Thorium holds immense significance for India as it could potentially be the answer to the country's escalating energy needs. Although Thorium in itself is not a fissile material (a material capable of sustaining a fission reaction in nuclear reactors to generate energy), it is a fertile material that can transform into the fissile material Uranium (U-233). With the growing concerns of climate change, the world is under pressure to transition towards renewable energy sources. Currently, India is heavily reliant on Thermal power to meet its energy demands. However, Nuclear energy can provide a viable alternative to thermal energy. For instance, France, one of the most developed nations globally, fulfills 80% of its energy requirements through nuclear energy.
This topic will serve as a useful resource for candidates preparing for the IAS Exam .
