India Unveils World’s First Nuclear-Powered Hydrogen Plant

India's Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has inaugurated the world’s first hydrogen production facility at IGCAR, Kalpakkam, using the Copper–Chlorine (Cu–Cl) thermochemical cycle powered by nuclear heat from the Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR). This breakthrough positions India at the forefront of carbon-free hydrogen innovation, integrating advanced nuclear technology with clean energy goals.

Imagine boiling water in a special pot, and instead of just steam, clever chemistry breaks the water into hydrogen (fuel) and oxygen (air). The “ingredients” (copper and chlorine compounds) act like kitchen helpers—used again and again, never wasted.

Developed through the combined expertise of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and IGCAR, this first-of-its-kind facility reflects the strength of indigenous innovation and reinforces the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat through advanced nuclear science and technology.

In this breakthrough, Hydrogen burns without smoke—only water comes out and unlike petrol or coal, this process doesn’t release CO₂. Instead of wasting electricity, it uses heat from reactors that already exist. In its future usage, Hydrogen can run cars, factories, and even airplanes without polluting the air. 

So, in plain words —

India has built a “magic kitchen” at IGCAR that cooks water with nuclear heat, serving up clean hydrogen fuel without smoke or waste.

Key Highlights

• Inauguration Date: 26 June 2026
• Location: Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu
• Technology: Copper–Chlorine (Cu–Cl) thermochemical cycle developed by BARC
• Heat Source: Nuclear process heat from the Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR)
• Leaders Present: Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty and Sreekumar G. Pillai

How the Cu–Cl Cycle Works

• Process: Splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using nuclear heat.
• Efficiency: Operates at lower temperatures than other thermochemical cycles.
• Environmental Impact: Produces zero greenhouse gas emissions.

Strategic Importance

• Energy Security: Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels.
• Clean Energy Transition: Supports India’s Net Zero 2070 target.
• Global Leadership: First-of-its-kind facility worldwide.
• Scalability: Technology demonstrator providing operational data for future deployment.

Comparison: Hydrogen Production Methods

Method	Energy Source	Emissions	Efficiency	Global Status
Steam Methane Reforming	Natural Gas	High CO₂	Moderate	Widely used
Electrolysis	Electricity (renewables/nuclear)	Zero (if clean power)	Moderate	Growing adoption
Cu–Cl Cycle	Nuclear Heat	Zero	High	First facility at IGCAR

Risks & Challenges

• Scaling Up: Requires large infrastructure investments.
• Public Perception: Nuclear-linked hydrogen may face acceptance challenges.
• Global Competition: Other nations exploring rival cycles.

Next Steps for India

• Expand: Move Cu–Cl hydrogen production to industrial scale.
• Integrate: Use Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) for distributed hydrogen generation.
• Export: Position India as a global supplier of clean hydrogen.

Beyond India’s Cu–Cl breakthrough at IGCAR, several other nuclear-assisted hydrogen systems are being explored worldwide, including sulfur–iodine cycles in Japan and South Korea, high-temperature electrolysis in the U.S. and Europe, and hybrid thermochemical projects under the IAEA. These efforts aim to leverage nuclear heat for large-scale, carbon-free hydrogen.

India’s Cu–Cl facility is unique for its lower temperature requirement, making it more practical than sulfur–iodine cycles. Globally, HTGRs and advanced reactors are expected to drive nuclear hydrogen, with pilot projects in Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. forming the backbone of future deployment.

DRDO Hands Over Netra AEW&C FOC to IAF – Landmark in India’s Aerospace Self‑Reliance

The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has handed over the Final Operational Clearance (FOC) of the indigenous ‘Netra’ Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system to the Indian Air Force (IAF), marking a landmark in India’s journey toward aerospace self‑reliance. The ceremony took place in Bengaluru on June 25, 2026, with senior defence leaders and scientists in attendance.

The Netra AEW&C system is India’s first fully indigenous airborne early warning and control platform, developed by DRDO over two decades. It received Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) in 2017 and Final Operational Clearance (FOC) in June 2026, marking a major milestone in India’s defence self‑reliance.

DRDO Hands Over Final Operational Clearance of Netra AEW&C to IAF

Key Highlights of the Milestone

• Final Operational Clearance (FOC): Granted to the Netra AEW&C system, indigenously developed by DRDO in collaboration with IAF and industry partners.
• Operational Legacy: The system proved its reliability during Operation Sindoor (2025) and the Balakot strikes (2019), enhancing India’s airborne surveillance and battle management capabilities.
• Ceremonial Leadership: Presided over by Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti, Deputy Chief of the Air Staff, with participation from former IAF Chief RKS Bhadauria (Retd), former DRDO Chairman Dr S Christopher, and senior DRDO scientists.
• Indigenous Achievement: Represents a major stride in Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the vision of Viksit Bharat through advanced aerospace technologies.

