atomic energy in Twelfth Plan; and (d) whether it is a fact that the target of atomic energy could not be achieved because of the delay in Kudankulam Nuclear Project of Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) The XI Five Year Plan target for electricity generation from nuclear power was 163,395 Million Units (MUs), which was revised to 124,608 MUs at the Mid Term Appraisal stage. The achievement during the period was 109,642 MUs. The generation target set for the XII Five Year Plan is 241,748 MUs. (c) Delay in completion of Kudankulam project and inadequacy of fuel were the main reasons for non-accomplishment of XI Five Year Plan target of electricity generation from nuclear power. CIVIL LIABILITY UNDER NUCLEAR DAMAGES ACT, 2010 22nd November, 2012 RSQ 2 SHRI P. RAJEEVE

(a) whether the 3rd and 4th units of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant will be covered under the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Act, 2010;

(b) if so, the details of the decision taken in this regard;

(c) whether any specific liability mechanism is framed by the Ministry for the damages of 1st and 2nd units;

and

(d) if so, the details therefor? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) to (d) The matter is under consideration of the Government. NUCLEAR REGULATORY PROCESS 22nd November, 2012 RSQ 3 SHRI NAND KUMAR SAI

(a) whether nuclear regulatory process in the country has come under severe criticism from the Government auditor and activities in the recent past;


(c) whether Government proposes to approach the global atomic watchdog IAEA to review its nuclear

regulatory process;

(d) if so, the details in this regard;

(e) the details of the status of commissioning of first 1000 MW unit of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project; and

(f) the details of the expenditure so far incurred in the said unit?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) The Comptroller and Auditor General of India issued its report on the performance audit of the activities of Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), wherein some observations and recommendations have been made. The report of CAG tabled in the Parliament has not made any allegation of impropriety on AERB; in fact it notes compliance with the procedures in respect of regulation of nuclear power plants and nuclear fuel cycle facilities. It has made recommendations for strengthening of regulatory control of radiation facilities. Currently, PAC is seized of the report and the point-wise response against each recommendation in CAG report has been submitted to PAC. (c)&(d) Yes Sir. AERB has committed to get its regulatory process peer reviewed by the Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) mission of IAEA. As a first step, AERB decided to assess the readiness of AERB for IRRS mission by undergoing the detailed internal review of all the requirements of IRRS. In this regard, a committee was constituted in AERB with several working groups to meticulously review the existing system vis-à-vis the IAEA regulatory safety standards. (e) Currently, fuel loading is completed in KKNPP-1 and preparation to first approach of criticality has reached its advanced stage. This reactor would attain criticality (start of the fission reaction for the first time) after AERB grants stage wise clearances by December 2012. (f) Total expenditure incurred for KKNPP 1 & 2 upto October 2012 is ` 15,161 crore. SAFETY OF NUCLEAR POWER PLANT 22nd November, 2012 RSQ 4 SHRI A. ELAVARASAN (a) whether the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) had reviewed the safety of all nuclear power plants in the country after the disaster at the nuclear plant in Fukushima, Japan and recommended various factors to be considered before loading fuel into the Kudankulam plant; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the AERB has faced criticism for agreeing to load the fuel without heeding the recommendations; and (d) if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Yes Sir. The safety of Indian NPPs against external events was reviewed by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). AERB has also reviewed the plant specific assessments for establishing capabilities and margins for coping with severe natural events, such as earthquakes and floods and their possible effects, which inter alia include extended Station Black Out and non-availability of normal cooling water sources. AERB carried out special inspections of all the NPPs to assess the existing provisions and the preparedness of these plants to deal with such events. Accordingly, in the case of Kudankulam 1 & 2 plants, seventeen recommendations were made for implementation in different time frames. The implementation of these recommendations was not a precondition for initial fuel loading.

