India’s energy transition is entering a decisive phase. In this India Energy Week 2026 Energy Special episode of The Core Report, we explore how solar cookers and modular nuclear reactors reflect the scale and ambition of the engineers transforming India’s energy future. Financial Journalist Govindraj Ethiraj speaks with Vartika Shukla, Chairman & MD, Engineers India Limited (EIL), on what it really takes to design, build, and execute the next generation of energy infrastructure.

The conversation moves from cutting the cost and weight of solar cookers for Indian households to India’s readiness for small modular nuclear reactors, a critical piece of reliable and low-carbon power. We also unpack record-breaking work in clean energy and biofuels, including India’s bamboo-based 2G ethanol refinery, the push toward sustainable aviation fuel, and why rising data center power demand is reshaping energy planning across the country.

This special episode, recorded around India Energy Week 2026, offers rare insight into how engineering, policy, capital, and execution come together in real projects, from mega installations in Nigeria to advanced energy investments at home. It is a must-watch for professionals interested in India’s economy, energy security, manufacturing, and the future of infrastructure.

Topics discussed in this episode:

a) Solar cookers and demand-side solutions for energy affordability

b) Modular nuclear reactors and the future of nuclear power in India

c) Bamboo-based 2G ethanol and advanced biofuel technologies

d) Sustainable aviation fuel and ethanol blending beyond road transport

e) Data centers, AI, and India’s next surge in electricity demand

f) Lessons from executing large energy projects in India and overseas

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