APPSC GROUP II MAINS 2024 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PAPER - II Non-Renewable and Renewable Energy: Sources and Installed Capacities in India – New Initiatives and Recent Programmes, Schemes and Achievements in India’s Renewable Energy Sector.

 Syllabus : Non-Renewable and Renewable Energy: Sources and Installed Capacities in India – New Initiatives and Recent Programmes, Schemes and Achievements in India’s Renewable Energy Sector.

RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES

 

 

India was a power deficit nation at the time of Independence. The efforts to make India energy-independent have continued for over seven decades, and today, we are a power surplus nation with a total installed electricity capacity of over four lakh Mega Watt (MW). Keeping in mind the sustainable development goals, India's power generation mix is rapidly shifting towards a more significant share of renewable energy. Today, India is the world's third largest producer of renewable energy, with about 42 per cent of our installed electricity capacity coming from non-fossil fuel sources.

Estimated renewable energy potential of India (other than large hydro) is about 1.5 million MW, of which 50 per cent is from solar, 46.7 per cent from wind, and the remaining from small-hydro, biomass and waste to energy.

 

 

 

What is Renewable Energy ?

Renewable energy sources can be defined as energy sources that are not depleted with their use. In other words, they are able to be replenished from their respective sources, such as the water resources used to generate hydroelectric power. Renewable energy, as defined by the United Nations

(UN) is energy derived from natural sources, which are replenished at a higher rate than consumed.

 

 

Common renewable energy sources include solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower, ocean, and bioenergy.

 

i)Solar energy generation utilises the sun’s energy to provide thermal energy through solar thermal systems and electrical energy through solar hotovoltaic (PV) and concentrating solar power (CSP) systems.

 

ii)Wind energy uses large wind turbines located on land (onshore) or in sea or freshwater (offshore) to capture the kinetic energy of moving air.

 

iii)Geothermal energy makes use of the accessible thermal energy from the earth’s interior.

 

iv)Hydropower utilises the potential energy of water flowing from higher to lower elevations.

 

 

v)Ocean energy is derived from technologies that utilise the kinetic and thermal energy of seawater, such as waves and currents, to generate electricity or heat.

 

vi)Bioenergy is derived from a variety of organic materials known as biomass, such as wood, charcoal, manure, and agricultural crops for liquid biofuels.

 

Clean Energy :

Renewable energy is also referred to as clean energy as it does not produce pollution, and they also have a low carbon footprint and emit fewer GHGs in comparison with conventional fossil fuels energy sources.

 

The IEA reports that in 2021, renewable energy sources contributed 28 per cent of the total energy generation worldwide, while coal was used to generate 36.3 per cent.

 

 

Furthermore, renewable energy sources are expected to account for over 90 per cent of global electricity expansion over the next five years, surpassing coal to become the largest source of global electricity by early 2025.

 

 

China, the European Union, the United States, and India are primarily responsible for the surge in the share of renewable energy sources in the next five years due to their policy responses and market reforms pertaining to green energy. The Economic Survey 2021-22 reports that renewable energy contributes to approximately 10.7 per cent of India’s power  eneration, followed by coal.

 

 

The transition from conventional to green energy has experienced the fastest rate of growth among all large economies, with renewable energy capacity increasing by 2.9 times and solar energy expandingby over 18 times.

 

 

Reneweable Energy promotion  in the Indian context :

 

To promote the use of renewable energy sources, an exclusive institution, the Department of Non-Conventional Energy Sources (DNES), was created in the Ministry of Energy in the year 1982. In 1992, the Department was upgraded into a separate Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy Sources (MNES) in 1992 and was re-named as Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in October 2006. The Ministry is being supported by five institutes, namely:

(i) National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE),

(ii) National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE);

(iii) Sardar Swarn Singh National Institute of Bio Energy (SSS-NIBE)

(iv) Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA); and

(v) Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI). This institute provides technical and R&D support to the Ministry.

 

Among them, IREDA, a Non-Banking Financial Institution under the administrative control of this Ministry, provides term loans for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.  Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, provides technical support for small hydropower development.

 

Schemes:

There are specific schemes to promote renewable energy in India. National Solar Mission is one of the most important scheme of Government of India, being implemented by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. National Solar Mission aims to increase the share of solar energy in the total energy mix. The cumulative targets under the mission for Grid Connected Solar Power Projects consist of 40 GW Grid connected Rooftop projects and 60 GW large and medium size land-based solarpower projects.

 

 The combined target is  set at 100 GW. The total investment in setting up 100 GW will be around Rs.6,00,000 crore.

 

 

The Pradhan Mantri Kishan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyaan (PM-KUSUM) is another important scheme in this regard. The scheme aims to add solar capacity of 30,800 MW by 2022. The scheme by 2026 targets to install 10,000 MW of solar capacity through small Solar Power Plants, install 20 lakh standalone Solar Powered Agriculture Pumps, and Solarise 15 Lakh Grid-connected Agriculture Pumps. The National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change is another initiative to make people aware. The scheme seeks to build a knowledge system that would inform and support national action for ecologically sustainable development.

 

What is ‘energy transition’?

Ans:

The term "energy transition" refers to the change that is taking place in the global energy sector away from fossil-based systems of energy production and consumption, such as oil, natural gas, and coal, and toward renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, as well as lithium-ion  batteries. The sun, the wind, the water, the heat of the earth, and plants are all examples of sources of energy that can be regenerated naturally and are used to produce renewable energy. At this time, we rely almost exclusively on fossil fuels to heat and power our houses as well as fuel our vehicles. The usage of coal, oil, and natural gas to fulfil our energy requirements may seem like the most practical option, but there is only a finite amount of these fuels on the planet. We are utilizing them at a rate that is far faster than they are being produced. They are eventually going to be depleted.

 

 

 

Future of the energy sector :

 

Within the next two decades, according to the reports published by the International Energy Agency, solar power is projected to see spectacular development in India, eventually equalling the amount of coal in the mix of power generation in India. At the moment, solar energy is responsible for less than 4 per cent of India's total electricity output, whereas coal is responsible for close to 70 per cent. This remarkable about-face is being driven by India's policy ambitions, most notably the target to reach

450 GW of renewable capacity by 2030.

 

Solar power, along with other forms of generation technology and energy storage, is encouraged to be combined in order to provide a "round-the-clock" supply, which is one of the driving forces behind the growth of renewable energy projects on a utility scale.

