In a significant move to enhance civil nuclear cooperation, the United States has lifted restrictions on three major Indian entities: the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), the Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Centre (IGCAR), and Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL). This decision, announced by the US Bureau of Industry and Security on January 15, 2025, aims to reduce barriers to advanced energy collaboration between India and the US, aligning with strategic foreign policy objectives.
The restrictions, which were imposed during the Cold War era, had previously limited the ability of these institutions to engage in joint research and development activities with American companies. The removal from the US Entity List is expected to facilitate closer cooperation in areas such as clean energy supply chains and critical minerals. Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration Matthew Borman emphasised that this action supports the overall ambition of the US-India partnership.
This development follows comments made by US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan during his visit to India earlier this month, where he indicated that steps were being finalised to eliminate obstacles hindering nuclear collaboration. Sullivan highlighted the longstanding vision for civil nuclear cooperation that dates back nearly two decades but has yet to be fully realised. He stated that it was time to take significant steps towards cementing this partnership.
Experts have welcomed the lifting of these restrictions, noting that it will enhance India’s access to critical atomic technologies and bolster its capabilities in nuclear energy development. The decision also comes at a time when India is looking to expand its nuclear infrastructure and develop small nuclear reactors.
In addition to lifting restrictions on Indian entities, the US Department of Commerce has added 11 Chinese entities to its Entity List for activities contrary to US national security interests. This underscores a broader strategy by the US to strengthen its alliances while addressing concerns related to global energy security.
The lifting of these sanctions marks a pivotal moment in US-India relations, potentially paving the way for increased collaboration in nuclear technology and energy sectors.