As the world looks at China’s dominance in technology, India is silently making history with its contribution to ITER— the world’s most ambitious fusion energy project. This “Made in India” Sun could revolutionize energy production, a future where dependence on fossil fuels and natural resources comes to an end.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting the ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) site in Cadarache, France, during his three-day tour Showcasing his vision for clean energy leadership, 

This multi-nation initiative, costing over €22 billion, is being built by seven global powers—India, the US, Russia, China, Japan, South Korea, and the EU. ITER will be the world’s first large-scale fusion reactor, generating unlimited, carbon-free energy by mimicking the Sun’s natural fusion process.

Despite the project being based in France, “Made in India” is everywhere at ITER. India has invested ₹17,500 crore (10% of the total cost), securing 100% access to fusion technology—a strategic move for energy independence.

One of the biggest milestones in the project is the world’s largest cryostat, a massive 3,800-tonne refrigeration system essential for the reactor, which was designed and built in Gujarat by Larsen & Toubro. Indian industries have also supplied several high-tech components, proving the country’s engineering and scientific expertise.

Unlike traditional nuclear power, which splits atoms and produces hazardous waste, fusion energy fuses hydrogen atoms, generating only helium a safe and clean byproduct. This process, identical to how the Sun produces energy, promises endless, sustainable power for the planet.

However, harnessing fusion energy is a complex task. The ITER project involves over a million parts sourced from 45 countries, and the first full-scale experimental run is expected by 2035.

India is investing in ITER and boosting its domestic nuclear energy production, doubling its power output from 4,780 MW in 2014 to 8,180 MW in 2024, with a target of 22,480 MW by 2031-32. The ₹20,000 crore Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat is also focused on developing Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) a game-changer of inefficient energy production.

Despite its significant contribution, India is underrepresented at the ITER site. While 100 Indian scientists and engineers could be deployed as per agreements, only 25-30 are currently stationed there. Meanwhile, China has capitalized on this gap, increasing its presence. Experts blame India’s restrictive bureaucracy, which limits overseas postings, for this shortfall.

If ITER succeeds, “Aditya on Prithvi”—a Sun on Earth—could be a reality, powered by Indian expertise.

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