 

 

In India's power industry, the emergence of renewable energy sources has been a key success story. Wind and solar photovoltaic electricity currently account for 7 per cent of total output, which is twice as much as their proportion in 2014. In some Indian states with an abundance of renewable resources, such as solar and wind, the two resources together account for up to 15 per cent of the total electricity generation. Nevertheless, there are still major structural, legislative, and institutional impediments that might hamper further expansion, and the level of success has been variable among the many forms of renewable technology. Congestion on the grid, concerns regarding the development of grid infrastructure, and the weak financial status of many state distribution businesses are some of the challenges that need to be addressed and overcome.

 

 

The rise of residential rooftop solar has lagged behind that of utility-scale installations due to higher pricing and a scarcity of financing options that are favourable to consumers. This is owing to the fact that it is more difficult to secure financing for rooftop solar installation projects. Rooftop solar panels supplied a total energy of 40 GW toward the 100 GW total, making them the single largest contributor.

 

The annual growth rate of India's demand for electricity is 4.7 per cent, which is approximately double the pace of overall growth in the demand for energy. Because of the widespread use of home appliances, the proportion of total energy consumption that is met by electricity is expected  to increase from the current 20 per cent to approximately 50 per cent by the year 2040.

 

Electrification of India's energy infrastructure is a major factor in rising demand; power is being used more often in industries that benefit from a steady supply of low-temperature heat, and steel production is more dependent on electricity. Both of these trends are driven by significant increases in the consumption of electricity. Increased adoption of electric vehicles, particularly two-and three wheeled vehicles, makes it possible for electricity to make headway in the transportation industry.

 

Solar photovoltaic (PV) projects are now the most cost-effective technique for generating new power in India, and they are also among the most cost-effective methods worldwide. This is because solar energy has a lower cost per watt than other forms of renewable energy. However, in order to accurately evaluate the competitiveness of solar photovoltaics (PV) in India, one needs to look at a number of other factors in addition to the pricing of

the technology itself.

 

Solar Power:

According to the estimates of Ministry of  New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) 5000 trillion kwh energy is incident over India's land area every year, with most parts receiving 4-7 kWh per sq. m per day. This is converted to electrical energy through photovoltaic cells. Solar energy has many advantages among which the abundance in supply, ability to generate power on a distributed basis, and ability for capacity addition in short time leads are prominent. Ideally, only a small fraction of the total incident solar energy is required to meet the entire country’s power requirement.

 

The last decade has witnessed surge in the use of solar energy based decentralised and distributed applications. Millions of Indians are now using solar power for lighting, cooking, mobility and other energy needs. The solar power-based cooking has significantly improved the quality of life, especially of rural women and girl children, by reducing the drudgery of long haul of fuel woods and risk of lung and ailments caused by kitchen smoke. Moreover, easy access to power in remote areas have boosted economic activities and employment opportunities, and thus helped in mainstreaming the underdeveloped zones.

 

Estimates by National Institute of Solar Energy suggest that covering three per cent of the waste land area with solar photovoltaic modules can generate about 748 GW power. In 2010, Government of India launched National Solar Mission (NSM) with active participation of States to promote sustainable growth while addressing the energy security challenges. This can also contribute significantly to our effort to tackle the challenges of climate change.

 

 

Wind Power:

 

The study conducted by National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) identified seven states viz. Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh with significant potential for power generation from wind. The wind potential of these 7 seven states at 100 m above ground level (agl) is 293 GW and the potential at 120 m agl is 652 GW. The Government has been promoting wind power projects by incentivising the investments through Accelerated Depreciation Benefit, which allows an investor to claim higher rate of depreciation in wind power infrastructure than that for the general assets. The allowed rate of depreciation was 100 per cent when the scheme was first introduced in

1994 and later rationalised to 80 per cent and to 40 per cent in a phased manner. Government has also introduced waiver of Inter State Transmission System (ISTS) charges for inter-State sale of solar and wind power, for projects to be commissioned by 30 June 2025.

 

India, having a natural advantage of 7500 km long coast line, has the potential of harnessing offshore wind energy. In 2015, Government of India notified National Offshore Wind Energy Policy with the primary objective of exploring and promoting deployment of offshore wind farms in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the country, including those under Public Private Partnership. The NIWE has identified potential zones for offshore wind  energy of 36 GW and 35 GW off the coasts of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu respectively.

 

Hydro Power :

 

 

India has close to one hundred hydropower facilities, in addition to nine pumped storage installations. In 2019, it achieved 50 gigawatts of potential hydropower capacity, moving it past Japan to take fifth place on the list of the world's highest prospective hydropower capacities. However, hydropower's contribution to the overall mix of sources used to generate electricity has been steadily declining over the last few decades and now accounts for just around 10 per cent of total output. The potential for pumped storage in India is approximately 90 GW, and there are 63 sites that have been identified and recognised in national energy regulations for the significant grid services they provide.

 

Since March 2019 Government of India has been recognising Large Hydro Power Projects (LHPs) including Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs) having capacity of more than 25 MW as part of renewable energy.

 

Hydro projects with capacity less than 3 MW had already been under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy since the year 1989 and those with less than 25 MW since 1999. According to the assessment made by Central Electricity Authority (CEA), India has the potential of economically exploitable hydro-power to the tune of 1,48,700 MW. If the probable capacity of pumped storage of 94000 MW and that of about 6700 MW from small, mini and micro hydel projects are considered, India's hydro power potential will be about 2,50,000 MW. However, only less than 30 per cent of this is presently exploited despite having long life, low cost and high efficiency among many other advantages.

 

 

Bio-fuels:

 

Ethanol and biodiesel are the two most common types of biofuels in use today. Ethanol is a renewable fuel that can be made from various plant materials, collectively known as “biomass.” Government has been implementing Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme wherein the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) sell petrol blended with 10 per cent ethanol. Biodiesel is a liquid fuel produced from renewable sources, such as new and used vegetable oils and animal fats and is a cleaner-burning replacement for petroleum-based diesel fuel. Presently, biodiesel is produced from imported palm-stearin oil in the country. However, we are phasing it out by using used cooking oil as the feedstock. Since the biomass-based renewable hydrocarbon fuels are nearly identical to the petroleum-based fuels, the transition becomes easier. The National Policy on Biofuels announced

 

in 2018 is aimed at accelerated promotion of biofuels with indicative targets of achieving 20 per cent blending in Petrol and 5 per cent blending in diesel by 2030.

 

 

Green Hydrogen:

 

Hydrogen is used as an energy source in industry, mobility and thermal applications. It is produced by splitting water through electrolysis using an electric current. When the electricity used for hydrogen generation is sourced from renewable resources, that is without emitting carbon dioxide, it is called green hydrogen. Hon’ble Prime Minister has launched the National Hydrogen Mission on India’s 75th Independence Day in 2021. The Mission aims to make India a green hydrogen hub which will help in meeting the target of production of 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030 and the related development of renewable energy capacity. On 3rd January this year, National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) has commissioned India's first green hydrogen blending project in the piped natural gas (PNG) network of NTPC Kawas township, Surat, to supply H2-NG (Hydrogen -Natural Gas) to the households in the township.

