The Central Electricity Authority (CEA), the apex technical organization under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, celebrated its 52nd Foundation Day on October 11, 2025, at the Central Water Commission Auditorium, New Delhi. The event marked a major milestone in India’s energy planning journey, emphasizing CEA’s critical role in shaping a reliable, sustainable, and secure power sector.
Strengthening India’s Power Vision
The celebration focused on the roadmap for developing 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047, in alignment with India’s long-term energy and climate goals. The CEA continues to play a vital role in planning, monitoring, and coordinating the nation’s electricity supply, ensuring round-the-clock power of high quality and reliability.
The event was graced by Shri Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Power, as the Chief Guest, along with senior officials from PSUs, State Utilities, and industry bodies.
Shri Pankaj Agarwal’s Address
In his address, Shri Agarwal lauded CEA’s contributions to policy formulation, power system planning, and adoption of advanced technologies. He emphasized the Authority’s importance in achieving India’s Net-Zero by 2070 goal and its leadership in integrating renewable and nuclear power into the national grid. He also commended CEA’s focus on grid resilience, technological modernization, and sustainability.
Chairperson’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
Shri Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairperson, CEA, welcomed the gathering and highlighted CEA’s remarkable journey since its inception in 1973. He outlined the Authority’s achievements in generation and transmission planning, formulation of technical standards, and digitalization initiatives that are propelling India’s power sector toward innovation and efficiency.
Major Launches and Releases on Foundation Day
The event witnessed a series of important releases and launches that underline CEA’s progressive approach:
-
‘Vidyut Vahini’ – Hindi Quarterly Magazine (Special Edition) on “Contribution of Nuclear Energy in Electricity Sector” was released to promote awareness and dialogue on nuclear power’s role in India’s energy future.
-
Roadmap for 100 GW Nuclear Capacity by 2047 was unveiled, providing a detailed strategy for expanding nuclear generation and achieving long-term energy security.
-
Master Plan for Evacuation of Power from Hydroelectric Plants in the Brahmaputra Basin was launched, outlining transmission infrastructure to evacuate approximately 65 GW of hydro capacity, supporting clean power development in the North East.
-
Electrical Accident Data Monitoring System (EADMS) Portal was introduced, creating a centralized digital platform for reporting, analyzing, and reducing electrical accidents nationwide, strengthening electrical safety and data-driven policymaking.
Awards and Technical Sessions
Outstanding officers of the CEA were honored for their exceptional contributions to the power sector. A technical session titled “Nuclear Energy for Net-Zero: Opportunities, Challenges, and Pathways” followed, featuring key experts and stakeholders.
Dr. R. B. Grover, Member, Atomic Energy Commission, discussed “An Integrated Energy System with Nuclear, Renewables and Beyond,” emphasizing the synergy between nuclear and renewable energy sources.
Shri S. A. Bhardwaj, Former Chairman, AERB, presented insights on “Potential of Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Advancing Reactor Technology,” focusing on safety, efficiency, and innovation in nuclear energy.
Industry leaders from NTPC, Tata Power, Adani Power, L&T, and EDF shared their perspectives on technology adoption and collaborative opportunities for future growth in the nuclear sector.
Commitment to a Sustainable Power Future
The 52nd Foundation Day reaffirmed CEA’s commitment to leading India’s energy transition through innovation, sustainability, and data-driven governance. By unveiling strategic initiatives such as the 100 GW nuclear roadmap, Brahmaputra Basin transmission plan, and EADMS portal, CEA continues to drive India’s mission of achieving affordable, reliable, and clean power for all.
