IAEA Chief Discusses India’s Nuclear Energy Goals at WEF 2026

The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, met with India’s Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, on January 23, 2026, during the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos. Their discussions centered on India’s ambitious plans to expand nuclear energy as part of its clean energy strategy, aiming to address the increasing energy demands and achieve decarbonization goals.

In a post on the social media platform X, Grossi emphasized the significance of India’s nuclear energy initiatives. He stated, “India is moving ahead with ambitious plans to expand nuclear energy as a way to deliver clean, reliable power for its growing needs.” He also remarked that the IAEA is prepared to support India’s civil nuclear program as it progresses.

Joshi elaborated on the meeting’s focus, highlighting the various collaborative aspects of their discussion. He noted that they explored how nuclear energy can play a pivotal role within a diversified low-carbon energy framework. In his own post on X, Joshi stated, “Engaged in a discussion with Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General, @iaeaorg on strengthening cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy.”

He introduced the SHANTI Bill, which aims to enhance India’s energy reliability by integrating nuclear power with the rapidly growing renewable energy sector. India projects a long-term vision of achieving 100 GW of nuclear energy, which will be crucial as the country strives to meet its climate commitments.

Joshi and Grossi also discussed the importance of integrated energy planning and the complementary role of nuclear power in bolstering energy security and decarbonization efforts. They touched upon capacity building and collaboration on advanced technologies, such as small modular reactors and nuclear-renewable hybrid systems, which align with India’s objectives for sustainable energy.

The ongoing World Economic Forum, taking place from January 19 to 23, 2026, attracts nearly 3,000 participants from over 130 countries, including an unprecedented number of world leaders, CEOs, and innovators. Under the theme “A Spirit of Dialogue,” the forum serves as a platform for discussions on pressing global issues and sets priorities for collective action.

India has been positioned as one of the world’s fastest-growing renewable energy markets, and during the WEF, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi actively encouraged global investors to engage in India’s swift clean energy expansion. This meeting underscores the vital role nuclear energy will play in supporting India’s sustainable development and energy security in the years to come.