In a significant boost to the country’s nuclear energy sector, the Ministry of Finance has waived customs duties on specified goods imported for nuclear power generation, granting retrospective tax relief for eligible imports made between April 1, 2019, and January 31, 2026.
The exemption was notified through a government order dated June 11 and applies to designated goods imported under specified customs tariff categories for use in nuclear power projects.
The move is expected to reduce project costs for nuclear power operators, equipment suppliers, and developers by eliminating customs duty liabilities on qualifying imports during the nearly seven-year period. Industry stakeholders believe the decision will improve the financial viability of ongoing and planned nuclear power projects.
The latest notification follows the Union Budget 2026 announcement, in which the government extended customs-duty exemptions for goods required in nuclear power generation projects until 2035. The retrospective application of the exemption further strengthens policy support for the sector and provides relief to entities that imported eligible equipment and components during the covered period.
India has been steadily expanding its nuclear energy programme as part of its broader clean energy and energy security strategy. Nuclear power is expected to play a key role in supporting the country’s transition to low-carbon energy sources while meeting rising electricity demand.
The government has set an ambitious target of achieving 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, aligning with its long-term vision for a developed and energy-secure India. The customs-duty waiver is expected to facilitate investment in nuclear infrastructure and accelerate the deployment of new generation capacity across the country.
The decision underscores the government’s continued focus on creating a supportive policy environment for clean energy technologies and strengthening India’s energy transition roadmap.