(c)&(d) Following its established process of regulatory review, AERB had granted clearance for initial fuel loading to unit-1 of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) on August 10, 2012. This clearance was challenged in the Writ Petition 22253/2012 filed in the Hon’ble Madras High Court. The contention of the petitioner was that unless all the 17 post Fukushima safety enhancements recommended by Atomic Energy Regulatory Board for KKNPP are implemented, AERB should not have granted the clearance for initial fuel loading. In its counter affidavit, AERB submitted that the detailed safety review carried out for KKNPP indicated that KKNPP already has adequate safety measures and additional safety enhancements were recommended by way of abundant caution, and were agreed for implementation in a phased time-bound manner. Thus, the review and resolution of safety issues were completed before granting clearance for initial fuel loading. The Hon’ble Madras High Court has dismissed the writ petition. The judgment of the Hon’ble Madras High Court has been challenged in a Special Leave Petition (SLP No.27335/2012) filed in the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. The matter is subjudice. DELAY IN NUCLEAR SAFETY POLICY 22nd November, 2012 RSQ 5 DR. PRADEEP KUMAR BALMUCHU (a) whether it is a fact that Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has been pointed out by Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), the inordinate delay in preparing the nuclear safety policy; (b) if so, the details thereof, and the reasons for such delay; (c) whether it is also a fact that the AERB was given directions long before twice vide two panels in the year 1987 and 1997 for preparation of suitable policy expeditiously; (d) the reasons for the delay; and (e) the steps being taken by the Government for its early preparation? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY): (a) Yes, Sir. (b) Comptroller and Auditor General of India published its report on the performance audit of the activities of Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), wherein an observation has been made on the delay in preparation of the safety policy. In accordance with the Presidential orders dated 15 November 1983, constituting the AERB, the functions of AERB includes, as per clause 2(i), development of safety policies in both radiation and industrial safety areas, and further, as per clause 2(vi), evolving major safety policies based on safety criteria, recommended by IAEA and other international bodies, adopted to suit Indian conditions. Accordingly, the safety policies concerning the activities regulated by AERB are enshrined in the high level documents of AERB, namely the Atomic Energy (Radiation Protection) Rules, 2004, the mission statement and the various ‘Codes’ of AERB. These documents include the policies, principles and/or safety objectives that apply to the relevant activity/field and the specific regulatory requirements that are to be followed for fulfilling the same. The above principles and objectives form the broader policy of AERB for regulation of nuclear and radiation safety in the country. AERB has so far not felt the need for a single and separate ‘Safety Policy’ document, as these are well defined in the existing documents as explained above. Nevertheless AERB has agreed to the suggestion of CAG, to the extent of consolidating the existing policy objectives and higher level principles as brought out in various codes and other document into a separate ‘Safety Policy’ document. (c) No, Sir. (d) Does not arise in view of (c) above

(e) Indicated in (b) above. NEW NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS IN THE COUNTRY 22nd August, 2012 RSQ 6 SHRI PALVAI GOVARDHAN REDDY

(a) whether it is a fact that the Ministry proposed to start work on 19 new nuclear power plants in the country;

(b) if so, details of the new nuclear plant;

(c) whether any resistance from the local people faced by the Ministry;

(d) if so, details of sites where Ministry received resistance and how is it planning to address the same;

(e) whether NPCIL has finalized raw-material and inputs for these plants; and

(f) if so, the details thereon? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Yes, Sir. The XII Plan proposals envisage start of work on 19 new nuclear power reactors in the XII Plan. The details are as given in the annexure:

(c) There has been opposition by a section of people at some of the sites, mainly on issues of compensation, Resettlement & Rehabilitation (R&R) and apprehensions about safety of nuclear power plants. (d) There have been sporadic instances of resistance by some sections of people at most of the new sites. Issues related to compensation and R&R are addressed and coordinated with the respective State governments. Upfront neighbourhood development activities have also been taken up at new sites. The apprehensions about safety of the plant, loss of livelihood etc. are addressed through a massive public outreach programme using multipronged approach.

(e)&(f) The fuel linkages for the proposed plants have been finalised. Fuel for reactors placed under IAEA safeguards is imported and reactors not under IAEA safeguards are fuelled by indigenous uranium. SAFETY STANDARDS IN PROPOSED NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS 22nd November, 2012 RSQ 8 SHRI PARIMAL NATHWANI (a) how many new nuclear power stations are under construction/or under planning in the country other than Kudankulam, the details thereof; (b) how do we compare safety standards of our installations with those of International nuclear power plants, the details thereof; and (c) how far these plants take into consideration the local environmental issues? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) There are five nuclear power reactors under construction apart from Kudankulam Units 1&2. the details are as given in the annexure:

Project Location & State Capacity (MW)

Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu 500 Kakrapar Atomic Power Plant Units 3&4 Kakrapar, Gujarat 2X 700 Rajasthan Atomic Power Plant Units 7&8

Rawatbhata, Rajasthan 2X 700

The XII Five Year Plan proposals envisage start of work on 19 nuclear power reactors with a capacity of 17400 MW. The details are as given in the annexure:

Project Location Reactor Type Capacity (MW) Indigenous Reactors Gorakhpur, Units 1&2

Gorakhpur, Haryana PHWR 2X700

Chutka , Units 1&2 Chutka, Madhya Pradesh PHWR 2X700 Kaiga , Units 5&6 Kaiga, Karnataka PHWR 2X700 Mahi Banswara, Units 1&2

Mahi Banswara, Rajasthan PHWR 2X700

Fast Breeder Reactor Units 1&2

Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu FBR 2X500

Advanced Heavy Water Reactor

Site to be decided AHWR 300

LWRS with International cooperation Kudankulam Units 3&4

Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu LWR 2X1000

Jaitapur Units 1&2 Jaitapur, Maharashtra LWR 2X1650 Chhaya Mithi Virdi Units 1&2

Chhaya Mithi Virdi, Gujarat LWR 2X1100

Kovvadda Units 1&2 Kovvada, Andhra Pradesh LWR 2X1500

(b) The Safety standards of our reactors are comparable to the best in the world and in line with the International Atomic Energy Agency standards. (c) The nuclear power plants are set up only after obtaining environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), the process for which involves comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment Studies in line with the Terms of Reference finalised by the Expert Appraisal Committee of the MoEF. SAFE DISPOSAL OF VITRIFIED HIGH LEVEL RADIO ACTIVE WASTE 22nd November, 2012 RSQ 9 SHRI C.M. RAMESH

