Why in news?
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) recently featured in discussions about nuclear safety and regulatory reforms. Concerns have been raised about its legal status and the need for stronger independent oversight of India’s nuclear installations.
Background
The AERB was created in 1983 by an executive order of the Department of Atomic Energy under the Atomic Energy Act of 1962. It functions under the Atomic Energy Commission and consists of a full-time chairman and a full-time member-secretary, with the total number of members including the chairman and member-secretary not exceeding five.
The board’s mandate is to ensure that the use of ionising radiation and nuclear energy in India does not pose undue risk to workers, the public or the environment. It develops safety codes and standards for siting, design, construction, operation and decommissioning of nuclear and radiation facilities. It grants licences and conducts inspections to enforce compliance, prescribes exposure limits, reviews emergency preparedness plans, monitors training of personnel and communicates radiological safety information to the public.
Key issues
- Lack of statutory status: The AERB was established by an executive order rather than by a separate law. A report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) highlighted that the regulator lacks autonomy and functions as a subordinate agency of the Department of Atomic Energy. International best practices recommend independent legal status for nuclear regulators to avoid conflicts of interest and ensure public trust.
- Functions: Besides licensing and monitoring, the AERB liaises with international organisations, promotes research in safety and reviews nuclear security. It also sets dose limits for radiation workers and approves packages for radioactive material transport.
- Calls for reform: After the Fukushima accident, experts and parliamentary committees advocated a separate Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority through legislation to give the regulator more independence. Proposals for an independent nuclear regulator have been discussed but not yet enacted.
Significance
With India expanding its nuclear power programme, an effective and independent regulator is essential for preventing accidents and maintaining public confidence. Strengthening the legal foundation of the AERB would align India’s practices with global norms and ensure accountability.