New Delhi— Russia has formally approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen civil nuclear cooperation with India, just days before President Vladimir Putin arrives in New Delhi for his December 4–5 visit. The decision marks a renewed push to expand strategic energy ties between the two countries.
According to reports from Moscow, Russia’s state-owned nuclear corporation Rosatom — currently constructing multiple reactors at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant in Tamil Nadu — has been authorised to sign the MoU on behalf of the Russian government. The agreement is expected to fast-track collaboration on advanced reactor technology and long-term nuclear projects in India.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told Indian reporters on Tuesday that Rosatom CEO Alexei Ligachev will bring a comprehensive set of proposals to the summit. These include new plans for cooperation on small modular reactors (SMRs), an emerging technology that promises safer, flexible and cost-effective nuclear energy solutions.
Previous indications from Rosatom suggest that the corporation is prepared to localise next-generation Russian-designed reactors in India, a move that could deepen industrial participation and boost India’s domestic nuclear manufacturing capabilities.
The upcoming summit is expected to pave the way for expanded civilian nuclear collaboration, reinforcing the long-standing strategic partnership between New Delhi and Moscow.
