IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi Hails India’s Nuclear Milestone: Kalpakkam PFBR Attains Criticality

The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, has officially lauded India for achieving a major breakthrough in its nuclear energy program. This recognition follows the successful criticality of the indigenous Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, on April 6, 2026.

Impressive progress by India in achieving criticality of the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam, a key step forward in fuel sustainability and the future of nuclear energy.

The @IAEAorg will continue supporting the safe and secure development of 🇮🇳’s nuclear programme.…

— Rafael Mariano Grossi (@rafaelmgrossi) April 8, 2026

​Taking to social media, Grossi described the achievement as "impressive progress," highlighting its role in fuel sustainability and the global future of clean energy. He specifically congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian scientific community for this landmark step toward energy independence.