Tokyo, Japan, 8 October 2026: Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) participated in the World Association of Nuclear Operators Biennial General Meeting 2026 (WANO BGM 2026) in Tokyo, Japan. NPCIL was represented by S. D. Paraswar, Director (Operations) and Chief Nuclear Officer (CNO), and Navneet Kataria, WANO Interface Officer (WIN) and Technical Advisor to the CMD, NPCIL.
During the meeting, Paraswar delivered an interactive talk on “Effective Management of Ageing Fleet.” He explained NPCIL’s approach to managing its ageing nuclear power fleet. The presentation focused on maintaining the long-term safety, reliability and performance of nuclear reactors. Paraswar also shared NPCIL’s experience in operating its existing fleet.
In addition, he spoke about NPCIL’s nuclear power projects that are currently at different stages of implementation. The experience shared at the meeting provided insights into managing both operating reactors and new nuclear projects.
Paraswar also participated as a panelist in a high-level discussion titled “From Black Swans to a Brighter Future.” The discussion focused on the challenges that could affect the nuclear industry in the coming years. These included supply-chain resilience, equipment availability, workforce requirements, ageing nuclear fleets, cybersecurity and climate-related risks.
These issues are becoming increasingly important as nuclear operators look to extend the operating life of existing reactors while maintaining high levels of safety and performance. Supply-chain resilience is also a key concern. Nuclear operators need reliable access to critical equipment, components and services throughout the operating life of a reactor.
At the same time, the industry faces a growing need for skilled professionals. Managing ageing reactors, building new projects and adopting new technologies will require expertise across engineering, operations, maintenance, safety and project management.
NPCIL has been a member of WANO since its inception in 1989. Through its participation in WANO programmes, NPCIL continues to contribute to global efforts focused on nuclear safety, operational excellence and continuous improvement. The participation at the WANO BGM 2026 also provided an opportunity for NPCIL to share India’s operational experience with the international nuclear community.
As India expands its nuclear power programme, experience in managing the existing fleet will remain important. At the same time, lessons from global nuclear operators can support the safe and efficient development of India’s future nuclear capacity. NPCIL continues to emphasise nuclear safety and operational excellence as it supports India’s long-term nuclear energy objectives.
