The Department of Atomic Energy has inaugurated a new deuterated compounds production facility and commissioned a prototype sodium cell to strengthen India's nuclear and scientific capabilities.

Vadodara, June 21:

In a major boost to India's scientific and strategic capabilities, the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) inaugurated the Versatile Deuterated Compounds Production Plant (VDPP) and commissioned a 24 kA Prototype Sodium Cell at the Heavy Water Board Facilities (HWBF) in Vadodara, Gujarat.

The facilities were inaugurated by Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission.

The newly established VDPP is designed to strengthen India's indigenous production of specialised deuterated compounds, which are widely used in advanced scientific research, strategic applications and emerging technologies. The facility will help meet national demand for high-purity deuterated solvents through domestic production.

A key highlight of the event was the commissioning of the 24 kA Prototype Sodium Cell, a major technological milestone towards indigenous industrial-scale production of nuclear-grade sodium. The material plays a crucial role in India's Fast Breeder Reactor Programme, which forms the second stage of the country's three-stage nuclear power strategy.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mohanty said the two facilities reflect India's growing capability to develop critical technologies through indigenous research, engineering and innovation. He noted that the projects will contribute to strategic self-reliance, advanced scientific research and the long-term objectives of India's nuclear energy programme.

The event was attended by senior officials of the Department of Atomic Energy, Heavy Water Board scientists, engineers and technical personnel.

Officials stated that the developments reinforce the vision of AtmaNirbhar Bharat and support India's journey towards becoming a technologically advanced and self-reliant nation.

The inauguration marks another important step in strengthening India's strategic materials programme and enhancing domestic capabilities in critical scientific and nuclear technologies.