(a) whether Government has conceived any safe disposal of vitrified high level radio-active waste in the country; and

(b) if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Yes, sir. Under the existing practice, a three step approach is followed in our country consistent with the practice followed world over for management of high level radioactive liquid waste. These are: Waste is first vitrified and converted into an inert solid matrix in the form of sodium borosilicate glass. The vitrified waste is taken in a stainless steel canister which in turn, is placed in a stainless steel over-pack. The over-pack is again encased in another stainless steel casing and stored in an engineered facility. As a second step, such solidified waste package is stored under surveillance in a natural circulation driven air-cooled engineered facility for a period of about 50 years. The final step, comprises sending this cooled vitrified waste package to a deep geological repository at a depth of about 600-800 meters to isolate the radioactivity from the environment. ATOMIC POWER GENERATION AGREEMENT FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW ATOMIC POWER PLANTS 22nd November, 2012 RSQ 10 SHRI MOHAN SINGH (a) the number of countries which have expressed their interest to install atomic power plants in the country after signing the atomic power generation agreement with America; (b) whether Government plans to establish atomic power plants in the other States of the country apart from Tamil Nadu, if so, the name of such States along with the date by when generation of power would start; and (c) whether Australia has also promised to provide Uranium to India, if not, the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) Following the conclusion of International Agreement on Civil Nuclear Cooperation in four countries namely USA, France, Russian Federation and South Korea have expressed interest to install nuclear power reactors in the country. (b) Yes, Sir. The XII Five Year Plan proposals envisage start of work on new nuclear power plants in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan apart from Tamil Nadu. These nuclear power plants are expected to start generation of electricity in the XIII Five Year Plan/ early XIV Five Year Plan. (c) No formal communication has been received in this regard. SAFETY NORMS IN EXISTING NUCLEAR POWER PLANT 22nd November, 2012 RSQ 11 SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL (a) the number and details of unexpected incidents with Nuclear Power Plants in the country that could have led to dangers but managed by rescue management team; and (b) whether all the safety norms are met by Kudankulam Plant? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) There has been no incident in the Indian nuclear power plants in the country having potential dangerous consequences requiring invoking of either site or off-site emergency measures including activation of a rescue teams in public domain. (b) Yes Sir. DAMAGE OF PIPELINE OF HAZIRA PROJECT BY EXPANSION OF NH 6 22nd November, 2012 RSQ 12 SHRI MANSUKH L. MANDAVIYA SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA

(a) whether Department is aware about the fact that their main water pipe line of Heavy Water Producing unit of Hazira came in alignment of expansion project of NH-6, due to which, this main water pipeline will be damaged and cannot be repaired;

(b) whether it is not relocated urgently it will be resulting in interrupt of supplying of water and this may lead to stop production by DAE resulting in unwanted National losses;

(c) whether DAE is taking up this important matter with Ministry of Road Transport & Highways urgently; and

(d) the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) & (b) Yes Sir. (c) Yes Sir.

(d) The matter has been taken up with Chairman, National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and also with Ministry of Surface Transport through M/s. Krishak Bharati Co-operative Ltd. (KRIBHCO) who is operating and maintaining the Heavy Water plant at KRIBHCO, Hazira. The NHAI and Ministry of Surface Transport have been requested to make necessary changes in widening of road NH-6, so that shifting of water supply line is avoided or minimized to avoid the water supply line coming under the National Highway. DAE has also requested NHAI to take required remedial actions so that the production of heavy water is not adversely affected. SAFETY AND CAPACITY OF NUCLEAR POWER PLANT 22nd November, 2012 RSQ 13 SHRI HUSAIN DALWAI

(a) the total installed nuclear power generating capacity at present;

(b) the number of new nuclear power reactors with capacity and location, under construction;

(c) whether the highest levels of nuclear safety has been ensured; and

(d) if so, details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) The current installed nuclear power capacity in the country is 4780 MW comprising twenty nuclear power reactors. (b) There are seven nuclear power reactors, with a capacity of 5300 MW, under construction. The details are as given in the annexure:-

Project Location & State Capacity (MW) Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project Units 1&2 Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu 2X 1000 Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu 500 Kakrapar Atomic Power Project Units 3&4 Kakrapar, Gujarat 2X700 Rajasthan Atomic Power Project Units 7&8 Rawatbhata, Rajasthan 2X700