Strategic Importance

• Enhanced Surveillance: Netra AEW&C provides 360° radar coverage, real‑time situational awareness, and command‑and‑control functions critical for modern warfare.
• Battlefield Flexibility: Indigenous design allows custom modifications to adapt to evolving war scenarios, ensuring operational agility.
• Self‑Reliance: Demonstrates India’s ability to design, test, and operationalize complex airborne systems without foreign dependence.

Contributions & Recognition

• System Engineering Excellence: Dr K Rajalakshmi Menon (DG Aeronautics Cluster, DRDO) highlighted the role of system engineering and flight‑test planning in achieving programme objectives.
• Electronics Innovation: Dr BK Das (DG Electronics Cluster, DRDO) emphasized stakeholder synergy as the cornerstone of success.
• Industry & Scientific Collaboration: Organisations and units pivotal to Netra’s success were felicitated, underscoring the ecosystem approach to defence innovation.

Broader Defence Context

• Operation Sindoor (2025): Netra AEW&C played a vital role in precision strikes against terror camps in Pakistan and PoK, showcasing India’s Made‑in‑India defence capabilities.
• DRDO’s Expanding Portfolio: Alongside Netra, DRDO has advanced systems like Astra Mk‑II BVRAAM, Anant Shastra QRSAM, and LRASSCM, reinforcing India’s defence modernization.

Leadership Endorsements

• Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh: Called the FOC a technological and strategic milestone, strengthening India’s airborne surveillance and command capabilities.
• Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh: Congratulated DRDO’s Aero Cluster and Team AEW&C for delivering an operationally capable system.

Brief History of Netra AEW&C

Origins and Early Development

• 1980s–1990s: India’s first attempt at airborne surveillance was the Airborne Surveillance Platform (ASP) project, codenamed Airavat.
• 1999 setback: A tragic crash of a modified HS‑748 Avro testbed near Arakkonam killed eight personnel, leading to suspension of the programme.
• 2003 revival: IAF and DRDO jointly studied requirements for a new AEW&C system.
• 2004 sanction: Government approved the AEW&C project, assigning primary responsibility to Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS).

Platform and Technology

• Aircraft base: Mounted on Embraer EMB‑145I jets, procured in 2008 with modifications for in‑flight refueling and SATCOM.
• Radar: Equipped with Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar providing 240° coverage and detecting threats up to 375 km.
• Mission suite: Includes Identification Friend or Foe (IFF), secure datalinks, electronic support measures (ESM), and communication support measures.

Operational Milestones

• IOC (2017): Netra entered service with the IAF’s 200 Squadron.
• Combat use: Demonstrated reliability during the Balakot strikes (2019) and Operation Sindoor (2025).
• FOC (2026): Officially handed over to the IAF in Bengaluru, confirming full operational capability.

Legacy and Future

Netra’s journey reflects perseverance after setbacks, scientific innovation, and strong IAF‑DRDO collaboration. The programme has laid the foundation for future indigenous AEW&C variants with expanded coverage and endurance.

Conclusion

The Netra AEW&C system evolved from India’s abandoned 1999 ASP project into a fully operational indigenous airborne surveillance platform by 2026. It now stands as a symbol of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, strengthening India’s aerial command‑and‑control capabilities.

The FOC of Netra AEW&C is more than a technological achievement—it is a strategic leap in India’s defence preparedness, symbolizing the synergy of science, industry, and armed forces. It strengthens India’s aerial command‑and‑control capabilities while advancing the nation’s vision of self‑reliance in defence technologies.

ISRO Achieves 175‑Tonne Semi‑Cryogenic Engine Hot Test, Paving Path to 200‑Tonne Thrust for LVM3 Upgrade

ISRO has achieved a major milestone by successfully conducting a hot test of its Semi‑Cryogenic Engine Power Head Test Article (PHTA) at 175‑tonne thrust on June 24, 2026, at the ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This test marks a crucial step toward full‑scale 200‑tonne thrust capability, strengthening India’s indigenous launch vehicle technology.

Notably, the Semi‑cryogenic engines use liquid oxygen (LOX) and isrosene (purified kerosene), which are cleaner and more efficient than older toxic fuels.

A full‑scale 200‑tonne thrust rocket engine means the engine can push with a force equal to lifting about 200 tonnes (200,000 kilograms) straight off the ground — imagine the weight of 130 cars being lifted at once. It’s the raw “push power” that propels a massive rocket skyward.