 

 

Ocean energy :

 

Ocean energy refers to energy derived from Wave Energy, Tidal Energy, and Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion.

 

The technology development in these areas is at research and development stage. The estimated theoretical power potentials for Tidal and Wave energy are 12,455 MW and 41,300 MW respectively.

 

 

Geothermal energy :

Geothermal Energy is a source of heat stored in the earth’s crust, which is manifested on surface as hot springs. In India, Geological Survey of India (GSI) has estimated that a tentative power potential of 10 GW could be extracted from geothermal energy.

 

 

Renewable Power Airport :

Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has successfully turned their disadvantage of power deficit to an advantage to become the world’s first

solar powered airport. The CIAL ventured into the Solar PV sector in early 2013 by installing a 100 kWp solar PV Plant on the roof top of the arrival terminal block. Following this, one MWp solar PV power plant was installed partly on the roof top and partly on the ground in the aircraft maintenance hangar facility.

 

Inspired by the success of the above-mentioned plants, CIAL has decided to set up a larger scale 12MWp solar PV plant in 2015. As on today CIAL has an installed solar power capacity of 50 MWp. CIAL’s solar power plants generates 2.0 lakh units of power a day while the daily consumption of power in the airport is about 1.6 lakh units and thus making the airport power positive.

 

Food Security and Renewables:

 

Ensuring food security is the fundamental pre-requisite for any sort of development. After land, water and energy are the two paramount resources in ensuring food security and thereby catalysing the human centric development. Ratio of volume of ground water extracted every year to the annual ground water recharge, referred as stage of groundwater development, in the country is 61.6 per cent.

 

 

The stage of ground water extraction is very high in the states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan, where it is more than 100 per cent, which implies that in these states the annual ground water consumption is more than annual extractable ground water resources.

 

In the states of Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Union Territories (UTs) of Chandigarh and Puducherry, the stage of ground water extraction is between 60-100 per cent.

 

These trends clearly establish the huge reliance on energy by way of lifting the ground water for irrigation purpose. Moreover,

the decline of ground water table leads to the consumption of more energy every year to meet the irrigation requirements. Use of renewables

plays a major role in ensuring gains for the water energy- food nexus. For example, renewable energy based micro irrigation systems, and the

reuse of waste water treated in plants powered with renewable energy can significantly contribute to the environment, water & energy saving and in

ensuring food security.

APPSC GROUP II MAINS 2024 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PAPER - II MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY :Atomic Energy

 

Model Questions (for GS Paper )

Set No.   45    {Prepared on     7.6.2024 }

 

APPSC GROUP II  MAINS 2024

                                                                   For Study purpose only

Prepared by :Praturi Potayya Sarma,MA(OU),LLB(OU),PGDIRPM

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : ATOMIC ENERGY

 

 

1)Consider the  following :

1)It is informed on  7.2.2024   that the present installed nuclear power capacity in India  is set to increase from 7480 MW to 22800 MW by 2031-32.

2)Government is taking policy measures to generate electricity through atomic energy as well as the other sources of energy in order to promote these sources of energy.

 

3)It is said, to increase the share of nuclear power in total electricity generation in the   India , the Government has taken the  steps like:

a) it accorded administrative approval and financial sanction to set up ten (10) indigenous 700 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) in fleet mode,

b)Creation of Indian Nuclear Insurance Pool (INIP) for implementation of Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act,

c)Amendment of the Atomic Energy Act to enable Joint Ventures of Public Sector Companies to set up nuclear power projects and Entering into agreements with foreign countries for nuclear power cooperation including supply of fuel.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3

Ans : d

 

 

 

2)Consider the following about Thorium as fuel in nuclear power reactors :

 

1)Nuclear power employing closed fuel cycle is the credible and sustainable option for meeting a major part of the world energy demand.

2)World resources of thorium are larger than those of uranium.

3)Thorium, therefore is, widely viewed as the 'fuel of the future'.

4)The Indian Nuclear Power Programme Stage-3 aims at using thorium as fuel for power generation on a commercial scale.

5)In the thorium fuel cycle, Thorium-232 is transmuted into the fissile isotope Uranium-233 which is a nuclear fuel.

6)A special purpose 30 KW research reactor, named KAMINI and located at IGCAR,Kalpakkam, Tamilnadu,  is in operation, which has the distinction of being only 233 reactor in world presently operating with U fuel.

7)As a part of this programme, India has been developing a 300 MWe Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR). Fuelled by thorium and using light water as coolant and heavy water as moderator, this reactor will have several advanced passive safety features.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,4,5,6 and 7

Ans : d

 

 

3)Consider the following about PHWR reactors :

1)Currently NPCIL is constructing eight Reactors (6800 MW) comprising of Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP) Unit-3&4 (2x700 MW, PHWRs), Rajasthan Atomic Power Project (RAPP) Unit7&8(2x700 MW, PHWRs), Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP) Unit-3&4 (2 x 1000 MW, LWRs) and KKNPP Unit-5&6 (2 x 1000 MW, LWRs) which are under various stages of construction.

2)Out of these project units, KAPP Unit-3,which is first unit of indigenously designed 700 MW PHWR with state of-the-art technology and enhanced safety features, was synchronized with the Grid for the first  time in 2021. The unit has operated at 50% Full Power for collecting further commissioning feedbacks for improvement. Preparatory activities for further power raise with progressive clearances from AERB are in progress.

3)Construction of various buildings is in progress at GHAVP-1&2 and casting of all foundation piles has been completed in both the Nuclear Building (NB) areas. Activities towards obtaining regulatory clearance for casting of nuclear building raft are in advanced stage. Further, various project activities are in different stages and are being accelerated towards commencement of construction of Ten 700 MW PHWRs (10 x 700 MW) in fleet mode for which administrative approval and financial sanction from government have already been accorded.

4)Fleet mode ground activity commenced with 'Ground Break' of Kaiga Project Unit-5&6 (In Karnataka) on April 28, 2022 after obtaining AERB clearance. Excavation works at this project are in progress. In respect of remaining reactors of Ten 700 MW PHWRs in fleet mode, various pre-project activities such as land acquisition and R&R, Environmental clearance, procurement activities of long delivery equipment, studies for regulatory clearances, site infrastructure development, public outreach, tendering for various contracts/ packages are in various stages of progress towards launching of these projects.

