---
title: "Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR), Kalpakkam — Explained"
description: "The PFBR at Kalpakkam is India's 500 MWe sodium-cooled fast breeder reactor and Stage II of the three-stage nuclear programme—key to the thorium endgame."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/prototype-fast-breeder-reactor"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor is a 500 MWe sodium-cooled fast neutron reactor at Kalpakkam designed to breed more fissile material than it consumes.
- How does the PFBR fit into India's three-stage nuclear programme?
- Why does the PFBR use liquid sodium instead of water as coolant?
- What is the difference between the PFBR and the FBTR at Kalpakkam?
- Is the PFBR under IAEA safeguards?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In March 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kalpakkam to witness the start of core fuel-loading at the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor, marking the criticality milestone of BHAVINI's long-delayed 500 MWe project.

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