India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam reached first criticality on April 6, 2026, placing it alongside Russia as the second country to operate a commercial-level fast breeder reactor. The milestone begins Stage II of India’s three-stage nuclear plan, using MOX fuel to breed more fuel than it consumes and paving the way for a thorium-driven future.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated scientists for achieving “first criticality” at India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Nuclear Reactor in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu. Calling it a historic milestone, the achievement strengthens India’s long-term nuclear roadmap. The PFBR uses MOX fuel and a uranium-238 blanket, designed to help breed additional fuel for future reactor use.
Your news, in seconds
Get the Beige app — every story in 60 words, updated hourly. Free on iOS & Android.
Swipe through stories, personalise your feed, and save articles for later — all on the app.
