Russia is trying to start the production of spares and equipment for nuclear energy in India itself, according to Sergey L. Kotov, Consul-General of Russia.
Speaking to The Hindu on the sidelines of a special lecture delivered by him at Nehru Memorial College at Puthanampatti near here on Wednesday, he said his country had welcomed the “Make in India” campaign of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he wanted to create a brand value to Indian products as well as stimulating the country’s growth. Russia had taken efforts to localise [setting up of units in India] the production of at least a part of spares and equipment needed for nuclear energy production. It would also help in generating jobs to Indians.
Mr. Kotov said Russia had been a partner of India on nuclear energy production for several years. Though a few countries were trying to partner with India on clean energy production in recent years, Russia would have its own share. The functioning of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant and its expansion was likely to figure in the agenda of President Vladimir Putin’s scheduled visit to India in December.
Asked about the continuous protest against the Kudankulam plant, he said it was functioning extremely well. There was absolutely no need for any apprehension as it had superior safety level. In fact, it was so high than the safety cover provided to nuclear plants in various countries.
Terming the agitation “an act of publicity” Mr. Kotov said the fear of local population was understandable. But there was no reason to worry. A few persons were trying to gain personal mileage by spreading false information. It was against reality.
About 100 scientists from Russia and its neighbouring countries were staying in Kudankulam for operation and maintenance of the plant. The Consul General of Russia in Chennai was maintaining a close contact with them. A unit of the plant was expected to start commercial production in the third week of January, he said.