5)Further, in respect of new sites at Jaitapur in Maharashtra (Land Acquisition and Environment Clearance are completed) and Kovvada in Andhra Pradesh, various Pre-project activities related to land acquisition, R&R, environmental studies, Site Studies, Site infrastructure development, regulatory clearances, public outreach etc. and various techno commercial discussions for setting up large sized imported light water reactors (LWRs) based on international cooperation are in progress.

6)In respect of Bhimpur site in Madhya Pradesh, commitment for water is to be confirmed by State Government.

 7)In respect of Mithi Virdi site in Gujarat, land acquisition process is to be reinitiated as per new land acquisition Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (RFCTLARR) Act 2013. In respect of Haripur site in West Bengal, land acquisition is contingent to initiative by State Government. Alternate site is also under consideration by Government

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,4,5,6 and 7

Ans : d

 

 

4)Consider the following  about GHAVP :

 

1)For Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidyut Pariyojana (GHAVP) Unit-1&2 (2X700 MW PHWRs), Casting of all foundation piles has been completed in both the Nuclear Building areas and activities towards obtaining regulatory clearance for casting of nuclear building raft are in progress.

2)Construction of Switch Yard Control Building, D2O Upgradation Plant, Fire and Industrial Safety House, Fire Water Pump House etc., is in progress. Manufacturing and supply of equipment and components are in progress. Two End Shields and four Steam Generators have been received at site and are under suitable preservation. Design activities are in progress in respect of various packages like Nuclear Island packages, IDCTs etc.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 only

(b)2  only

( c ) Both 1 and  2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans : c

 

 

4) Consider the following :

1)For Ten 700 MW PHWRs in Fleet Mode, the Government has accorded administrative approval and financial sanction for taking up construction of 10 indigenous 700MW PHWRs in Fleet Mode. These reactors are being set up at

a)Kaiga in Karnataka (Kaiga-5&6),

b)Gorakhpur in Haryana (GHAVP3&4),

c)Chutka in Madhya Pradesh (Chutka-1&2)

d)Mahi Banswara in Rajasthan (Mahi Banswara-1 to 4).

2)Various pre-project activities are in progress at these sites towards launching of the projects. Fleet mode ground work commenced with 'Ground Break' of Kaiga5&6 project on 28th April, 2022 after obtaining AERB clearance. At GHAVP Unit-3&4, land is available, MoEFCC Clearance exists and siting consent from AERB is received. At Mahi Banswara, land acquisition is in advanced stage and MoEFCC Clearance is under process.

3)At Chutka, land Possession letter has been issued for all types of land and MoEFCC Clearance is available.

4) Proceedings for implementation of the projects at Mahi Banswara and Chutka sites by NPCILNTPC JV Company are in progress.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3 and 4

Ans : d

 

5)Consider the following :

1)Nuclear power employing closed fuel cycle is the only sustainable option for meeting a major part of the world energy demand. World resources of thorium are larger than those of uranium. Thorium, therefore is, widely viewed as the 'fuel of the future'. The Indian Nuclear Power Programme Stage-3 aims at using thorium as fuel for power generation on a commercial scale.

2)The U-233 based Kalpakkam Mini Reactor (KAMINI) at Kalpakkam ,Tamilnadu  was available for neutron activation analysis, neutron radiography and testing of indigenously developed neutron detectors. This research reactor has been utilized by many units  and institutions for irradiation of various samples, testing and calibration requirements.

3)The U-233 based Kalpakkam Mini Reactor (KAMINI) was available for neutron activation analysis, neutron radiography and testing of indigenously developed neutron detectors. De-bonding of fuel plates in some of the fuel subassemblies was observed during inspection in October 2021. Presence of any solid fission products in reactor water has not been noticed so far. Reactor operation was resumed in January 2022 with 3 gas leaker fuel subassemblies in the core after obtaining regulatory clearance

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3

Ans : d

 

 

 

6)Consider the following :

1)Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR), the flagship of IGCAR is continuing its objectives as a test bed for irradiation of fuel & structural materials in fast neutron flux and a training hub for fast reactor operators.

2)In the 37 years of operation so far, 30 irradiation campaigns have been successfully completed and 31st campaign is in progress. Since FBTR engineering systems are designed for 40 MWt, there was a constant urge in increasing the FBTR Power to 40 MWt, which would provide an experience in testing the systems at design power. A modified core with 69 MK-I FSAs (Fuel SubAssemblies), one IFZ (Special experimental) Test SA at 10 center and four poison SAs with 50% B in second ring was chosen and with this modied core conguration, FBTR power was raised to 40 MWt on 7th March 2022 for the first time and operated for 45 Effective Full Power Days (EFPD). Turbo Generator was in operation throughout the campaign producing ~10 MWe.

3)Presently the 31st campaign with 40 MWt and Turbo Generator connected to grid, producing ~10 MWe is under progress and is expected to complete cumulative campaign duration of 100 days by this year end.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3

Ans : d

 

7)Consider the following :

1)For the second stage of the Nuclear Power Generation Programme, the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR)at Kalpakklam. Tamilnadu  is pursuing development of sodium cooled fast breeder reactors and associated fuel cycle technologies.

2)Breeder reactors produce more fuel than they consume.

3)The Fast Reactor Programme of IGCAR is supported by its research and development endeavour in a range of disciplines such as reactor engineering, metallurgy, materials science, instrumentation, safety, and others.

4)The Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR), operating at Kalpakkam for over 25 years, also caters to technology development related to fast reactor.

5) Based on the fast breeder reactor technology developed by IGCAR, a 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) is coming up at Kalpakkam. The project is being executed by the Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), a public sector undertaking of DAE. BARC contributes to the research & development and manufacture of fuels for fast reactors, technology for reprocessing of fuels, waste management and health and safety of the work force. NFC is entrusted with the responsibility of fabrication of core subassemblies for Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR) and 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR).

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,4 and 5

Ans : d

 

8) Consider the following about PFBR :

1)Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamilnadu  is a 500 MWe (1250 MWt) liquid sodium cooled, pool type reactor using mixed oxide of uranium and plutonium as fuel.

2)The plant is located 500 m south of the existing Madras Atomic Power Station. After completion of construction, manufacture & erection of all the systems / components of PFBR, commissioning of the individual system and the integrated commissioning are in progress. The major activities that have been completed during the reporting includes Integrated Leak Rate Test of Reactor Containment Building using superimposition method; High temperature testing (~120 deg C) of In-Service Inspection (DISHA) vehicle at Site Assembly Shop followed by in-pile testing on dissimilar weld joint at ambient temperature; Independent Verication & Validation of systems required sodium filling in Main Vessel; Commissioning works of Fuel Handling equipment.

