The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), which forms the principal institution overseeing and regulating anything that relates to nuclear safety in the country, was constituted on November 15, 1983, by the President of India in the exercise of the powers conferred under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. The Board was set up to ensure the safe usage of radiation and nuclear energy, usually for power generation, medicine, industrial use and research. It aims at protecting public health and safety as well as the environment, from the prospective harmful effects of radiation and nuclear materials.
Role
The board has been tasked with safeguarding and protecting public health and safety as well as the environment by effectively regulating the nuclear energy and radiation sources in India. Its objectives involve the issuance of licenses, the conduction of safety assessments and overseeing compliance with relevant regulatory standards. AERB has a crucial role in preventing accidents, minimizing risks, and ensuring responsible usage of nuclear technology.
Historical Development
1962: The Government of India enacted the Atomic Energy Act, of 1962, providing for the development, control and regulation of the atomic energy program of India.
1983: The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board was established by the President of India in the exercise of the powers conferred under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, on 15 November 1983. The board was set up as an independent body, for carrying out regulatory and safety functions related to nuclear installations, radiation facilities and radioactive materials in the country.
1986: The Environment Protection Act was enacted in 1986 which further delineated the powers and authority of the Board in matters related to Atomic Energy.
Composition
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board mainly consists of the following:
A Full-Time Chairman: The chairman is considered the head of the body and is appointed by the Central Government. He is vested with the powers of overseeing the functioning of the board and leading the regulatory process.
Four Part-Time Members: These members can come from various fields including nuclear engineering, radiation safety, atomic regulations, etc. Their expertise is useful in facilitating the regulating the decision-making process.
Member Secretary: He provides administrative support and works towards facilitating the day-to-day operations of the board.
Functions
The following are the key functions performed by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board:
Licensing and Authorization: The board is vested with the power of granting licenses and authorizations for the establishment, operation, and decommissioning of nuclear installations, radiation facilities, and other relevant activities.
Regulatory Oversight: AERB also conducts inspections, audits, and assessments of the licensed facilities thus maintaining a regulatory oversight over them. It checks whether they are working in compliance with and in adherence to safety protocols, and required preparedness in emergency and protection measures.
Safety Assessment and Evaluation: Safety Assessments and evaluations are also conducted by the board at the nuclear establishments and radiation facilities for identifying potential hazards, carrying out a risk assessment, and providing suggestive measures for mitigating the same.
Regulatory Development: The board also formulates regulatory frameworks and guidelines tailored to emerging issues that may arise, in line with international best practices, for effectively regulating the establishments and their activities.
Incident and Accident Investigation: AERB also investigates incidents, accidents, and safety-related concerns at such facilities to determine the root causes behind the same and identify corrective actions for the same.
Public Awareness and Communication: It also works towards fostering public awareness and understanding within the masses about nuclear safety and radiation protection. It prepares and disseminates information, and conducts outreach programs for better public awareness regarding the issue.
Note for UPSC Aspirants: For UPSC aspirants interested in exploring further, here are some keywords to guide your research: Nuclear Energy, Power Plants, Nuclear Waste, International Atomic Energy Agency, Renewable Energy, Non-Proliferation Treaty.
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