(c)&(d) Yes, Sir. Safety is accorded utmost importance in all phases of nuclear power plants from siting, design, construction, commissioning, operation & maintenance and eventual decommissioning. The standards of safety followed in India are consistent with the best practices followed in the world. The nuclear power plant sites are evaluated in accordance with the criteria as laid down in the regulatory codes. The nuclear power plants are designed using defence-in-depth approach based on well defined principles of redundancy and diversity. The construction is carried out to meet the highest safety and quality standards. The operation of nuclear power plants is carried out in accordance with laid down procedures approved by the regulatory authority by trained personnel duly licensed by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). There is a robust regulatory mechanism in place for enforcement of safety in all activities right from initial siting to decommissioning of nuclear power plants. OPPOSITION ON COMMENCEMENT OF KUDANKULAM NUCLEAR PLANT 29th November, 2012 RSQ 622 SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL

(a) whether it is a fact that senior retired bureaucrats and other Government officials have written against the go-ahead of the Kudankulam nuclear plant;


(c) whether Government has conducted an assessment of the impact of the nuclear plant;


(e) if not, the reasons therefor? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Some senior retired bureaucrats and other government officials have written against going ahead with Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant as well as other new nuclear power projects. They have also raised issues related to nuclear power safety, independence of regulatory body, review of statutes like civil liability for nuclear damage act etc. (c)&(d) Yes, Sir. A rapid Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP Units 1&2) was carried out in 2001 and a more detailed EIA in 2003. Later, a comprehensive EIA of the site for six units was carried out as a part of KKNPP, Units 3 to 6 environmental clearance processes. (e) Does not arise. URANIUM RESOURCES ESTABLISHED IN ANDHRA PRADESH 29th November, 2012 RSQ 623 SHRI PALVAI GOVARDHAN REDDY

(a) whether it is a fact that the maximum tonnes of Uranium resources have been established in Andhra Pradesh;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the amount so far extracted and in the process of extraction; and

(c) what efforts Uranium Corporation of India is making to explore the Uranium resources?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) Yes Sir (b) Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), a constituent unit of Department of Atomic Energy, has so far identified 93,492 tonnes of in situ uranium oxide (U3O8) in different deposits like Lambapur, Peddagattu and Chitrial in Nalgonda District, Tummalapalle – Rachakuntapalle in Kadapa District and Koppunuru in Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh. This figure of uranium ore includes 59,006 tonnes of U3O8 identified during XI Five Year Plan period and 6616 tonnes of U3O8 identified during 2012-13The mining/processing of these minerals is continuous process which is done in phased manner. (c) Exploration for presence of Uranium ore in the entire country is done by AMD. Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL), a public sector undertaking under the Department of Atomic Energy, does not engage in exploration of Uranium. MANAGEMENT OF THE NUCLEAR WASTE 29th November, 2012 RSQ 624 SHRI C.P. NARAYANAN

(a) whether Government has any concrete plan to take out, transport or handle the nuclear waste/spent fuel after the Kudankulam plant in Tamil Nadu becomes operational; and (b) if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY): (a)&(b) Yes, Sir. Currently spent fuel from our operating unsafeguarded reactors are transported to our operating reprocessing facilities, located within the country. Consistent with this approach, spent fuel generated from the operation of the Kudankulam power plant after taking out from the reactor, is planned to be stored temporarily in storage pools which are water-filled concrete vaults with stainless steel lining, having the arrangement for storing spent fuel in racks. Such pools are designed, constructed and operated as per the guidelines prescribed by Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). Each unit of Kudankulam plant has a spent fuel storage capacity inside the reactor containment to cater to 7 years of full power operation. In case of a necessity arising at a later stage, additional storage, away from the reactor (AFR), could also be constructed for further enhancing the temporary storage capacity after taking due regulatory clearances. The spent fuel from Kudankulam Plant is to be transported from the power reactor site to the reprocessing facility for safeguarded fuels. This transportation will be in conformity with the regulation specified by AERB in “Safety code for the transport of radioactive materials –AERB/SC/TR-1” and international requirements as stipulated by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). As a policy, spent fuel from all nuclear power plants is to be reprocessed and the same is to be followed for the spent fuel of Kudankulam. The spent fuel from Kudankulam is planned to be reprocessed at a national facility, the location of which is to be finalised. CRITICISM OF AERB BY CAG ON RADIATION SAFETY POLICY 29th November, 2012 RSQ 628 SHRI A. ELAVARASAN (a) whether the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has criticised the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) for not being truly independent, not having a radiation safety policy and being lax in monitoring the proliferation of unregistered medical X-ray facilities in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the move follows criticism of the safety of nuclear plant both in India and abroad; (d) whether the CAG report could alert AERB and trigged some action; and (e) if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has issued its report on the performance audit of the activities of Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) wherein certain observations and recommendations pertaining to the independence of AERB, radiation safety policy and regulation of medical X-ray facilities have been made. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has conducted oral examination of officials of both AERB and DAE on 26.10.2012 and the point-wise response against each recommendation in CAG report has been submitted to PAC. (c) The performance audit of the activities of AERB by CAG started in June 2010, pre-dating the Fukushima accident in Japan in March 2011 that generated worldwide concerns about the safety of nuclear power plants. The report of the CAG notes compliance with the procedures in respect of regulation of nuclear power plants. (d)&(e) Government introduced the Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority Bill, 2011 in Lok Sabha on 7 September 2011 with a view to converting functional independence of AERB to de jure independence.