3)IGCAR is continuing to provide necessary support for the 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR). The reactor is in advanced stage of integrated commissioning

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3

Ans : d

 

9)Consider the following about Research reactors :

1)Operation of Apsara-U at rated power of 2 MW was demonstrated successfully. The reactor operated with an Availability Factor (AF) of 52.7 % during the year. Silicon wafers of 100 mm diameter were irradiated at the immediate vicinity of reactor core for development of silicon-based radiation detectors as part of feasibility study for neutron transmutation doping of silicon in Apsara-U reactor. The setup for irradiation of silicon ingot is expected to be commissioned by March 2023.

2) Dhruva was operated with an Availability Factor (AF) of 73.2% during the calendar year 2022. Isotope production in Dhruva was continued and 510 radioisotope cans were irradiated and delivered successfully.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1  only

(b)2  only

( c ) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans : c

 

 

 

10)Consider the following about PHWRs at Bhimpur:

1)Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) Bhimpur, Madhya Pradesh:

2)Commitment for water is to be confirmed by State Government.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1  only

(b)2  only

( c ) Both 1 and  2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans : c

 

 

11) Consider the following  about Light Water Reactors (LWRs) Projects :

1)Light Water Reactor (LWR) Projects Jaitapur, Maharashtra: Land has been acquired. Statutory clearances are available. Techno-commercial discussions with Électricité de France (EDF), France are in progress.

2)Kovvada, Andhra Pradesh: Land acquisition process is in progress. Techno-Commercial discussions with Westinghouse Electric Company (WEC) are in progress.

 

 3)Mithi Virdi, Gujarat: Land is to be acquired as per the new RFCTLARR Act 2013.

4)Haripur, West Bengal: Land acquisition is contingent to initiative by State Government.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3 and 4

Ans : d

 

 

 

 

 

 

12)Consider the following :

1)Phase behaviour and thermophysical properties of UO based cermet dispersion nuclear fuels 2 have been evaluated over 298 K to 773 K and the effect of prolonged annealing on heat transport behaviour of the fuel has been delineated.

2) MSBR: High temperature thermophysical properties of fluoride-based fuel salt for Molten Salt Breeder Reactor (MSBR) application, and ZrO -based inter matrix fuel hosts and rare earth 2 phosphate-based waste hosts were evaluated over 298 K to 1473 K. Indigenous experimental facility has been set-up for decarburization of heavy metals and metal decarburization was demonstrated at lab-scale. For alkaline dissolution of uranium-aluminum intermetallic fuels, process parameters were optimized at lab-scale to achieve rapid dissolution within the permissible range of temperature of the dissolution system.

3)Large numbers of Poly Crystalline Diamond (PCD) lms were synthesized using plasma CVD route and PCD-based alpha detectors (10 nos.) were fabricated and tested in air / liquid medium. A special substrate holder was designed to provide steep radial temperature gradient over 2-inch diameter silicon substrate. Using this substrate assembly, thick PCD films (> 500 mm) consisting of highly oriented (100) large diamond crystallites (sub-millimetre) were synthesized for the first time.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3

Ans : d

 

 

 

13)Consider the following :

1)The second stage of the nuclear power generation programme is geared towards setting up of fast breeder reactors. These reactors produce more fuel than what they consume. The DAE organisations that are involved in the implementation of the Fast Reactor Programme are the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Bhartiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd. (Bhavini) and Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).

2) IGCAR is engaged in the design and development of liquid sodium cooled fast breeder reactors, with associated fuel cycle technologies. This programme is supported by a strong research and development endeavour of IGCAR in disciplines such as reactor engineering chemistry, metallurgy, material science safety and instrumentation.

3)BHAVINI, a public sector company of DAE, was incorporated on 22nd October, 2003 at Chennai, Tamil Nadu, as a Special Purpose Vehicle, for implementing India's first prototype 500 MW Fast Breeder Reactor project. BARC contributes towards the research and development of fuels for fast reactors, technology for reprocessing of fuel elements, waste management and health and safety of the work force.

4) NFC is entrusted with the responsibility of fabrication of core subassemblies for Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR) and 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR).

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3 and 4

Ans : d

 

14)Consider the following :

1)Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR), the flagship of IGCAR is continuing its objectives as a test bed for irradiation of fuel & structural materials in fast neutron flux and a training hub for fast reactor operators. In the 37 years of operation so far, 30 irradiation campaigns have been successfully completed and 31st campaign is in progress. In 2022, for raising the reactor power to rated power of 40MWt, preparatory works viz., normalization of 3 blanked tubes in each of the four SG modules, refurbishing of the main cooling tower and introduction of new reactor trip parameter based on high reactor inlet temperature were completed.

2)The MOX & MARK-II fuels were removed from FBTR Core and the core was modifed with addition of four poison subassemblies (B10 enriched to 50%) to overcome the reduction of shutdown margin (SDM). Introduction of poison subassemblies also helped in flattening the neutron flux in the core, thereby increasing the thermal power from core peripheral fuel subassemblies.

3)The 40MWt core consists of 69 MK-I fuel subassemblies, one special experimental fuel subassembly (IFZ100) in center location for high dose irradiation, two special steel subassemblies in first ring for test irradiation of metal fuel pins and four poison subassemblies in the second ring. The core also contains special steel SA containing yttria capsule for production of Strontium-89 and few special steel subassemblies for material irradiation in the core periphery.

4)With the modifed core configuration, FBTR power was raised to 40 MWt on 7th March 2022 for the first time in the 30th irradiation campaign and operated for 45 Effective Full Power Days (EFPD). Turbo Generator was in operation throughout the campaign producing ~10 MWe. 30th Irradiation campaign was completed on 7th May 2022. After obtaining regulatory clearance, the 31st irradiation campaign was commenced and reactor is operating at 40 MWt presently with Turbo Generator connected to grid and expected to complete cumulative campaign duration of 100 days during this year end. It is planned to commence 32nd irradiation campaign in the beginning of year 2023 after carrying out mandatory surveillance tests and maintenance works.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3 and 4

Ans : d

 

 

15)Consider the following :

1)Government  accorded administrative approval and financial sanction for setting up of 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, in September, 2003.

