Nuclear energy key to sustainable development, says eminent scientist A.K. Tyagi

Bhubaneswar, May 19: Nuclear science must be fully harnessed to drive India’s sustainable development and meet its future energy needs, said renowned nuclear scientist Dr. A.K. Tyagi. Speaking at the first of four distinguished lectures organised by the Odisha chapter of the Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE), Dr. Tyagi emphasized the pivotal role of nuclear energy in clean power generation, especially in the face of climate change.

Delivering a lecture on “Sustainable Development: Role of Nuclear Science and Technology” at Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) Deemed University, Dr. Tyagi highlighted the reliability and sustainability of nuclear power for a growing economy like India. The lecture series was launched to mark National Technology Day, commemorating India’s Pokhran nuclear tests of May 1998.

Dr. Tyagi, Senior Professor at Bhabha National Institute and former Director of Chemistry and Bio-Science Groups at BARC, advocated for the development of advanced nuclear technologies, including thorium and small modular reactors. He noted that nuclear energy contributes significantly to low-carbon goals and can help achieve eight out of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He also outlined diverse applications of nuclear science in medicine, agriculture, and materials science—such as cancer treatment using radioisotopes and food preservation via radiation.

The program was attended by Prof. Damodar Acharya (INAE Odisha Chair), SOA VC Prof. P.K. Nanda, and others. The series will continue with lectures by Dr. Kota Harinarayana, Dr. V. Narayanan (ISRO), and Dr. Binay Kumar Das (DRDO) at institutions across Bhubaneswar between May 19 and 23.