DAE Inaugurates Deuterated Compounds Plant and Commissions Sodium Prototype Cell
On June 21, 2026, Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, inaugurated two significant facilities at the Heavy Water Board Facilities (HWBF) in Vadodara. The event marked the official opening of the indigenous Versatile Deuterated compounds Production Plant (VDPP) and the commissioning of the 24 kA Prototype Sodium Cell.
The VDPP has been established to enhance India's indigenous capability for producing specialized deuterated compounds required for advanced scientific research, strategic applications, and frontier technological programmes. The facility will play a vital role in meeting national requirements through the indigenous production of high-purity deuterated solvents, strengthening India's position in critical material production.
The 24 kA Prototype Sodium Cell represents a major technological achievement toward indigenous industrial-scale production of nuclear-grade sodium, which is a critical material for India's Fast Breeder Reactor Programme. Developed through sustained research, engineering excellence, and technological innovation, this facility marks a significant step toward achieving self-reliance in strategic materials required for the second stage of India's three-stage nuclear power programme.
The ceremony was attended by Shri K. N. Vyas, Homi Bhabha Chair Professor and Former Secretary of DAE; Shri V. V. S. A. Prasad, Chairman & Chief Executive of Heavy Water Board; Shri K. V. Tale, Director (Operation/Technical) of Heavy Water Board; and Shri Nitesh Mehta, Officer on Special Duty at HWBF Vadodara, along with senior DAE officials, scientists, engineers, and employees.
These achievements underscore DAE's commitment to technological self-reliance, innovation, and excellence in strategic sectors, supporting India's journey toward Viksit Bharat through indigenous technological advancement and strategic capability development. The facilities align with the national vision of AtmaNirbhar Bharat and contribute to the long-term objectives of the country's nuclear energy programme.