Laser tech meet begins at RRCAT

Indore: Integrating laser-based non-destructive testing and material characterization with additive manufacturing holds tremendous promise for the nuclear sector, said Dr Komal Kapoor, chief executive of Nuclear Fuel Complex, Hyderabad, DAE, as he inaugurated the two-day national theme meeting on "Laser Technology for Nuclear Applications (LTNA -2025)" at the Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT), Indore, on Friday. Dr Kapoor in his address spoke about how the fusion of precision laser tools with emerging fabrication technologies could enhance the safety, reliability, and efficiency of nuclear fuel production. He praised RRCAT's consistent contributions in developing such advanced systems under the DAE, and encouraged deeper collaboration between research institutions and nuclear facilities.Sanjay Kumar Malviya, site director of the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL), attended as Guest of Honour. He spoke on the operational significance of lasers in maintaining and refurbishing nuclear power plants and outlined NPCIL's future requirements for laser technologies.RRCAT director Dr Unmesh D Malshe, who presided over the session, underscored the importance of additive manufacturing and advanced laser systems in achieving national development goals and fostering innovation in indigenous technology. Chairman of LTNA-2025, Dr Sudhir Kumar Dixit, shared case studies on successful laser system deployments across various DAE units. The welcome address was delivered by convener Shri Piyush Saxena, while Secretary Shri Praveen Agrawal proposed the vote of thanks. The conference will continue on Saturday, promoting collaboration and knowledge-sharing in laser applications for India's growing nuclear science and energy landscape.