Public understanding of Nuclear Energy: Challenges and Strategies of Science Communication in India

Abstract

Energy is the backbone for sustainable development. Any nation cannot progress without adequate resources of energy i.e. must have energy security. In various sources of generating power, i.e. nuclear, coal, hydro, geothermal, wind, solar, crude oil and biomass etc., nuclear is one of the source of energy which is less understood source of energy among our masses. Many misconceptions and rumours are associated with the nuclear energy like nuclear energy fosters nuclear weapons, nuclear radiation is deadly and nuclear reactors are not safe for human being and environment etc. This technological awareness gap of understanding Nuclear Power is the most challenging area for science and technology communication in India today. India faces formidable challenges in meeting its energy needs and providing adequate energy of desired quality to consumers in a sustainable manner at a reasonable cost. Nuclear power can play a bigger role offering sustainable solution to global energy problems. Those working in nuclear technology field face increasing scrutiny from public, the media, political authorities and NGO’s. This paper deals with the need of science and technology communication on nuclear energy for better understanding on the issue and a communication strategy adopted by Vigyan Prasar under ‘Public Awareness Campaign on Nuclear Energy’ as an important way in which a nation can stave off from the misconceptions, fear and uninformed societies.