Why in news?
As per Joint India-European Union Comprehensive Strategic Agenda on Tuesday (January 27, 2026) the European Union (EU) and India have committed to promoting collaboration on the peaceful uses of nuclear energy under the India-Euratom agreement.
Highlights of the India–EU Nuclear Cooperation
- Framework: The cooperation is under the India–Euratom agreement, signed in July 2020. Euratom (European Atomic Energy Community) is the EU’s body for coordinating nuclear research and safety.
- Scope of Collaboration:
- Nuclear science & technology R&D: Joint research projects to advance fundamental and applied nuclear sciences.
- Advanced materials for detectors: Development of cutting-edge materials for radiation detection and monitoring.
- Radiation safety & nuclear security: Enhancing protocols to ensure safe handling and secure use of nuclear materials.
- Non-power applications: Expanding nuclear technology beyond electricity generation, such as in medicine, agriculture, and industry.
- Radio-pharmaceuticals: Cooperation in producing isotopes used in medical diagnostics and cancer treatment.
- ITER Project: Strengthened collaboration in the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor, the world’s largest fusion experiment in France, where India is already a major partner.
Strategic Significance
- Energy Security: India gains access to advanced nuclear technologies, supporting its clean energy transition.
- Global Leadership: Both India and the EU position themselves as leaders in peaceful nuclear applications, reinforcing commitments to non-proliferation.
- Healthcare Impact: Radio-pharmaceutical cooperation can boost India’s medical infrastructure, especially in cancer diagnostics and therapy.
- Fusion Future: ITER collaboration ties India to the global effort to make fusion energy commercially viable, potentially revolutionizing energy supply.
About Euratom
Euratom (European Atomic Energy Community) is an international organization created in 1957 to coordinate the peaceful use of nuclear energy among European states. It remains legally distinct from the EU but shares institutions, budget, and policies with it today.
Key Facts About Euratom
- Established: 1957 under the Treaty of Rome (entered into force on 1 January 1958)
- Purpose: To create a common market for nuclear energy, ensuring safe, secure, and peaceful use of atomic energy across Europe.
- Members: All EU member states; associated states include Switzerland and the United Kingdom (post-Brexit, UK remains associated via agreements).
- Institutional Framework: Shares institutions with the European Union, including the European Commission.
- Scope: Focuses on civil nuclear energy only (not military applications).
Objectives of Euratom
- Promote research and development in nuclear energy.
- Ensure supply of nuclear fuels to member states.
- Establish uniform safety standards for radiation protection.
- Facilitate investment in nuclear energy projects.
- Encourage international cooperation on peaceful nuclear energy.
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