UPSC Mains 2017 GS3 Q16 — Nuclear Technology
Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What is the advantage of fast breeder reactor programme in India ? (Answer in 250 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Give an account ofWhat is the advantage of
- Scope keywords
- growth and developmentnuclear science and technologyIndiafast breeder reactor programme
- Implicit sub-parts
- Chronological evolution from Homi Bhabha’s three-stage vision to current indigenous pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs).
- Key institutional and technological milestones including BARC, DAE, and Pokhran tests as indicators of strategic development.
- Specific technical and strategic benefits of the second stage (FBR) in the context of India's limited uranium and abundant thorium reserves.
- Role of the closed fuel cycle in achieving long-term energy security.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too much time on general history of nuclear physics instead of focusing on India's specific technological milestones.
- Failing to mention the 'Three-Stage Nuclear Power Programme', which is the backbone of Indian nuclear development.
- Confusing Fast Breeder Reactors with general nuclear reactors without explaining 'breeding' (creating more fuel than consumed).
- Neglecting the mention of Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam as a current progress marker.
- Dimensions required
- Historical/ChronologicalTechnological/ScientificStrategic/GeopoliticalResource-based (Uranium vs Thorium)Energy Security
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate approximately 100-120 words to the 'account of growth' covering the three-stage plan and indigenous capability. Spend the remaining 130 words specifically on the Fast Breeder Reactor, detailing its mechanism for fuel doubling, thorium utilization, and waste reduction to address the second half of the question which carries equal weight.
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