Theme T151 · Science & Technology

Nuclear & fusion energy: FBR, ITER, raw materials

Share this theme

What UPSC asks

Cross-paper GS1–GS3: raw materials for atomic energy, FBR vs thermal reactor and 'criticality', India's ITER role, nuclear expansion facts and fears, and the growth of nuclear science.

Prepare these

• Three-stage programme; thorium
• PFBR Kalpakkam and criticality
• ITER contributions
• Safety, waste, liability law (CLNDA)

Answer writing

• Balance facts and fears

Directive words in these PYQs: Discuss (2), Explain (1), Distinguish (1), Mention (1).

Linked themes

Builds on: study these first

These come earlier in the roadmap. Questions in this theme use them.

On the map

Syllabus lines covered

• GS1-L11 — Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent); factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world (including India)
• GS3-L11 — Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life
• GS3-L12 — Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.

All 5 PYQs, newest first

1. GS3202610 marks · 150 wordsGS3-SCI-01-M2026-S01

   Distinguish between a Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) and a thermal nuclear reactor. In the context of first indigenously developed prototype FBR at Kalpakkam, explain the term ‘criticality’. What are its implications for clean energy future of our country?

   CopyReport a typo
2. GS3202510 marks · 150 wordsGS3-SCI-01-M2025-Q05

   The fusion energy programme in India has steadily evolved over the past few decades. Mention India's contributions to the international fusion energy project – International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). What will be the implications of the success of this project for the future of global energy?

   CopyReport a typo
3. GS32018GS3-SCI-01-M2018-S02

   With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy?

   CopyReport a typo
4. GS32017GS3-SCI-01-M2017-S01

   Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What is the advantage of fast breeder reactor programme in India?

   CopyReport a typo
5. GS12013GS1-GEO-05-M2013-S01

   With growing scarcity of fossil fuels, the atomic energy is gaining more and more significance in India. Discuss the availability of raw material required for the generation of atomic energy in India and in the world.

   CopyReport a typo