2)Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), a Government Company was established on 22nd October 2003 at Chennai, Tamil Nadu, as a Special Purpose Vehicle, for implementing the India's first Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) project. The major activities that have been completed during the reporting period and the plan ahead for the current financial year are mentioned below. Reactor Containment Building Integrated Leak Rate Test using Super imposition method was carried out and integrity of containment structure was demonstrated. As a part of Fuel Handling commissioning activities, manual entry was made into the hot pool to carryout visual inspection during Transfer Arm operation to ensure that all design intends are met and also to inspect other core handling components. During the trial operations of lifting the selected Dummy SubAssemblies (DSA) with Transfer Arm from the Grid Platesleeve, few DSAs experienced higher extraction force.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1  only

(b)2  only

( c ) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans : c

 

 

 

 

16)Consider the following :

1)Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has continued to deliver on its mandate of producing nuclear power, capacity building for nuclear power, creation and operation of research reactors and particle accelerators for radio-isotope and radio-pharmaceutical production, application of radiation technology solutions to address societal issues in areas of health care, food security, water & waste management. 2)The Department also contributes towards National Security.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1  only

(b)2  only

( c ) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans : c

 

17)Consider the following about achievements  in Nuclear Power Programme :

1)AMD has made sustained exploration efforts and augmented additional Uranium Oxide reserves to cater to the nuclear power programme of the country.

2)At NFC, indigenous development of Tungsten Copper composite material has resulted in reducing the costs by about 67% on the imported cost giving an annual saving of ₹ 2 Crore. For the first time in India, NFC has indigenously developed Inconel 740 H tubing for Advanced Ultra Super Critical (AUSC) applications. This technology will help power plants burn less coal for electricity production while reducing carbon dioxide emissions. In addition, NFC has been successfully fulfilling all the requirements of our domestic nuclear power reactors with respect to the fabrication of fuel and core structurals.

3)KAPP - 3, the first indigenous 700 MW PHWR at Gujarat, has started full power commercial power production on 31^st August and with this, the installed capacity of our nuclear power plants has reached 7480 MW. KAPP- 4 attained criticality on 17^th December 2023 which is the first step for commercial operation of the plant.

4)Towards the realization of the 2^nd stage of our nuclear power program, significant developments have happened over the last one year. The filling of the Main Vessel of PFBR of BHAVINI with about 1,150 tonnes of liquid Sodium has been completed in a record time of 5 days in the month of August 2023.  All the indigenously manufactured Primary and Secondary sodium pumps have been put in service successfully and integrated commissioning of the plant is in an advanced stage.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3 and 4

Ans : d

 

 

18)Consider the following about peaceful uses of atomic energy :

 

1)Several new radiopharmaceuticals for diagnosis and treatment of various types of cancer have been developed and made commercially available.

2)Medical grade H₂O₁₈ of 95.5% I.P. has been successfully produced and validated, paving the path for India’s self-reliance and giving a boost to healthcare industry.

3)The Fission Molybdenum-99 Plant was dedicated to the nation by the Prime Minister on the 25^th anniversary of National Technology Day on 11^th May 2023. This makes India one of the few countries in the world producing fission Moly-99 today. The Molybdenum-99 produced at this plant will not only fulfil our domestic demand but will allow us to export the same to neighbouring countries.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3

Ans : d

 

 

 

19)Consider the following:

1)Production of Rare Earth Permanent Magnets has been started in the country by IREL at the BARC Campus, Vizag. This facility was also dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister on the occasion of ‘National Technology Day’. IREL has started commercial production of Co-Sm permanent magnet at Vizag.

2)AMD has augmented the resources of Rare Earth Element Oxides in various regions in Gujarat and Rajasthan. With this, the augmented Niobium Oxide reserves now amount to about 1,24,000 tonnes and 4000 tonnes respectively.

3)HWB has exported Heavy Water to Japan, South Korea and USA for non-nuclear applications and around 220 MT of HW export orders are under approval process. HWB is gearing up to support the upcoming demand of Deuterium, Heavy Water and Deuterium Depleted Water for non-nuclear applications.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3

Ans : d

 

 

 

20)Consider the following about peaceful uses of atomic energy:

1)Six Trombay crop varieties have been Gazette notified for commercial cultivation which includes one variety each of sorghum, mung bean & black gram for Karnataka, one sorghum variety for Maharashtra & two Urad bean varieties for Madhya Pradesh.

2)A low-temperature Irradiator using Co-60 radiation source has been developed and commissioned to irradiate marine products at low and sub-zero temperature.

3)About 2,400 kCi Co-60 source has been exported for gamma irradiation applications in Radiation Processing Plants across the globe, including South Asian countries like Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and also to UK. This is besides fulfilling the domestic requirement of 4.3 MCi of Co-60 source. Our exports cater to about 7% of the global requirement

4)India exported more than 2,500 MT of mangoes by sea route which is a significant quantity in comparison with 1,048 MT of average annual exports in the last 5 years. These mangoes were treated by radiation along with an associated processing protocol for increasing the shelf-life. This has helped shipment by sea instead of air route and thus, has reduced the transportation costs drastically.

5)Four food irradiation facilities were involved in this process as per the SOP developed by BARC. Radiation-processed mangoes were exported to majorly four major countries – the USA, Australia, South Africa and Malaysia.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,4 and 5

Ans : d

 

 

 

21)Consider the following about peaceful uses of atomic energy :

1)Electron Beam Sterilization of more than 1.2 million Risk Class-B medical devices have been performed using 10 MeV, 6 kW linear accelerator (at RRCAT,Indore), which were earlier required to be taken abroad for sterilisation.

2)Water purification technologies have been deployed in 116 villages of India.

3)Advance Effluent Water Treatment Plant based on ozonation technology was commissioned with 750 LPH capacity at ONGC Mehsana for field demonstration to treat oil contaminated effluent water and make it suitable for agricultural use in rain parched adjoining area.

4)Three numbers of hybrid-granular Sequencing Batch Reactor (hgSBR) technology-based Sewage Treatment Plants with capacity ranging from 50 to 150 kLD have been operationalized at Surat, Shirdi and Tiruchirapalli for treating municipal waste water. Ten more private companies have entered into agreement during the year for commercialization of the same patented technology.

5)M/s Tata Motors have developed the first 20 ft Liquid nitrogen based refrigerated container integrated on Tata’s commercial vehicle based on Liquid Nitrogen based cooling ‘SHIVAY’ Technology developed at RRCAT. This is a patented technology of DAE which was shared with M/s Tata Motors Ltd. Based on this technology, M/s Tata Motors has developed India’s first 20 ft refrigerated truck (Volume: 30 m³) which has been successfully tested by RRCAT,Indore.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,4 and 5

Ans : d

 

 

 

22)Consider the following :

 

1)The indigenously developed cyber security solution by BARC Secure Network Access System, has been deployed successfully in prestigious organizations like Indian Space Research Organisation, Defence Research & Development Organisation and Ministry of Home Affairs. The technology is now available for transfer.

