Bhubaneswar: Eminent nuclear scientist Dr. A.K. Tyagi emphasized the crucial role of harnessing nuclear science in all possible ways for India’s sustainable development and to meet future energy demands.
Speaking at a lecture organized by the Odisha chapter of the Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) at Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Dr. Tyagi highlighted nuclear energy’s importance in clean power generation amidst the pressing issue of climate change.
He asserted that nuclear power is a reliable and sustainable energy source vital for India’s growing energy needs and for reducing reliance on polluting sources. Dr. Tyagi stressed the necessity of developing advanced reactor technologies, including thorium and small modular reactors, to enhance efficiency and safety.
Furthermore, he elaborated on the diverse applications of nuclear science beyond energy, encompassing agriculture, medicine (radioisotopes for diagnostics and cancer treatment), and material science (radiation processing for food preservation). Dr. Tyagi underscored nuclear technology’s contribution to achieving several of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
He cautioned about the alarming rise in atmospheric Carbon Dioxide levels and advocated for measures to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions. Dr. Tyagi pointed out that nuclear energy generation produces the least pollution compared to fossil fuels and noted India’s vast thorium reserves.
The lecture was the first in a series marking National Technology Day and was attended by prominent figures including Prof. Damodar Acharya, Prof. Pradipta Kumar Nanda, and Prof. Subhranshu Ranjan Samantaray. The series will feature lectures by other distinguished scientists at various institutions in Bhubaneswar.