Emerging trend of uranium mining. The Indian scenario

From the modest beginning in 1948, the atomic energy programme of India has grown to vast dimensions with mosaic of many interrelated programmes. The uranium ore mining and processing industry of the country began at Jaduguda in 1968. It has made a very impressive growth during these years with four operating mines and meeting the entire fuel requirement of the country. The country now has a definite plan for multi-phase expansion of the nuclear power programme, self-reliance of raw materials being the basic drive. The uranium mining industry is fully geared up to meet the challenge of uranium fuel demand by undertaking uranium mining and processing activity progressively in line with the requirement of fuel. Several new uranium ore mining projects are in pipeline for execution. The technology of mining, processing and tailings disposal has also undergone improvement absorbing global advancements in these fields. (author)