A 200‑tonne thrust class engine puts ISRO in the league of agencies like NASA and Roscosmos, which use similar high‑power engines for heavy‑lift missions.

ISRO Achieves 175‑Tonne Semi‑Cryogenic Engine Hot Test

Key Highlights of the Test

• Date & Location: June 24, 2026, at ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu
• Thrust Level: Achieved 175 tonnes (88%) thrust, up from earlier tests at 94 tonnes (47%) and 120 tonnes (60%)
• Engine Systems: PHTA includes all engine subsystems except the thrust chamber
• Performance: Demonstrated successful operation of main turbopumps delivering 400 and 500 bar outlet pressures
• Outcome: All parameters matched predictions, providing confidence for the upcoming 200‑tonne (100%) thrust test

Strategic Importance

• Indigenous Development: Strengthens India’s self‑reliance in advanced propulsion systems
• SC120 Stage: Powered by the 2000 kN‑class SE2000 engine, will replace the current L110 core stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle
• Payload Boost: Expected to substantially increase payload capacity and enhance operational efficiency
• Cleaner Propellants: Uses Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and purified kerosene (isrosene), which are non‑toxic and more efficient

Roadmap for LVM3

• Integration Plan: Semi‑cryogenic propulsion will be paired with an uprated cryogenic upper stage
• Capability Expansion: Enhances LVM3’s payload capacity for heavier satellites and deep‑space missions
• Global Competitiveness: Positions ISRO alongside leading space agencies using semi‑cryogenic systems

Technical Milestones Achieved

Test Phase	Thrust Level	Key Achievements
Initial Tests	94 Tonne (47%)	Validated ignition build‑up
Mid‑Stage Tests	120 Tonne (60%)	Stable operation at higher thrust
Latest Test	175 Tonne (88%)	Turbopumps at 400–500 bar, steady state
Next Target	200 Tonne (100%)	Full engine demonstration

Broader Impact

• National Security & Economy: Enhances India’s ability to launch heavier payloads for defense, communication, and commercial satellites
• Sustainability: Cleaner fuels reduce environmental risks compared to hypergolic propellants
• Global Market: Strengthens India’s competitiveness in the international satellite launch market

This achievement is a critical step in ISRO’s roadmap toward advanced propulsion systems and expanded launch capabilities.

India’s $340B Crypto Surge Equals 9% of GDP

India saw crypto inflows worth nearly $340 billion between June 2024 and June 2025 — equal to about 9% of its GDP — making it Asia’s largest market by absolute inflows despite heavy taxation and regulatory uncertainty.

The $340 billion crypto inflows figure for India in 2025 comes from the OECD’s Asia Capital Markets Report 2026, which uses Chainalysis blockchain analytics data. Importantly, these “inflows” measure crypto received by addresses geolocated to India — they reflect transaction activity by Indian users, not actual cross‑border capital flows.

Key Highlights from OECD Report

• Total inflows: ~$340 billion in crypto assets (including stablecoins).
• GDP share: ~9% of India’s nominal GDP (~$4.15 trillion in 2025).
• Regional ranking: India led Asia in absolute inflows, followed by South Korea.
• Relative scale: Vietnam topped in GDP share (~50%), Cambodia (~28%), Pakistan (~26%).
• User base: Over 107 million Indian crypto users, despite no dedicated crypto law.

Regulatory & Tax Context

• Taxation: 30% tax on income from virtual digital assets; 1% TDS on most transactions.
• Regulatory status: No formal crypto legislation yet; Parliament scheduled discussions with RBI on July 2, 2026.
• OECD warning: Lack of clear rules poses macroeconomic risks and complicates compliance with FATF and G20 frameworks.

What “Inflows” Really Mean

• The $340B figure comes from Chainalysis inflows methodology.
• Tracks crypto received by blockchain addresses geolocated to India.
• Includes domestic trading, wallet transfers, payments, and DeFi activity.
• Note: Not balance-of-payments data — does not prove foreign capital entered India.

Comparative Snapshot

Country	Crypto inflows (2024–25)	Share of GDP
India	$340B	~9%
South Korea	Lower than India	~6–7% (est.)
Vietnam	Smaller absolute inflows	~50%
Cambodia	Smaller absolute inflows	~28%
Pakistan	Smaller absolute inflows	~26%

Risks & Implications

• Macroeconomic risk: Crypto inflows equal to bond market size — potential systemic exposure.
• Investor burden: High taxes + unclear rules discourage formal adoption.
• Policy gap: India’s leadership in inflows contrasts with lack of dedicated crypto law, raising concerns about investor protection and systemic risk.

