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Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam reaches criticality

· Kalpakkam

India's 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam achieved first criticality on 6 April 2026.

The sodium-cooled Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor was built at Kalpakkam as the start of the second stage of India's three-stage nuclear power programme. Construction began in 2004 but faced long delays; core loading began on 4 March 2024 in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After further technical issues were resolved, the reactor achieved first criticality on 6 April 2026. Kalpakkam already housed the Madras Atomic Power Station and the Fast Breeder Test Reactor.

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  2. 1971

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  3. 1984

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  4. 1985

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  5. 1986

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