In a significant step towards strengthening India's indigenous technological capabilities and strategic materials programme, Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy & Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission, inaugurated the Versatile Deuterated compounds Production Plant (VDPP) and commissioned the 24 kA Prototype Sodium Cell at the Heavy Water Board Facilities (HWBF), Vadodara, on 21 June 2026.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mohanty said, "The inauguration of the VDPP and commissioning of the 24 kA Prototype Sodium Cell reflect India's growing capabilities in developing critical materials and technologies through indigenous research and innovation. These facilities will strengthen strategic self-reliance, support advanced scientific research and contribute to the long-term objectives of India's nuclear energy programme. The development of indigenous nuclear-grade sodium production capability is particularly important for supporting the future growth of India's Fast Breeder Reactor Programme and advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat through technological excellence."

The ceremony was held in the august presence of Shri K. N. Vyas, Homi Bhabha Chair Professor and Former Secretary, Department of Atomic Energy & Chairman, Atomic Energy Commission. Also present were Shri V. V. S. A. Prasad, Chairman & Chief Executive, Heavy Water Board; Shri K. V. Tale, Director (Operation/Technical), Heavy Water Board; Shri Nitesh Mehta, Officer on Special Duty, HWBF (Vadodara); along with senior officials of the Department of Atomic Energy, scientists, engineers and employees of the Heavy Water Board.

The Versatile Deuterated Compounds Production Plant has been established to enhance the country's indigenous capability for the production of specialised deuterated compounds required for advanced scientific research, strategic applications and frontier technological programmes. The facility is aimed to play a vital role in meeting national requirements in this critical domain through the indigenous production of high-purity deuterated solvents.

The commissioning of the 24 kA Prototype Sodium Cell marks a major technological achievement towards the indigenous industrial-scale production of nuclear-grade sodium, a critical material for India's Fast Breeder Reactor Programme. Developed through sustained research, engineering excellence and technological innovation, the facility represents a significant step towards achieving self-reliance in strategic materials required for the second stage of India's three-stage nuclear power programme, in line with the national vision of AtmaNirbhar Bharat.

These achievements underscore DAE's continued commitment to technological self-reliance, innovation and excellence in strategic sectors. The milestones further contribute to India's journey towards Viksit Bharat through indigenous technological advancement and strategic capability development.

*******

NKR/AK/NM