Answer

Nuclear energy is the energy harnessed from the nucleus of atoms, typically through nuclear fission or fusion processes, which release a significant amount of heat that can be converted into electricity. As far India is concerned, Nuclear power accounts for approximately 2% of India's overall electricity production, making it the fifth-largest electricity source in the country. India presently operates a network of seven power plants hosting more than 22 nuclear reactors, collectively generating 6,780 MW of nuclear energy.

• Growing Energy Demand: India's energy demand has been steadily increasing, and it is expected to rise further due to urbanization and industrialization.
• For ex: As per a report released by the Fitch Group, India's power demand is anticipated to expand by more than 70% over the next decade.
• Reducing Dependence on Fossil Fuels: Nuclear energy diversifies the energy mix, reducing reliance on fossil fuels like coal and oil, which are susceptible to price fluctuations and supply disruptions.
• For ex: India recorded a power supply shortage of 1,200 million units in October 2021 due to a crunch in coal stocks available with thermal plants.
• Climate Change Mitigation: Nuclear power is a low-carbon energy source, contributing to India's efforts to combat climate change. India has pledged to reduce its carbon intensity and increase the share of non-fossil fuel capacity in its energy mix.
• Critical in achieving target of reducing Emissions Intensity of its GDP by 45 percent by 2030 from 2005 level
• Reliable Baseload Power: Nuclear power provides a consistent and reliable source of electricity, vital for sustaining a modern economy.
• Further, it complements intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar by providing a stable baseload power supply.
• Economic Development: The nuclear sector generates employment opportunities in research, construction, operation, and maintenance of nuclear facilities.

• Long-term Sustainability: India has substantial reserves of uranium and thorium, making nuclear power a sustainable energy option for the future.
• India is a leading country in Thorium resources and is in the process of developing a pioneering thorium-based nuclear facility called "Bhavni”.

• Safety Concerns: Ensuring the safety of nuclear reactors and facilities is paramount, especially in densely populated areas. 
• For ex: India has faced safety incidents like the 2016 Kakrapar nuclear plant incident, highlighting the need for robust safety measures.
• Public Opposition: Nuclear projects often face opposition from local communities and environmental groups, leading to delays and public distrust. 
• For ex: Protests have occurred against proposed nuclear plants, such as the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant.
• Cost and Financing: Nuclear power plants are capital-intensive, and their construction can be financially burdensome. Securing financing for these projects and managing cost overruns can be challenging.
• Long Gestation Period: Nuclear projects have long gestation periods from planning to commissioning, which can impede meeting India's growing energy demands in a timely manner.
• For ex: Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant construction commenced in 2002, but it took more than a decade for the first unit to start commercial operation in 2013.

• Nuclear Liability:  It has been a subject of debate, particularly concerning foreign suppliers who are concerned about potential liability for accidents beyond their jurisdiction under the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010.

India's energy strategy should encompass a diverse portfolio of technologies, including supply-side and demand-side solutions, both within and beyond the nuclear sector, such as solar and hydro energy. Rather than setting fixed targets for nuclear energy expansion, the government should focus on creating a supportive policy framework for low-carbon, reliable energy sources, while simultaneously investing in research and development, particularly in advanced nuclear technologies like small modular reactors and thorium utilization. 

Thus, India should adopt a balanced approach that addresses sector challenges and opportunities while fostering the growth of a diverse range of low-carbon, dependable energy sources to achieve Sustainable Development Goals 2030.