In accordance with the Presidential orders dated 15 November 1983, constituting the AERB, the functions of AERB includes, as per clause 2 (i), development of safety policies in both radiation and industrial safety areas, and further, as per clause 2(vi), evolving major safety policies based on safety criteria, recommended by IAEA and other international bodies, adopted to suit Indian conditions. Accordingly, the safety policies concerning the activities regulated by AERB are enshrined in the high level documents of AERB, namely the Atomic Energy (Radiation Protection) Rules, 2004, the mission statement and the various ‘Codes’ of AERB. These documents include the policies, principles and/or safety objectives that apply to the relevant activity/field and the specific regulatory requirements that are to be followed for fulfilling the same. The above principles and objectives form the broader policy of AERB for regulation of nuclear and radiation safety in the country. AERB has so far not felt the need for a single and separate ‘Safety Policy’ document, as these are well defined in the existing documents as explained above. Nevertheless AERB has agreed to the suggestion of CAG, to the extent of consolidating the existing policy objectives and higher level principles as brought out in various codes and other document into a separate ‘Safety Policy’ document. In order to enhance regulatory control over the large number of medical X-Ray units operating in the country, AERB has been pursuing the establishment of state-level Directorates of Radiation Safety with the State Governments. Additional initiatives taken by AERB recently include rationalisation and simplification of the existing regulations for users in diagnostic X-ray practice by way of amendments of AERB Safety Code; enhancing regulatory control on manufacturers/suppliers of X-ray equipment over the user; development of an easy and approachable interface for the user to facilitate easy registration using a new web based system; and, public awareness programmes. DECISION ON THE JAITAPUR ATOMIC POWER PLANT 6th December, 2012 RSQ *181 SHRI HUSAIN DALWAI (a) the details of decisions taken by Government on proposed Jaitapur Atomic Power Plant in Maharashtra; (b) whether any detailed programme has been chalked out for the re-settlement of people likely to be displaced by the Jaitapur Plant; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) (a) The Government has accorded “in principle” approval for locating six units of Light Water Reactors each of 1650 MW capacity at Jaitapur in technical cooperation with France. The start of work on the first set of twin units is envisaged in the XII Five Year Plan period. (b)&(c) There are no habitation at the site proposed for project. Accordingly, there is no displacement of people at Jaitapur site and hence there is no requirement of resettlement of any person. (d) Does not arise. EQUIPMENTS FOR MEASURING RADIATION EXPOSURE TO WORKERS 6th December, 2012 RSQ 1397

SHRI TAPAN KUMAR SEN (a) whether it is a fact that there are deficits/shortcomings in measuring radiation exposure to workers properly in Rawatbhata Nuclear Power Plant in Rajasthan with the existing equipments installed there; and (b) if so, the corrective action taken/ decided to be taken? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) No, Sir. (b) Does not arise. NUCLEAR ENERGY A DEPENDABLE SOURCE OF ELECTRICITY 6th December, 2012 RSQ 1399 SHRI C.P. NARAYANAN (a) whether Government considers atomic energy a dependable source of electricity, environmentally safe and commercially viable, in the background of scientific knowledge and practical experience available so far; (b) whether Government still consider the project proposed earlier by Homi Bhabha to utilize Thorium as fuel feasible and plan to develop reactors to make the idea commercially viable; (c) whether Government consider permitting foreign companies to establish nuclear reactors and Government paying full compensation in the event of an accident preferable to its own commercial nuclear plants; and (d) the share of nuclear energy in total energy requirement of India? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)Yes, Sir (b)Yes, Sir. (c)There is no proposal to permit foreign companies to set up nuclear power plants in the country. The nuclear power plants with foreign technical cooperation are planned to be set up and operated by Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) or its Joint Venture companies. The provisions of the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 are applicable to all reactors both indigenous and those set up with foreign technical cooperation. (d) The share of nuclear energy in the total electricity generation in the country in the year 2011-12 was 3.7%. According to the Integrated Energy Policy, the share of nuclear energy to meet the projected requirements of electricity in 2031-32, should rise to about 12%. INCIDENTS OF RADIOACTIVITY LEAKAGE 6th December, 2012 RSQ 1401

SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA (a) the names of nuclear power stations whose life span is going to expire;

(b) the steps taken to prevent the threats of radioactivity caused by these power stations; (c) the names of nuclear power stations where incidents of radioactivity leakage have occurred during the last three years and the current year; and (d) the action taken or proposed to be taken by Government in this regard? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) The life span of none of nuclear power stations in India is going to expire in the near future. (b) Nuclear Power Stations in India have sufficient safeguards by way of design features, operating practices and regulatory controls against any major radiological releases. However, for an unlikely event involving release of radioactive substances, emergency preparedness plans are available at all power stations. Stations conduct periodic exercises as per Emergency Preparedness Plans. (c) During the last three years and the current year, there have been no incidence of radioactivity leakage from any reactor and discharge of radioactivity has never exceeded the limits stipulated by Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). (d) Does not arise. IMPROVEMENT IN REACTOR DESIGN BY NPCIL 6th December, 2012 RSQ 1402 SMT JAYA BACHCHAN

