Question 1

Who is widely regarded as the 'Father of the Indian Nuclear Programme'?

Accepted Answer

Homi J. Bhabha. Homi J. Bhabha founded the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and the Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay. He formulated India's three-stage nuclear power strategy to utilize domestic resources. He served as the first chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission of India.

Question 2

In which year was the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) of India established?

Accepted Answer

1948. The Atomic Energy Commission was set up in August 1948 under the Department of Scientific Research. It was created to survey for atomic minerals and promote nuclear research for peaceful purposes. Its formation was a critical first step in institutionalizing nuclear technology in independent India.

Question 3

Which was the first nuclear research reactor to be commissioned in India and Asia?

Accepted Answer

Apsara. Apsara was a swimming-pool-type reactor that became critical in August 1956 at Trombay. It was built with assistance from the United Kingdom, which provided the enriched uranium fuel. The reactor played a foundational role in training Indian nuclear scientists.

Question 4

The three-stage nuclear power programme of India is specifically designed to eventually utilize which element?

Accepted Answer

Thorium. India has vast domestic reserves of thorium, making it the focal point of long-term energy security. The three stages transition from natural uranium to plutonium and finally to thorium-based fuel cycles. Thorium itself is fertile and must be converted into Uranium-233 to be used as fuel.

Question 5

What was the code name of India's first nuclear test conducted in 1974?

Accepted Answer

Smiling Buddha. India conducted its first peaceful nuclear explosion at Pokhran, Rajasthan, on Buddha Purnima day. This test made India the first nation outside the permanent members of the UN Security Council to demonstrate nuclear capability. The operation was managed by a small team of scientists and military personnel.

India's Programs — Set 1