On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed a significant milestone in India's civil nuclear journey as the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, attained criticality. This achievement is a crucial step in advancing the second stage of India's three-stage nuclear program, which aims to utilize the country's abundant thorium reserves. PM Modi described the PFBR as an advanced reactor that produces more fuel than it consumes, highlighting its technological significance for India's nuclear sector. He congratulated the scientists and engineers who contributed to this project, calling it a proud moment for the nation. The successful operation of the Kalpakkam reactor is expected to bolster India's strategic and civilian nuclear ambitions, reinforcing its capabilities in the global nuclear energy landscape.