This refers to ‘India’s first commercial fast breeder reactor goes critical after 15-year delay’. India’s nuclear journey programme reached a historic milestone because it was developed indigenously. This achievement places India as only the second nation in the world to master fast breeder technology. Fast breeder reactors are crucial for India’s long-term energy security, as they open the path to harnessing thorium, of which India holds the world’s largest reserves, estimated at nearly one million tonnes promising sustainable, clean power for generations. It is heartening to know that plans are already underway for two more breeder reactors at Kalpakkam and four additional units at another site, ensuring continuity of this visionary programme.

O Prasada Rao

Hyderabad

Break in hostilities

Announcement of a two-week breather in hostilities to enable negotiations based on the 10 points that Iran has put forward comes as a big relief. Yet, careful and impartial negotiations must begin from here on so as to ensure hostilities do not resume again. During the last four years or so, there have been gross violations of international law with regard to both national sovereignty and trade. Hopefully, these issues would be addressed in the forthcoming BRICS meeting with India as the chair.

Angara Venkata Girija Kumar

Chennai

Strides in nuclear energy

This refers to ‘Nuclear milestone’ (April 8). The Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor marks an important step in India’s energy journey. It shows progress in advanced reactor technology and future fuel security. However, the long delay and high cost also reflect execution challenges.

Such gaps can influence public confidence in large projects. As the reactor moves through testing and stabilisation, steady progress becomes important. Clear stage-wise timelines can improve outcomes and trust.

S Balasubramaniyan

Villupuram, TN

Conserve water

Apropos, ‘S-W monsoon to be below-normal this year’ (April 8). With higher summer temperature, depleting water levels in major reservoirs and below normal S-W monsoon, cultivation of water-guzzling crops like sugarcane and paddy must be curbed. In addition, State governments must provide incentives for drip and micro irrigation in order to conserve available water sources and prevent further depletion of groundwater.

Rajiv Magal

Halekere Village, Karnataka

Published on April 8, 2026