School of Law and Nuclear Law Association (NLA)’s 9th edition of the Training Programme on Nuclear Energy and Law [Highlights]
The School of Law, Sai University, in association with the Nuclear Law Association (NLA) is organising the 9th edition of the Training Programme on Nuclear Energy and Law (11th March to 15th March 2024) at the Sai University Campus (One Hub, Paiyanur, Chennai).
Several internationally renowned experts in the field of Nuclear Law and Policy are giving lectures as part of the programme. We hope for this to be a stimulating experience for all the participants!
Below is the schedule for the 4-day training program, including topics and a list of speakers.
Day 1 (Monday 11th March)
The first day of the Training Program on Nuclear Energy and Law featured three intellectually stimulating sessions, including lectures by Professor TS Gopi Rethinaraj (Professor of Physics, Sustainability and Public Policy, Sai University) and Mr. Anthony Whetherall (Head, Nuclear and Treaty Law Section IAEA Office of Legal Affairs, International Atomic Energy Agency).
Professor TS Gopi Rethinaraj kicked off the day by delving into the fundamentals of nuclear energy development. He covered the history of nuclear energy development, fuel cycle approaches, reactor types, and India’s nuclear energy program. His riveting lecture and engaging discussion with students set the stage for the remainder of the program, providing a solid foundation in nuclear energy principles.
Mr. Whetherall introduced students to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the International Nuclear Legal Framework. Students gained insights into the structure of the IAEA and its role within the global nuclear governance framework.
Professor TS Gopi Rethinaraj returned to focus on ‘Basic Radiation Biology for Nuclear Regulatory Purposes.’ He addressed concerns about radiation by explaining various types of ionizing radiation, the impact of radiation on human health, the uses of radiation in healthcare and the necessity of fostering a deeper understanding of radiation biology for dispelling fears surrounding radiation.
Students actively participated and asked insightful questions throughout the day, enriching the learning experience for everyone involved. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey through the fascinating world of nuclear energy and law!
| Topics | Time | Speakers |
| Nuclear energy development – nuclear energy fuel cycle – types of NPPs- India’s nuclear energy program | (11.15 AM -12:45 PM) | T. S. Gopi Rethinaraj, Sai University |
| The IAEA and its role in the development of Nuclear Law | (2:00 PM – 3.30 PM) | Anthony Wetherall
Head, Nuclear and Treaty Law Section, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) |
| Basic Radiation Biology for Nuclear Regulatory Purposes | (3:45 PM to 5:30 PM) | T. S. Gopi Rethinaraj, Sai University |
Day 2 (Tuesday 12th March)
Mr. Anthony Whetherall (Head, Nuclear and Treaty Law Section IAEA Office of Legal Affairs, International Atomic Energy Agency) provided a comprehensive overview of key international legal instruments in the nuclear field.
From early developments in military applications to nuclear disasters and the peaceful and non-peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology, students gained valuable insights into the legal frameworks governing nuclear technology risks. Discussions on radiation risks, proliferation risk prevention, and civil liability for nuclear damage highlighted the multifaceted nature of nuclear law’s objective – providing a legal framework for safe and secure nuclear activities.
Professor Shiju Mazhuvanchery (Dean, School of Law, Sai University) delved into the intersection of environmental clearances and nuclear power projects. Going into the history of Indian environmental jurisprudence emphasizing the balance between development priorities and environmental protection, the session explored the legal aspects of environmental clearance and post-clearance monitoring in nuclear energy projects.
Mr. Soumen Sinha (Scientific Officer & Officer in Charge Legal Cell, AERB) shed light on 40 years of nuclear and radiation safety regulations, marking the milestone achievement of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board. Students gained insights into the legal framework, international obligations, and core functions of the AERB, emphasizing its pivotal role in ensuring nuclear safety and regulatory oversight.
Professor T S Gopi Rethinaraj explored India’s Nuclear Rapprochement from 2005 to the present. Topics included India’s engagements with the Nuclear Suppliers Group, IAEA safeguards, the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, and the impact of these agreements on India’s foreign policy.