(a) whether it is a fact that the reactor designs has been improved by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) in the country;

(b) whether it is also a fact that nuclear plants could be installed in cities;

(c) whether it is also a fact that in case of an accident there would be no long term impact on the humans near

the plant; and

(d) the details in this regard? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) Yes, Sir. (b) No, Sir. Nuclear power plants are located at sites which meet the criteria laid down in the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) Code on Safety in Siting of nuclear power plants. (c)&(d) All plants are designed for postulated design basis accidents, such that in case of such an accident no member of the public will get exposed to radiation dose beyond acceptable limits, thereby, ensuring that there would be no long term impact on the humans near the plant. Even for beyond design basis accidents, where the radiation exposure to some members of the public could be higher, the probability of suffering long term health effects caused by such radiation exposure is very low. PROPOSAL FOR ATOMIC POWER PLANT AT FATEHABAD 13th December, 2012 RSQ 2171

SHRI KANWAR DEEP SINGH

(a) whether the atomic power plant being set up in the Fatehabad district of Haryana has been cleared by the Ministry of Environment and Forests and the Atomic Energy Regulation Board;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) if not, the reasons therefor and the proposed plan of action, if any?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) to (c) The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report has been completed and public hearing held. The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) has asked for additional information from the project proponent. The application for siting consent for Gorakhpur site has been submitted to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). PERFORMANCE OF ATOMIC ENERGY REGULATORY BOARD AERB 13th December, 2012 RSQ 2172 SHRI JAGATPRAKASH NADDA

(a) whether it is a fact that the maximum amount of fines against offences/contraventions related to nuclear and radiation facilities are too low;

(b) if so, whether the Government has considered revising these fines;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether it is a fact that around 91 per cent of the medical X-ray facilities in the country are not registered

with AERB; and

(e) if so, under what regulatory body do the X-rays facilities are registered? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)to(c) As per Section 30(3) of the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 “Rules made under this Act may provide that a contravention of the rules shall, save as otherwise expressly provided in the Act, be punishable with fine, which may extend up to five hundred rupees”. However, as per Section 24 of the Act, contravention of any rules made under Section 17 (special provisions as to safety) shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years, or with fine, or both. Thus, Section 24 of the Act has expressly made provisions for just and reasonable punishment for serious violations while Section 30(3) provides for minor administrative lapses. In view of this the Government has not considered revising these fine. Depending on type of non-compliance, AERB is also empowered to revoke the license of a nuclear and radiation facility. Withdrawal of Consent for operating the facility by itself is a very severe economic penalty and has the potential of seriously affecting the financial health of the Licensee. (d)&(e) It is true that there are a large number of diagnostic X-ray units/facilities in the country and not all these units are under the regulatory control of AERB. However, the radiation hazard involved in such facilities is as such low. In regulation of these facilities, AERB’s approach is primarily to ensure safety built into the design of the equipment. The regulatory control is exercised on the suppliers/manufacturers to ensure maintenance of quality assurance during manufacturing/sale of such units to give satisfactory performance during the use at the place of end users. This is in line with the approach followed across the world.

AERB has taken measures to implement a state of the art web-based service ‘E-Licensing of Radiation Applications’ (E-LORA) to assist AERB in strengthening its regulatory control. AERB has also intensified its efforts to raise the public awareness about the radiation safety among its stakeholders through advertisements in electronic and print media. RADIATION ACCIDENTS IN ATOMIC POWER STATIONS 13th December, 2012 RSQ 2173 DR. T.N. SEEMA

(a) whether exposure to radiation atomic mishap/accidents has been happening in Atomic Power Stations and Nuclear plants in India;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the number of workers affected by the radiation in last three years and the

current year;

(c) whether Government has conducted any inquiries in this regard;

(d) if so, the outcome thereof;

(e) the steps taken/being taken by Government to avoid such incidents in future; and

(f) the details of the guidelines/rules which govern the amount of compensation in the event of an atomic mishap/accident?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) to (e) There has been no radiation atomic mishap or accident in Nuclear Power Plants in India. AERB has issued safety directive on the dose limits for occupational exposures. As per this directive, the cumulative effective dose limit for each consecutive block of five years shall be one hundred millisievert (100-mSv) for individual radiation workers. In addition, the annual effective dose to individual workers in any calender year should not exceed 30-mSv. These limits are in-line with the recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). These limits are very conservative as no adverse impact on health of workers is expected upto the radiation exposure of 1-Sv. In order to have better control over individual exposures, AERB has specified investigation levels above which all the cases of individual exposures are to be investigated. These levels are as follows: Monitoring Period Exposure Level 1-month 10-mSv 3-months 15-mSv 1-year 20-mSv The exposure cases above these levels are investigated by a Exposure Investigation Committee (EIC) constituted by Station. This Committee investigates genuineness of the reported exposure, investigates the causes of exposure; suggests remedial measures to prevent recurrence of such exposures and suggests further action in respect of work to be allocated to such exposed persons. The Committee recommends medical follow-up, if required, and assign doses for inclusion in the records. The report of EIC is submitted to AERB. Investigation of exposures exceeding 100-mSv is done by a Committee constituted by Chairman, SARCOP. The details regarding investigation levels and the review mechanism are brought out in AERB Safety Manual on ''Radiation Protection for Nuclear Facilities'' (AERB/NF/SM/O-2 Rev.4, 2005). During the last three years and the current year, there was no case of individual exposure exceeding 100-mSv in five consecutive years at Indian NPPs (KGS). However, there were five cases of individual exposure exceeding

