India is stepping up efforts to secure uranium supplies from around the world as it prepares for a major expansion of its nuclear power capacity. With domestic uranium production unable to meet future requirements, the country is looking to diversify its sources of nuclear fuel.
Uzbekistan has emerged as an important supplier. India and Uzbekistan signed a contract in 2019 under which state-owned Navoi Mining and Metallurgical Company agreed to supply 1,100 metric tonnes of natural uranium concentrate through 2026. India had received around 600 metric tonnes of the contracted quantity by March 2025, according to parliamentary records.
India is also strengthening uranium ties with Canada and Australia. The wider strategy is aimed at ensuring a more stable and diversified supply of nuclear fuel as the country seeks to expand nuclear energy and reduce dependence on any single supplier.
Beyond buying uranium, India is exploring opportunities to invest directly in overseas uranium mines. Such investments could provide greater control over long-term fuel supplies and reduce exposure to disruptions in global markets.
The uranium push is closely linked to India’s broader nuclear energy ambitions. The country aims to significantly increase nuclear power capacity in the coming decades, making reliable access to nuclear fuel increasingly important.
India is also pursuing thorium-based nuclear technology as a longer-term option, given its substantial domestic thorium resources. However, uranium remains critical for powering the country’s expanding nuclear fleet in the near and medium term.