| Topics | Time | Speakers |
|---|---|---|
| Overview of key international legal instruments in the nuclear field | (9.15AM – 10.45 AM) | Anthony Wetherall:
Head, Nuclear and Treaty Law Section, International Atomic |
| Environmental Impact Assessment procedures and public participation – in the context of nuclear projects |
(11.00 AM – 12.30 PM) | Shiju M. V., Professor, Sai University |
| India’s nuclear regulatory structure and processes | (1.30 PM – 3.00 PM) | Soumen Sinha, Scientific Officer & Officer in Charge Legal Cell, AERB |
| Nuclear Suppliers Group & IAEA Safeguards – Nuclear trade control & India – India -US Civil Nuclear Agreement – India’s negotiations with NSG – India specific IAEA safeguards agreement | (3.30 PM – 5.00 PM) | T. S. Gopi Rethinaraj, Sai University |
Day 3 (Wednesday 13th March)
Dr. DK Mohapatra (Head Safety Research Institute, Kalpakkam & Head, Southern Regional Regulatory Centre, AERB) led an enlightening discussion on Independent Safety Analysis and Research at AERB.
Participants explored the vision of AERB in ensuring the safe use of ionizing radiation, along with the codal requirements and collaborative research initiatives aimed at advancing nuclear safety. Key topics included safety assessment methodologies, important neutron-induced reactions, and interaction probabilities, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of nuclear safety analysis.
Ms. Els Reynaers (Secretary Nuclear Law Association India and Partner, MV Kini) delved into the complexities of Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage in India. Attendees gained insights into the legal framework surrounding civil liability, exploring key principles and considerations in nuclear damage claims.
Ms. Divya Meena (General Insurance Corporation of India) provided a comprehensive briefing on India Nuclear Insurance Pool (INIP). Discussions centered around the principles of insurance and reinsurance, highlighting the operation of INIP and its role in mitigating nuclear risks in India.
Dr. AN Nandakumar (Former Head, Radiological Safety Division, AERB) offered a risk perspective on instances of non-compliance in the transport of radioactive material, accompanied by insightful case studies. Participants delved into the regulations governing the safe transport of radioactive material in India, emphasizing the importance of safety measures in mitigating risks associated with radioactive materials.
| Topics | Time | Speakers |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Safety Analysis & Research at AERB | (9.15AM – 10.45 AM) | D. K. Mohapatra, Head Safety Research Institute, Kalpakkam & Head, Southern Regional Regulatory Centre, AERB |
| The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 and related Rules | (11.00 AM – 12.30 PM) | Els Reynaers, Secretary NLA India and Partner, MV Kini |
| Briefing on Nuclear Insurance in India: Indian Nuclear Insurance Pool (INIP) and its operation |
(1.30 PM – 2.30 PM) | Divya Meena, Pool Department, General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC Re) |
| A risk perspective of typical instances of non-compliance in transport of radioactive material (including case studies) |
(3.00 PM – 5.00 PM) | A N Nandakumar, Former Head, Radiological Safety Division, AERB |
Day 4 (Thursday 14th March)
Mr Rama Ponangi from the Center on Global Energy Policy, Columbia University, shed light on “Climate Change and Nuclear – Energy Transition to Net Zero.” Participants explored the pivotal role of nuclear energy in achieving net-zero emissions amidst climate change challenges.
Professor Shiju MV (Dean, School of Law, Sai University) presented a compelling case study on the Kudankulam Supreme Court Judgment- G Sundarrajan v Union of India. Through the lens of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, attendees delved into the complexities of public interest litigation, environmental concerns, and the judiciary’s role in large-scale projects.
Ms. Kimberly Sexton Nick from the Nuclear Energy Agency, OECD, discussed “Environmental Law and Stakeholders’ Involvement Considerations related to Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).” Key topics included international legal frameworks for environmental protection and the significance of stakeholder engagement in SMR projects.
Dr. Rishika Singh, Visiting Associate Fellow at the Centre for Air Power Studies, New Delhi, explored the “Role of Small Modular Reactors in India’s Energy Transition.” Participants examined India’s energy landscape, the potential of SMRs in decarbonization efforts, and the unique advantages of SMR technology in addressing climate change challenges.
| Topics | Time | Speakers |
| Climate Change & Nuclear – Energy Transition to Net Zero | (9.30 AM to 11.00 AM) | Rama Ponangi, Research Associate, Center on Global Energy Policy, Columbia University |
| Kudankulam SC Judgement: A Case Study | (11.30 AM – 1.00 PM) | Shiju M V, Professor, Sai University. |
| Environmental law and stakeholders’ involvement considerations related to SMRs |
(2.00 PM – 3.30 PM) | Kimberly Sexton Nick, Head, Division of Nuclear Law, Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) |
| Role of SMRs in India’s Energy Transition | (4.00 PM – 5.00 PM) | Dr. Rishika Singh, Visiting Associate Fellow, Centre for Air Power Studies, New Delhi |