Left to Right : Chetan Doshi, Director TEMA, K.T Shenoy, Director BARC, Rajesh V, Director Technical NPCIL, Haresh K Sippy , CMD TEMA, Narendra Rao, Director TEMA
In a significant advancement for India’s nuclear self-reliance, Director – Technical, NPCIL, Shri Rajesh V and Director, Chemical Engineering Group, BARC, Shri K. T. Shenoy inaugurated the country’s first-of-its-kind private test facility for the upgradation of depleted heavy water, commissioned by TEMA India Ltd. This state-of-the-art facility, designed and built by TEMA India’s nuclear vertical under technology transfer from BARC and a Purchase Order from NPCIL, marks a milestone achievement being realised for the first time in the private sector. The development is firmly aligned with the Prime Minister’s Atma-Nirbhar Bharat initiative.
Until now, critical testing infrastructure for heavy water distillation components existed solely within BARC. Speaking at the event, Shri Rajesh V and Shri K. T. Shenoy commended TEMA India’s technical acumen, commitment to quality, and its growing role as a trusted partner in India’s nuclear energy program.
The dignitaries also flagged off the first validated consignment of eight Distillation Column sections, comprising activated phosphor bronze modules, critical components for Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs). These modules, having undergone rigorous in-house performance testing, are slated for deployment in key nuclear power projects: RAPP Unit 8, GHAVP Units 1–4, and KAIGA Units 5 & 6.
This initiative exemplifies the spirit of Atma-Nirbhar Bharat, which calls for greater self-reliance in high-tech, strategic sectors. By designing, manufacturing, and validating nuclear components entirely in-house, India reduces reliance on imported equipment and external test infrastructure. It also helps build domestic capability, confidence, and long-term resilience, empowering Indian firms to contribute meaningfully to national energy security goals.
The event also included a traditional pooja, tree plantation, and a ceremonial dispatch of the first module shipment, symbolising the entry of India’s private sector into advanced nuclear component validation.
This initiative represents a new era of public-private collaboration with institutions like NPCIL and BARC, where complementary strengths are harnessed to advance India’s energy future.