annual limit of 30-mSv in a calendar year. It may be noted that these doses are too small to cause any detectable impact on the biological health of the workers, as established by international experience. AERB undertook special regulatory inspections to investigate the circumstances that resulted in these exposures. Safety Review Committee for Operating Plants (SARCOP) of AERB reviewed the reports on investigation of these exposures and made recommendations to avoid re-occurrence of such events. (f) The amount of compensation for the workers in the event of an accident will be governed by the “Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923”. EXEMPTION OF KUDANKULAM PLANT FROM NUCLEAR LIABILITY ACT 13th December, 2012 RSQ 2174 SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR

(a) whether the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) and Russia have requested Government for exemption of Kudankulam Plant from the Nuclear Liability Act;

(b) if so, details thereof and reasons therefor;

(c) whether Attorney General was consulted in this matter and if so, what advice given by him; and

(d) the names of the entities that will pay in case of any accident happens to Plant?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Atomstroyexport (ASE), the authorised organisation of Russian Federation, in their commercial offer to Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) in respect of Kudankulam Units 3&4 has stated that NPCIL being operator is fully responsible for any damage caused to any person and property as a result of a nuclear incident occurring at NPP. ASE has mentioned that their plea is based on the principle of continuity of cooperation in construction of KKNPP in accordance with the agreement between the USSR and Republic of India dated 20th November 1988, supplement thereto dated 21st June, 1998 and in line with the provisions of Intergovernmental Agreement dated 5th December, 2008. (c) The Attorney General of India has opined that the decision on not exercising the right of recourse under Section 17 of Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 at the stage of signing of Techno-Commercial Offer (TCO) is legally permissible. (d) In case of an accident, the Operator is required to pay the compensation up to an amount of Rs.1500 crore and compensation in excess of Rs.1500 crore is payable by the Central Government subject to an overall ceiling of 300 million Special Drawing Rights (SDRs). However, the Central Government may take additional measures, where necessary, if the compensation to be awarded exceeds above amount. UPGRADATION OF SAFETY MEASURES 13th December, 2012 RSQ 2176 SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

(a) whether Government wants safety measures upgraded at nuclear facilities;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) if not, the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) & (b) Hon''ble Prime Minister in his statement of 14 March 2011 after the Fukushima accident reiterated that the Government attaches highest importance to nuclear safety. All the nuclear power plants in India are under continuous regulatory surveillance by Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) and detailed periodic safety reviews of these plants are conducted while renewing their operating licence. In addition, all the nuclear power plants have an established programme of operating experience feedback under which the events occurring in Indian nuclear power plants and other countries are reviewed. Even though the safety record of Indian nuclear power plants is excellent, the upgradation of safety to still higher levels is an ongoing exercise, conducted through periodic reviews and incorporation of lessons learnt from national and international operational feedback. The safety upgrades in Indian nuclear facilities, as needed to maintain the state of the art safety features, are accordingly implemented. (c) Does not arise. SAFETY MEASURES RECOMMENDED BY EXPERT COMMITTEE 13th December, 2012 RSQ 2177 SHRI VASANTHI STANLEY (a) whether the Kudankulam plant is to be commissioned comply with the 17 safety measures recommended by

the Expert Committee; (b) whether the department’s plan is to comply with all the recommendations of the Expert Committee; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) The Kudankulam plant design has several advanced features including those for ensuring safety against external events of natural origin as well as accidents. Additional 17 safety enhancements recommended by Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) are by way of abundant caution. (b) Yes, Sir. (c) Does not arise. NETWORK TO DEAL WITH NUCLEAR RADIATION EMERGENCY SITUATIONS 13th December, 2912 RSQ 2178 DR. V. MAITREYAN

(a) whether Government proposes to set up a network of radiation emergency response centres in different parts of the country to deal with nuclear emergency situations;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the cost involved;