2)The X-Band RF Seeker, developed jointly by BARC, ECIL and DRDO, enhances the efficiency of precision strike missiles. After captive flights and trials, the missile with the indigenous Seeker was successfully tested from sea platform in April 2023.

3)At RRCAT, Undulator based X-ray Magnetic Circular Dichroism (XMCD) Beamline (BL-20) has been commissioned in Feb. 2023 at Indus-2. This is the first beamline of its kind in the country.

4)Low Energy High Intensity Proton Accelerator (LEHIPA), designed indigenously and manufactured by Indian industry, has been operated successfully at BARC to demonstrate acceleration to rated energy of 20 MeV on 4^th August 2023.

5)IPR has set up a dedicated state-of-the-art test facility, ITER-India Gyrotron Test Facility, for demonstration of 1 MW RF Power at 170 GHz for 1000 sec with an RF efficiency of 50%. Such a facility, the only one of its kind in India, fulfils the requirements of ITER testing.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,4 and 5

Ans : d

 

 

23)Consider the following :

 

1)Based on high-quality publications in Journals, the Nature Index published in May 2023 has placed HBNI in the first position with regard to publications in physical sciences and the third position among all institutions in India.

2)Apart from the regular detection of gamma-ray signals from the standard candle Crab Nebula and other potential sources, MACE (Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment) telescope has detected very high energy photons from the radio galaxy NGC 1275 during its recent historical giant gamma-ray flares happened during December 2022 - January 2023. This is the first ever result from the MACE telescope which is well recognized and cited by the international community.

3)CEBS has created gold nanoparticles that can effectively deliver therapeutic molecules from medicinal herbs such as Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and garlic to cancer cells. These nanoparticles were found to be more effective than the extract of each herb.

4)As part of a project sanctioned by Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, a new Ni-base super-alloy for use in boilers operating at high temperatures has been indigenously manufactured through a multi-organisation collaborative effort involving IGCAR, MIDHANI and NFC.

6)For the first time, data from an Indian telescope, the upgraded GMRT of NCRA-TIFR has been used for probing low-frequency gravitational waves, an astrophysically rich window in the gravitational wave spectrum

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,,4,5 and 6

Ans : d

 

 

 

24)Consider the following :

1)For the Chandrayaan Mission, ECIL has supplied the 32-meter-Deep Space Network antenna built indigenously in association with BARC and ISTRAC. The antennae facilitated the vital communication support for Chandrayaan mission.

2)The URSC ISRO utilized TIFR balloons with special shapes for testing of the reflector deployment mechanism for the Chandrayaan-3 Lander and Rover mechanisms.

3)For the Aditya mission, the indigenous 18-meter antenna set up by ECIL in association with BARC and ISRO at Bylalu village, near Bengaluru plays a significant role in the communication system of Aditya mission

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3

Ans : d

 

 

25)Consider the following :

 

1)The Government has initiated steps to increase the nuclear power capacity from 7480 MW to 22480 MW by 2031-32, Union Minister said

2)The annual electricity generation from nuclear power plants has increased from 35334 Million Units (including infirm) in 2013-14 to 46982 Million Units (including infirm) in 2022-23. The installed nuclear power capacity in 2013-14 has also increased from 4780 MW to 7480 MW at present.

3)It is  said that the electricity generation from nuclear power plants in the current year 2023-24 (up to November 2023) is about 32017 Million Units against the aspirational MoU target of 52340 Million Units for the year.

4)At present(up to November 2023)  23 nuclear power reactors are installed, he said. The total electricity generated from nuclear power plants during the last ten years (2013-14 to 2022-23) was about 411 BUs averting release of about 353 Million Tons of CO2 equivalent to the environment.

5)It is  said that  construction and commission of ten reactors totalling 8000 MW is underway in the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh. In addition, pre-project activities in respect of ten reactors accorded sanction by the Government has been initiated. These are scheduled for progressive completion by 2031-32. The Government has accorded in-principle approval to set up 6 x 1208 MW nuclear power plant in cooperation with the USA at Kovvada in Srikakulam district in the state of Andhra Pradesh, he said.

6)It is said that nuclear power generation in the country continued to demonstrate excellent safety in the last 10 years. Performance landmarks like completion of 50 years of operation of TAPS 1&2 (presently oldest reactors in the world), setting of world record in continuous operation by KGS-1 of 962 days were achieved in the last 10 years.

7)It is  said that  Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has taken steps to ensure completion of plant shutdown of operating reactors as per schedule and early start of generation from new units and also avoiding of any unplanned shutdown to meet the target. PFBR is undergoing integrated commissioning. Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI) has set milestones against set timeline to reach the target.

8)It is  said that close coordination is maintained with the State Governments during all phases of the construction and subsequent operations of the Nuclear Power Plants.

9)It is said that Nuclear Power is a clean and environment friendly base load source of electricity generation, which is available 24X7. It has huge potential and can provide the country long term energy security in a sustainable manner. Expansion of nuclear power capacity will help in the country’s energy transition for meeting the goal of a net zero economy by 2070.  

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,,4,5,6,7,8 and 9

Ans : d

 

 

 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

26)Consider the following about India’s three stage  nuclear power programme :

1)The importance of nuclear energy, as a sustainable energy resource for our country, was recognised at the very inception of our atomic energy programme in the 1950s.

2)A three-stage nuclear power programme, based on a closed nuclear fuel cycle, was then chalked out. This was envisaged by linking the fuel cycle of Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) in the first stage, Fast Breeder Reactors (FBR) in the second stage and self-sustaining 232Th–233U reactor systems in the third stage for judicious utilization of India’s moderate uranium and vast thorium reserves.

3)India is poised for rapid growth in nuclear power capacity which is essential for meeting the demand for clean energy with practically zero carbon footprint.

4)Indigenisation of the design and the complete nuclear fuel cycle has provided technological self-sufficiency in the strategically vital areas of high-tech manufacture and construction, along with the development of a huge pool of highly skilled human resources.

5) Nuclear power provides a reliable source of clean energy to meet the stable base load requirements and, in combination with renewable sources being increasingly deployed, it can meet the challenging national targets to combat climate change.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,,4 and 5

Ans : d

 

 

27)Consider the following about  DHRUVA research reactor :

 

 

1)DHRUVA is a 100 MWth Research Reactor using natural uranium metal fuel and heavy water as both moderator and coolant which provides high neutron flux for advanced research in basic sciences and engineering. “Dhruva”, a truly indigenous reactor, Construction of Dhruva was an important milestone towards development and implementation of indigenous nuclear reactor technology in India. Dhruva is an example of a viable system, engineered within the limited means available.

