The government has clarified that there is currently no proposal to establish a nuclear power plant in Punjab, including at Patiala, as part of the country’s energy transition efforts.The information was provided in the Rajya Sabha in response to an un-starred question raised by MP Satnam Singh Sandhu.No active proposal, past site had potentialReplying to the query, Minister of State in the Prime Minister Office, which looks after atomic energy, Jitendra Singh stated that no feasibility review is currently underway for setting up a nuclear power plant in Patiala.However, he noted that a site at Patran in Patiala district had been evaluated in the early 2000s and was found suitable for a nuclear power station with a capacity of 4×700 megawatts. Despite this potential, the project did not move forward as the state government at the time had not taken a policy decision in 2007.The government added that if the Punjab government proposes either the same site or alternative locations in the future, these would be evaluated by the Standing Site Selection Committee of the Department of Atomic Energy.No alternative sites under considerationThe Centre also made it clear that, at present, no alternative sites are being evaluated anywhere in Punjab for nuclear power generation. This indicates that the state is not currently part of India’s immediate nuclear expansion plans.Public concerns acknowledgedAddressing concerns related to nuclear safety, waste management, and environmental impact—especially in light of evolving policies and private sector participation—the government said that these issues are being taken seriously.It informed that Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited is conducting structured public awareness programmes across the country to promote credible understanding of nuclear energy. These initiatives target students, teachers, local communities, policymakers, media, and the general public.Regulatory oversight and safety measuresThe government highlighted the role of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board in ensuring safety and building public confidence. The Board conducts regular awareness programmes in areas around nuclear facilities and radiation installations.It also keeps the public informed through quarterly newsletters, annual reports, and regular updates on radiation and nuclear safety via its official platform. Additionally, press releases are issued on important safety-related matters to maintain transparency.Future dependent on state proposalThe Centre emphasized that any future consideration of nuclear power projects in Punjab will depend on proposals from the state government. Only after such proposals are received will detailed site evaluations and feasibility assessments be carried out.