PIB Analysis 28-11-22

Small Modular Reactors (SMR)

India is taking steps for development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR), with up to 300 MW capacity to fulfill its commitment to Clean Energy transition.
Small Modular Reactors (SMR), with up to 300 MW capacity by nature are flexible in design and require smaller footprint.
Being mobile and agile technology, SMR can be factory-built unlike the conventional nuclear reactors that are built on–site.
Thus, SMRs offers significant savings in cost and construction time. S
MR is a promising technology in industrial de-carbonization especially where there is a requirement of reliable and continuous supply of power.
It is said that SMR is simpler and safer as compared to large nuclear plants.
India today stands at number four in the Renewable Energy installed capacity across the world, after China, Europe and United States.
It must be noted that India, comprising 17% of the world population has seen its primary energy growing at rate of 4% during the last decade, almost double the global growth rate of 1.3%.

The bilateral training exercise “AUSTRA HIND 22” between contingents of the Indian Army and the Australian Army is scheduled to take place at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges (Rajasthan) from 28 November to 11 December 2022.
This is the first exercise in the series of AUSTRA HIND with participation of all arms and services contingent from both armies.
The Australian Army contingent comprising soldiers from the 13th Brigade of the 2nd Division has arrived at the exercise location.
The Indian Army is represented by troops from the DOGRA Regiment.
Exercise “AUSTRA HIND” will be a yearly event that will be conducted alternatively in India and Australia.
Aim of the exercise is to build positive military relations, imbibe each other’s best practices and promote the ability to operate together while undertaking multi-domain operations in Semi deserts terrain under a UN peace enforcement mandate.
This joint exercise will enable the two armies to share best practices in tactics, techniques and procedures for conducting tactical operations at Company and Platoon level for neutralising hostile threats.