India's Post-Independence Energy Crisis In 1947, India gained independence amidst global turmoil and energy challenges. Homi Bhabha recognized nuclear energy as a solution to India's dependence on coal and oil imports, envisioning it as key for scientific advancement and economic growth. Nuclear power was seen not only as clean but also efficient compared to other sources of energy.
Homi Bhabha’s Visionary Thorium Strategy Bhabha identified thorium—a resource abundant in India—as the cornerstone for sustainable nuclear development due to its efficiency over uranium. He devised a three-stage program: using uranium reactors initially, generating plutonium next, then transitioning fully into thorium-based systems. This strategy aimed at making India an independent leader in nuclear technology.
Mysterious Deaths Halt Progress The deaths of Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and Homi Bhabha within weeks derailed India's burgeoning nuclear ambitions during critical moments in history. Their untimely demises left investigations incomplete while international treaties like the Non-Proliferation Treaty further restricted advancements by favoring established powers such as China or Russia.
'Smiling Buddha' Amidst Global Resistance 'Smiling Buddha,' India's first peaceful atomic test under Indira Gandhi faced severe backlash from Western nations who imposed sanctions cutting access crucial technologies & resources hindering progress towards self-reliance despite showcasing potential capabilities globally through Pokhran-II tests later conducted successfully proving resilience against external pressures