The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has announced significant milestones and contributions across multiple sectors in its year-end review for 2024.
Nuclear Power Programme
India’s nuclear power initiatives advanced significantly, with the Atomic Minerals Directorate discovering 15,598 tonnes of uranium oxide in Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan, boosting the country’s reserves to 4,25,570 tonnes.
The Jaduguda Mines unearthed new uranium deposits, extending their operational life by 50 years.
The Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) achieved critical milestones, including core loading and sodium pump commissioning. The indigenous 700 MWe PHWR reactors at Kakrapar and Rawatbhata progressed, with the former commencing commercial operations.
Healthcare and Radiopharmaceuticals
DAE’s Tata Memorial Centre leads the National Cancer Grid, treating 60% of India’s cancer cases.
The network expanded regionally through partnerships with WHO South-East Asia. In diabetic care, BARC’s nitric oxide-releasing wound dressings completed Phase III trials and received regulatory approval.
Innovations and Discoveries
The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory, Asia’s largest Cherenkov telescope, was inaugurated in Ladakh.
A breakthrough in cosmic-ray research was made at the GRAPES-3 experiment in Ooty, while TIFR developed India’s first 6-qubit quantum processor.
Agriculture and Sustainability
BARC developed high-yield, disease-resistant blackgram and rice varieties, contributing to India’s agricultural growth. Additionally, advancements in eco-friendly technologies, such as plasma pyrolysis for biomedical waste disposal, showcased DAE’s focus on sustainability.
International Recognition and Awards
Indian students excelled in international Olympiads, earning multiple medals in physics, chemistry, and mathematics. Notable awards included Vigyan to Dr. A. K. Tyagi and Prof. Naba Mandal, the Rajbhasha Kirti Puraskar for promoting India’s official language, and the G.D. Birla Award for Prof. Aditi Sen De, the first woman physicist to receive this honour.
Technological Advances
DAE institutions developed groundbreaking technologies, including radiation detectors, neutron irradiation studies, and the indigenous production of hard magnets.
Collaborative ventures with industry partners strengthened the application of these technologies in critical sectors.
The DAE’s consistent focus on nuclear energy, healthcare, and innovation reflects its commitment to advancing India’s scientific and technological landscape while addressing key societal challenges.
