Introduction

The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), the world’s largest collaborative fusion energy project, symbolizes the global pursuit of safe and limitless clean energy. India’s steady progress in fusion research has enabled it to play a vital role in ITER, reflecting its commitment to scientific advancement and long-term energy security.

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 India’s Contribution to ITER

• Founding Member: India joined ITER in 2005 as one of the seven partners (EU, USA, Russia, Japan, China, South Korea, India).
• In-Kind Contribution: Supplying ~9% of ITER’s construction cost through high-tech components rather than cash.
• Major Components Supplied:
  • Cryostat (the largest stainless-steel vacuum chamber in the world, manufactured by L&T).
  • In-wall shielding blocks and cooling water systems.
  • Power supplies and diagnostics systems.
• Technical Expertise: Indian scientists from the Institute for Plasma Research (IPR), Gandhinagar, have led critical R&D on plasma, cryogenics, and materials.
• Industry Participation: Indian companies (L&T, BHEL, Godrej) are key suppliers, showcasing “Make in India” in high-tech manufacturing.
  

Positive Implications of ITER’s Success for Global Energy

• Abundant Energy Supply: Fusion uses hydrogen isotopes like deuterium and tritium, which can be easily sourced from seawater, making fuel supply practically limitless.
• Clean & Green Power: No greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global climate goals.
• Reduced Nuclear Waste: Fusion produces short-lived waste, unlike the long-lived radioactive waste of fission.
• Global Technological Collaboration: Success of ITER strengthens scientific cooperation and accelerates innovation in high-tech sectors.

Negative Impact/Side: Fusion energy, even if scientifically successful, faces practical hurdles such as limited tritium supply, complex fuel breeding and waste management, high initial costs, project delays, and evolving regulations. This makes scaling up and commercialization a gradual process.

Conclusion

India’s contribution to ITER reflects its commitment to clean energy leadership. If successful, ITER could revolutionize the world’s energy future, offering a sustainable, carbon-free, and secure source.

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