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UCIL Targets Doubling Domestic Uranium Output by 2036
Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) intends to double domestic uranium production by 2036. The expansion comprises four greenfield mining projects and uranium recovery from copper mine residue beginning in 2029-30, involving Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL).
Key Facts of UCIL Domestic Uranium Output Expansion Plan:
| Dimension | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Greenfield Project | A greenfield project is developed at a new site, rather than by expanding an existing facility. |
| Aim | The plan provides for strengthening India’s domestic uranium supply for its expanding nuclear power programme and promoting a circular economy. |
| Uranium Recovery: Partner Entity | UCIL recovers uranium from residual material produced during copper mining operations conducted by Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL). |
| Uranium Recovery: Roles | HCL continues copper mining and extraction activities as usual, and UCIL processes appropriate residual material to extract uranium. |
| Uranium Recovery: Waste Handling | Any remaining waste is returned to HCL for further management. |
| Cost Aspect | The recovery process is anticipated to reduce overall mining costs, as it eliminates the need for additional mining activities. |
| UCIL Establishment | UCIL is established in 1967. |
| UCIL Headquarters | UCIL headquarters is in Jaduguda, East Singhbhum district, Jharkhand. |
| Administrative Control | UCIL is under the administrative control of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India. |
| Nature | UCIL is a Public Sector Enterprise. |
| Main Functions | UCIL main functions comprise underground and opencast uranium mining, and chemical processing of low-grade uranium ores. |
| Significance | The initiative provides for: enhancing energy security by increasing availability of domestically produced uranium; supporting growth of nuclear power by expanding India’s nuclear electricity capacity; reducing reliance on imported uranium; improving economic efficiency by extracting additional value from existing mining waste; promoting environmental benefits by encouraging resource recovery and more efficient use of mineral resources; strengthening strategic autonomy by enhancing domestic capabilities within the nuclear fuel supply chain. |