(c) the benefits that are likely to be accrued as a result thereof; and

(d) the time by which such centres are likely to be operational in the country with their locations? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) A network of twenty-two radiation Emergency Response Centers (ERC) equipped with adequate radiation measuring and personnel protective equipment and trained Emergency Response Teams have been established by Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in different parts of the country to respond to nuclear and radiation emergency situations occurring anywhere in the country. The existing Emergency Response Centres are located at following places: a) Mumbai (Nodal DAE-ERC), Maharashtra b) Tarapur, Maharashtra c) Kaiga, Karnataka d) Kota, Rajasthan e) Kakrapar, Gujarat f) Narora, Uttar Pradesh g) Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu h) Kolkata, West Bengal i) Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh j) Aluva, Kerala k) Jaduguda, Jharkhand l) Bangalore, Karnataka m) Shillong, Meghalaya n) Jaipur, Rajasthan, o) Nagpur, Maharashtra p) New Delhi q) Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu r) Indore, Madhya Pradesh s) Gandhinagar, Gujarat t) Mysore, Karnataka u) Manavalakurichi, Tamil Nadu v) Chatrapur, Odisha These centers have been established at a total cost of Rs.15 Crores. (c) These centres have strengthened preparedness at National level for response to nuclear and radiological emergencies and will enable the first responders from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)/Police or any other agencies to get proper advice, guidance and technical support in case of nuclear and radiological emergency in public domain. (d) All the twenty-two DAE-Emergency Response Centers are already commissioned and made operational as mentioned in answer to part (a) & (b) of question. NUCLEAR POWER PLANT IN FATEHABAD DISTRICT OF HARYANA 20th December, 2012 RSQ 2946 SHRI KANWAR DEEP SINGH

(a) whether Government has taken note to discontent among local residents about the setting up of a nuclear power plant in the Fatehabad district of Haryana;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the steps that Government has taken to address these concerns;

(c) whether the proposed power plant has obtained the required clearances from the pertinent authorities;


(e) if not, the reasons therefor? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a)&(b) Initially, a section of the farmers whose land was being acquired had expressed discontent over the compensation and related issues. The compensation package for the land acquired, finalised in consultation with the state government is quite attractive and most of the farmers have collected their compensation cheques. As such, there is no general discontent among the farmers. For enhancing awareness on project related issues, series of public outreach programmes have been conducted on the benefits, safety and other aspects of the project. (c)to(e) The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report has been completed and public hearing held. The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) has asked for additional information from the project proponent. The application for siting consent for Gorakhpur site has been submitted to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). SAFETY REVIEW DONE BY IAEA 20th December, 2012 RSQ 2950 SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR

(a) whether a safety review of the Atomic power stations including Rawatbhata in Rajasthan has been done recently by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) or by other agencies;

(b) if so, the details thereof and steps Government proposes to take to address the concerns expressed during

such review;

(c) whether Government proposes to conduct periodic safety review of all the Atomic Power Stations in the country; and

(d) if so, by when and the details thereof, State-wise?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) Yes Sir. The safety review of Rajasthan Atomic Power Station (RAPS) Units 3&4 at Rawatbhata was carried out by the Operational Safety Review Team (OSART) of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) at the request of the Government of India during October 29 to November 14, 2012. (b) The OSART identified a series of good practices at the station, to be shared by IAEA with the global nuclear industry as well as made suggestions where operations in the units could be further improved. The final report of the OSART has not been received. The recommendations/suggestions of the OSART are reviewed for systemic change. (c)&(d) The safety reviews of the Indian nuclear power plants are carried out periodically by the regulatory authority, the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). In addition, international peer reviews are also carried out by experts of the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO). Post Fukushima, Government decided to get the safety of RAPS Units 3&4 reviewed by the OSART of IAEA also, which has been completed. DUMPING OF NUCLEAR WASTE 20th December, 2012 RSQ 2953

SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI

(a) whether it is a fact that the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has been facing a serious problem regarding handling of nuclear waste;


(c) whether it is also a fact that the local people have been objecting dumping of nuclear waste in their

respective places;

(d) if so, the details thereof;

(e) whether the NPCIL is considering to adopt any technology to dispose off the nuclear waste; and

(f) if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY) : (a) No, Sir. (b) Does not arise. (c)&(d) In India, nuclear wastes are safely stored and disposed as per the international practices. As a national policy, each nuclear plant in India has a designated storage facility co-located in the plant site and, as needed, such waste is further processed in designated DAE facilities for compaction and immobilisation. There is no objection from the local people about storage and management of waste at such sites. (e)&(f) India follows a closed nuclear fuel cycle policy in which the spent nuclear fuel is not treated as waste. It is reprocessed at reprocessing facilities for obtaining valuable fuel for use in the programme. After reprocessing, the small amount of high level waste is vitrified in the waste immobilisation plants co-located with the reprocessing plants and stored in engineered facilities. Nuclear wastes generated at nuclear power plants are of low to intermediate radioactivity level. These are treated, immobilised in cement/polymer matrices and stored in specially designed double walled, high integrity containers placed in RCC trenches / storage facilities at the nuclear power plant site itself in accordance with the well-established and proven procedures. The area around the waste storage facility is regularly monitored to ensure that there is no effect on the environment. The radioactivity of these wastes reduces to near ambient levels by the end of operational life of the plant.

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