A research reactor with a thermal power rating of a few megawatts has all the systems of a power reactor except those that are related to raising steam and operating the turbine generator for producing electricity. Therefore a research reactor would serve well for personnel to obtain a good under­standing of the intricacies and complexities of controlling the fission chain reaction and the overall operational management of a nuclear reactor.

Training in the conventional engineering part of a NPP can be imparted in large-sized fossil-fuelled electricity generating plants in the country. A research reactor also forms a nucleus around which several scientific and engineering laboratories get established to create a multidisciplinary research centre. Such a centre would then serve as the nodal technical organization to support the nuclear power programme in the long run.

The experience gained in design, construction and operation of a research reactor is extremely helpful in developing a sound foundation for the nuclear power programme. The personnel trained in a research reactor are able to quickly assimilate the knowledge required for operating a NPP and thus a good cadre of well-trained personnel can be created in a reasonably short time for managing the nuclear power programme in the country. Operating a research reactor also gives a boost for establishing the safety culture that is so essential for the success of the future nuclear power pro­gramme. It is perhaps for this reason that all countries operating nuclear power plants today started their nuclear activities by first establishing a research reactor.

A research reactor facilitates production of radioisotopes that are exten­sively used in medical, industrial and other applications. This provides a good opportunity for establishing facilities for preparing targets for irradia­tion in the reactor, processing of the irradiated materials for producing sealed sources and radiopharmaceuticals, transportation of radioisotopes and their various medical and industrial applications for societal benefit. In a way this beneficial aspect of nuclear energy helps in conditioning the public mind towards acceptance of nuclear power subsequently.

Personnel with experience in operation and management of a research reactor can be readily inducted in the regulatory functions and this helps in early establishment of the regulatory body with competent staff.