Mains issueGS-2News & Analysis24 October 2026

Global Nuclear Energy Landscape: Growth, Non-Proliferation, and Safety Challenges

An aspirant should be able to articulate the dual role of nuclear energy as a critical component of global clean energy transition and energy security, while simultaneously understanding the persistent international challenges of non-proliferation, safety, and the indispensable role of international bodies like the IAEA in managing these complexities.

Source: thehindu.comOriginal report

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Why now

The IAEA Director-General's annual report to the UN General Assembly projects a significant increase in global nuclear power capacity by 2060, driven by energy security and climate goals, while also highlighting persistent challenges in nuclear non-proliferation and safety in conflict zones. This makes it a timely issue for understanding global energy transitions and international security dynamics.

Core issue

The head of the UN nuclear agency, Rafael Grossi, projects that global nuclear power use could more than triple by 2060, driven by electrification, AI data centers, and the demand for reliable, carbon-free energy for energy security and climate goals. He reported to the UN General Assembly that nuclear power currently provides 10% of global electricity and a quarter of its low-carbon electricity. Concurrently, Grossi highlighted ongoing international challenges, including nuclear non-proliferation concerns in Iran and North Korea, unprecedented threats to nuclear safety at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia plant due to military activity, and progress in clarifying Syria's past nuclear activities.

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