Question : SHORTAGE OF FUEL TO TARAPUR ATOMIC POWER PLANT

(a) whether the stockpile of fuel at Tarapur Atomic Power Plant is running very low;

(b) if so, whether Russian Government has agreed to release low enriched Uranium for the Tarapur nuclear power plant in the first half of this year;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) to extent to which Prime Minister`s visit and the Indo-US Civilian nuclear agreement have been helpful in facilitating supply of fuel by Russia;

(e) whether India and Russia have also agreed to discuss future cooperation in the development of 4th and 5th generation nuclear reactors;

(f) if so, the details thereof; and

(g) the future strategy chalked out by both the countries for further cooperation in this field?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER`S OFFICE (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN):

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b)& (c) The matter is under discussion with foreign suppliers.

(d)to(g) The recent Indo-US joint statement issued during the visit of our Prime Minister to the United States envisages opening up of civil nuclear cooperation.

Discussions have also been held with Russia. Further discussions would be continued.