Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | International Relation | Science & Technology
Why in News?
At the 70th IAEA General Conference, India showcased readiness to share nuclear expertise, highlighting its role in the ATLAS initiative and leadership in regional nuclear cooperation.
ATLAS Initiative (IAEA): India’s Participation
- ATLAS stands for Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications at Sea.
- Launched in – August 2026, Washington DC (IAEA ministerial event); India joined at launch.
- Objective – To explore safe nuclear power solutions for commercial shipping and floating energy plants, focusing on small modular reactors for maritime and offshore applications.
- India’s participation aligns with its Nuclear Energy Mission and commitment to low-carbon energy security.
India's Chairmanship – Regional Cooperative Agreement (RCA)
- RCA – It is a framework for nuclear science and technology collaboration in the Asia-Pacific region.
- Operating under – International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
- India assumed the chairmanship of the RCA in May 2026, operating under the theme of “Vishwa Bandhu Bharat.”
- Objective – To emphasizes collaborative research, technology dissemination, and human resource development, thereby reinforcing South-South cooperation.
- This development substantiates assertions regarding India's leadership in regional nuclear cooperation platforms.
LIGO-India
- Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO)-India is a significant Mega-science project.
- Located in – Hingoli, Maharashtra.
- Aim – To the detection and study of gravitational waves.
- It marks a critical milestone with engineering, procurement, and construction activities, driven by extensive international scientific collaboration.
Reference
Times of India | India Joined IAEA’s Atomic Technologies
