In which state is the Tarapur Nuclear Power Reactor located?

The correct answer is Maharashtra.

Key Points

• The Tarapur Nuclear Power Reactor is located in Tarapur, Maharashtra.
• It is India's first nuclear power station and became operational in 1969.
• It is operated by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
• Tarapur Nuclear Power Plant currently consists of four reactors: two Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs) and two Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs).
• The BWRs at Tarapur were supplied by the United States under a 1963 agreement.

Additional Information

• Nuclear Power in India:
  • India's nuclear program began in 1954 under the guidance of Dr. Homi Bhabha, the father of India's nuclear energy program.
  • India has a three-stage nuclear power program aimed at utilizing its vast thorium reserves.
• Types of Reactors:
  • Boiling Water Reactor (BWR): Water boils directly in the reactor core to produce steam for turbines.
  • Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR): Uses heavy water as both coolant and moderator.
• Significance of Tarapur:
  • It marked the beginning of India's journey into nuclear power generation.
  • It plays a vital role in India's effort to reduce carbon emissions by producing clean energy.
• Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL):
  • NPCIL was established in 1987 under the Department of Atomic Energy.
  • It is responsible for the design, construction, and operation of nuclear power plants in India.
• India's Nuclear Capacity:
  • India has 23 operational nuclear reactors as of 2023, producing approximately 6,780 MW of electricity.
  • The government has plans to increase nuclear power capacity to 22,480 MW by 2031.