2)Dhruva Reactor is an outstanding example of what Indian science, engineering and industry can achieve when compelled to rise to the occasion.

3) Dhruva is a major source of radioisotopes being used in the production of radiopharmaceuticals for health care, water resource development and management using isotope hydrology, nuclear agriculture and food processing, and in the industry for imaging, nondestructive testing and evaluation, etc. 4)Refurbishment activities of Dhruva reactor are being planned to continue its operation till 2045

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3 and 4

Ans : d

 

 

 

28)Consider the following :

1)Terming the India-U.S. nuclear cooperation envisaged under the nuclear deal two decades ago as “an important piece of unfinished business”, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources Geoffrey R. Pyatt said that there is a “shared interest” to figure out how the two countries can move forward, both on the large traditional reactors which were foreseen as part of the nuclear deal but also importantly the “fantastic new opportunities” that are emerging around Small and Modular Reactor (SMR) technology.

2)Elaborating on the civil nuclear cooperation, Mr. Pyatt referred to the conversations he had in India, especially at the India-U.S. Forum and said he found strong interest from Indian companies, including Adani, Tata, Reliance, Birla, all of whom have expressed interest in using SMRs as part of their larger decarbonisation strategy.

3)“Now to move forward on that a couple of things have to happen. One is our companies in the U.S., companies in India, companies elsewhere have to figure out how to scale these SMR concepts to take the designs that have been developed and get them to the stage of regulatory approval and industrial deployment. But the other thing that will have to happen in India is a revision of law to enable private companies to participate in the civil nuclear sector as private utilities do here in the U.S. So, this is going to take time, but it’s a natural area of convergence,” he said in response to a question  while addressing a virtual press conference.

 

4)Indian regulations have held up the Indo-U.S. nuclear deal between Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and Westinghouse Electric Company (WEC) for the construction of six nuclear reactors in Kovvada, Andhra Pradesh, eight years after Modi-Obama announced the nuclear deal is done, and worked a way around the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010.

5)Mr. Pyatt, who is familiar with India, having served in the U.S. Embassy here, said what was driven home for him by the “really good” discussions at the India-U.S. Forum is “how much we have delivered in terms of our strategic cooperation across the broad range of U.S.-India equities.”

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,4,5

Ans : d

 

 

 

 

=================================================================== 

 

29)Consider the following about  PFBR :

 

 

1)An occasion is arranged on   4.3.2024 to witness the initiation of the core loading of India’s indigenous 500 Mwe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) in the nuclear complex at Kalpakkam, about 70 km south of Chennai.

2)The initiation of the core loading of PFBR, developed by BHAVINI (Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited), would mark a “historic milestone in India’s nuclear power programme”.

3)The  PFBR reactor core consists of control sub-assemblies, blanket sub-assemblies and fuel sub-assemblies. The core loading activity would include the loading of the reactor control sub-assemblies, blanket sub-assemblies and fuel sub-assemblies that would generate power.

4)PFBR marks the second stage of the three-stage nuclear power programme of the country with a “closed fuel cycle”, and the spent fuel from the first stage would be “reprocessed and used as fuel” in FBR.

5)“A unique feature of this sodium cooled PFBR is that it can produce more fuel than it consumes, thus helping in achieving self-reliance in fuel supply for future fast reactors.”

6)With “minimised nuclear waste” generated from the reactor and advanced safety features, the FBRs would provide a safe, efficient and clean source of energy and contribute to the goal of net zero.

7)“This is an important step for India towards thorium utilisation in the third stage of the nuclear power programme. Once commissioned, India will be the second country after Russia to have a commercial operating Fast Reactor.”

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,,4,5,6 and 7

Ans : d

 

 

===========================================================  

30)Consider the following :

1)In a historic milestone marking entry into the vital second stage of India’s three stage nuclear program, Prime Minister,  witnessed the  commencement of “Core Loading” at India’s first indigenous Fast Breeder Reactor (500 MWe) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu.

2)The Hon’ble Prime Minister took a tour of the Reactor Vault and the Control Room of the Reactor. He was briefed about the salient features of this reactor. 

3)India has developed comprehensive capabilities spanning the entire spectrum of the nuclear fuel cycle. Government had approved in 2003, the creation of Bhartiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI) to construct and operate India’s most advanced nuclear reactor-Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR).

4)In line with the true spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, PFBR has been fully designed and constructed indigenously by BHAVINI with significant contribution from more than 200 Indian industries including MSMEs.  Once commissioned, India will only be the second country after Russia to have commercial operating Fast Breeder Reactor.

5)The Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) will initially use the Uranium-Plutonium Mixed Oxide (MOX) fuel. The Uranium-238 “blanket” surrounding the fuel core will undergo nuclear transmutation to produce more fuel, thus earning the name ‘Breeder’. The use of Throium-232, which in itself is not a fissile material, as a blanket is also envisaged in this stage. By transmutation, Thorium will create fissile Uranium-233 which will be used as fuel in the third stage. FBR is thus a stepping stone for the third stage of the program paving the way for the eventual full utilization of India’s abundant thorium reserves.

6)In terms of safety, the PFBR is an advanced third generation reactor with inherent passive safety features ensuring a prompt and safe shut down of the plant in the event of an emergency.  Since it uses the spent fuel from the first stage, FBR also offers great advantage in terms of significant reduction in nuclear waste generated, thereby avoiding the need for large geological disposal facilities.

7)Upon completion of the core loading, the first approach to criticality will be achieved, leading to generation of power subsequently.

8)Notably, despite the advanced technology involved, both the capital cost and the per unit electricity cost is comparable to other nuclear and conventional power plants.

9)The growth of the Indian nuclear power program is imperative to meet the twin goals of energy security and sustainable development. As a responsible nuclear power with advanced technology, India remains committed to expand peaceful applications of nuclear technology, both in power and non-power sector, while ensuring the security of nuclear and radiological materials.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3,,4,5 and 6

Ans : d

 

 

 

 

=================================================================== 

 

31)Consider the following  about PFBR reactor :

1)India has developed comprehensive capabilities spanning the entire spectrum of the nuclear fuel cycle.

2)The government had approved in 2003 the creation of Bhartiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd. (BHAVINI) to operate India’s most advanced nuclear reactor-Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR), said a statement.

3)The PFBR has been fully designed and constructed indigenously by BHAVINI with contributions from 200 Indian industries.

4)Once commissioned, India will be the second country after Russia to have commercial operating Fast Breeder Reactor.

Which of the following is correct?

(a)1 and 2 only

(b)2 and 3 only

( c ) 3 only

(d) 1,2,3 and 4

Ans : d