The OECD’s finding highlights India’s massive crypto transaction volume, but it should not be mistaken for foreign capital inflows. It reflects domestic user activity and underscores the urgent need for regulatory clarity to manage risks, ensure investor protection, and align with frameworks like FATF and G20.

NSE Chief Urges Startups and MSMEs to View Listing as a Tool for Scale

Calling capital markets a key enabler of India's entrepreneurial growth story, National Stock Exchange (NSE) MD and CEO Ashish Chauhan on Friday urged startups and MSMEs to consider public listing as a strategic tool for scaling businesses. Speaking at the JITO Incubation and Innovation Foundation's (JIIF) Foundation Day event at NSE, Chauhan said, “founders should focus on building profitable, sustainable businesses rather than being distracted by short term stock price movements.

Addressing entrepreneurs, investors and startup founders at the event themed 'Compounding Bharat: Innovation Multiplied by Entrepreneurship', Chauhan said, “public markets provide growth capital, improve governance standards, enhance credibility and help companies attract top talent while allowing promoters to retain control of their businesses.”

The keynote comes days after the NSE filed its draft prospectus for one of India's largest ever public offerings, a listing nearly a decade in the making.

Chauhan said, “public listing lets founders raise growth capital without surrendering control, noting that a promoter can offer 25 per cent of equity to the market at the outset, retain 75 per cent and dilute further only as the business requires.”

"When you list, you keep 75 per cent with yourself and offer 25 per cent to the market in the beginning. You can give more later. Control stays with you," he said.

He said, “the public markets reward profitable businesses with a valuation that private balance sheets cannot match. A company earning an annual profit of Rs 2 crore, he said, could command a market capitalisation of Rs 40 to 50 crore once listed, giving the promoter room to raise capital, bring in partners and expand operations.”

Listing also gives a company its own currency, Chauhan said. “A listed promoter can use stock to acquire other businesses, draw in partners and reward staff through stock options, he said, citing the early use of employee stock options at Infosys by N R Narayana Murthy and Nandan Nilekani to attract talent the company could not otherwise have hired.”

He said, “listing strengthens governance and credibility, brings analyst coverage, eases access to bank finance and supports orderly succession by making it simpler to divide assets among heirs.” Compliance, he added, was lighter than commonly assumed and was routinely handled by a company secretary.”

Addressing the concern that listing exposes founders to hostile takeover, Chauhan said control stayed with the promoter and that no change of ownership could occur against a founder's wishes.

On share price, he cautioned founders against chasing artificial trading volumes or mistaking the stock price for the business itself.

"Your business is in your operations, not in the share price. The stock market is only a reflection of your business, it is not the business itself," he said, adding that share prices would follow sustained growth in profit and that founders should direct their energy towards operations rather than short term price movements.

“On liquidity in the small and medium enterprise segment, Chauhan said generating trading volume was not the company's responsibility and pointed to the market maker mechanism, under which two way quotes are provided for three years. Companies on NSE's SME platform, launched in 2012, had collectively raised more than Rs 21,700 crore and held a combined market capitalisation of more than Rs 2 lakh crore”, he said.

He acknowledged that SME business models carried higher risk than those of larger main board companies, but said investors in the segment understood the risk reward trade off and that well run SME companies could scale quickly.

"If you are doing a business of Rs 10 crore or Rs 20 crore, you should be planning for Rs 200 crore and beyond," he said.

JIIF chairman Jeenendra Bhandari said, " Over the last nine years, JIIF has evolved from an idea into one of the community’s most impactful entrepreneurship and innovation platforms. Over the past two years, we have successfully completed four incubation cohorts, facilitated over Rs 60 crore in startup investments, built a network of more than 20 ecosystem partners and collaborated with over 30 national and regional organisations.

Bhandari said, “the foundation had secured a Rs 5 crore MSInS grant and a Rs 2 crore SISFS grant, while its startups had achieved three full and three partial investment successes. He said initiatives such as four editions of its flagship investor engagement platforms and the launch of a 5,000 sq ft incubation centre in Mumbai continued to strengthen the innovation ecosystem.”

JITO, the Jain International Trade Organisation, is one of the world's largest networks of Jain industrialists, entrepreneurs and professionals. Its innovation and entrepreneurship arm, JIIF, has over the past nine years built a platform that has drawn leading names from across Indian business, with previous Foundation Day editions featuring founders and leaders of companies such as Paytm, Zepto, Info Edge and Haldiram's.