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June 2025

Interview Preparation Document

(Prepare with YourPedia Mentors)

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 HR PYQ
Interview Preparation Document

Let’s Prepare Well for Interviews

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 HR PYQ
Why do you want to join NPCIL?
This is the MOST important and sure question to be asked during interview. It can be answered in many
different ways based upon your interest and background. Pick up important points from these provided
below to frame best personal answer for this most important HR question:

National Contribution:
 NPCIL plays a vital role in India’s energy security by providing clean, reliable nuclear power.
 I want to be part of an organization contributing to sustainable development and reducing
carbon emissions.

Technological Excellence:
 NPCIL is at the forefront of advanced reactor technologies like IPHWR-700 and upcoming fleet
mode construction.
 Being an engineer/researcher here offers exposure to cutting-edge nuclear science and
technology.

Pride and Prestige:

 Working for NPCIL, a prestigious and strategic sector organization under the Department of
Atomic Energy (DAE), brings a sense of pride and responsibility.

Professional Growth:
 NPCIL emphasizes continuous learning, training programs, and technical skill enhancement.
 Opportunities to work in multidisciplinary teams across engineering, safety, and project
management.

Job Stability and Work Culture:

 As a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), NPCIL offers excellent job stability and a disciplined work
culture.

Innovation and R&D Opportunities:

 Involvement in indigenous reactor development, safety upgrades, and collaboration with
international nuclear agencies.
 Scope to contribute to research in reactor design, nuclear safety, and next-generation nuclear
systems.

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Social Responsibility:
 NPCIL actively engages in community development, education, and welfare near project sites.
 Being part of such initiatives would allow me to serve society beyond professional
responsibilities.

Long-Term Career Path:

 NPCIL provides structured career progression, leadership opportunities, and recognition for
technical expertise.
 I seek a long-term career where my efforts contribute to both personal and national growth.

Personal Interest & Passion

 I have strong personal interest and passion to be part of such reputed organisation working on
nuclear technology which eventually help country becoming self-reliant in energy domain

Why do you want to join PSU?

This is equally important question asked in almost every interview of PSU. Interviewer is expecting
answer reflecting your passion and personal inclination and suitability for PSU jobs. This question is
somewhere asking you why only PSU and not Private sector job? The answer should certainly NOT
criticise private sector jobs. Answer can be based upon the contribution of PSU in nation building and
your sense of pride and satisfaction being part of these. Answer should mention why PSU job is your
passion and priority & how can you be an asset in the organisation.

Pick up some points from the mentioned below & try to frame your best answer. Go through snap with
mentors of YourPedia to practice the answer. Not only it is important to tell the content but also the
way it is delivered is very important which further comes with lot of practice.

PSUs are Best Employers

 PSUs offer you everything which you can think of as an employee: Prestige, satisfaction,
growth, skill, work culture, stability & security, salary & long-term care
 It is well established fact that in India, the BEST Jobs are in PSUs & I want to get the BEST job

National Contribution & Service:

 PSUs contribute directly to national growth, infrastructure development, and public welfare.
These are precious national asset dedicated to the service of nation and becoming part of such
organisation will be matter of pride and satisfaction
 I want my skills and efforts to benefit the country & its people in a meaningful way.

Job Stability and Security:

 PSUs offer long-term job stability, which is important in today’s dynamic job market. Post
Covid, the focus on Job security is one of the main points considered while joining any
organisation
 The structured policies and systems provide a secure working environment.

Professional Growth Opportunities:

 PSUs provide excellent training programs, leadership development, and opportunities to
handle large-scale, impactful projects.

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Healthy Work Culture:
 PSUs are known for their transparent, ethical, and structured organizational environment,
aligning with my values.
 Opportunity to work with the BEST Minds and professional people with vast experience and
learning

Attractive Salary and Benefits:

 Competitive pay scales, medical benefits, pension schemes, allowances, and other welfare
measures make PSUs financially attractive.

Exposure to Diverse Fields:

 PSUs operate across critical sectors like energy, manufacturing, defense, transportation, etc.,
offering wide learning and growth opportunities.

Prestige and Pride:

 Being part of a reputed PSU brings a sense of pride, respect, and recognition in society.

Opportunities for Social Contribution:

 PSUs often engage in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, giving me a chance to
contribute to community welfare.

Strong Career Progression:

 Clear promotion policies based on merit and seniority offer a well-defined career path.

What do you know about NPCIL?

Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) is a Public Sector Enterprise under the
administrative control of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India. The Company
was registered as a Public Limited Company under the Companies Act, 1956 in September 1987 with
the objectives of operating atomic power plants and implementing atomic power projects for
generation of electricity in pursuance of the schemes and programmes of the Government of India
under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. NPCIL also has equity participation in BHAVINI, another PSU of
Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) which implements Fast Breeder Reactors programme in the
country.

How many power plants NPCIL has in India?

NPCIL is responsible for design, construction, commissioning and operation of nuclear power reactors.
NPCIL is presently operating 24 commercial nuclear power reactors with an installed capacity of 8180
MW. The reactor fleet comprises two Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs), 20 Pressurised Heavy Water
Reactors (PHWRs) including one 100 MW PHWR at Rajasthan which is owned by DAE, Government of
India and two VVER reactors of 1000 MW capacity each. NPCIL has 8 more reactors under construction
with a total capacity of 6800 MW.

What is Moto of NPCIL?

The motto of NPCIL is ‘safety first and production next’.

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 Tell about Vision & Mission of NPCIL

Vision
“To be globally proficient in nuclear power technology, contributing towards long term energy security
of the country.”

Mission
The Mission of the Company is ‘To develop nuclear power technology and to produce nuclear power
as a safe, environmentally benign and economically viable source of electrical energy to meet the
increasing electricity needs of the country'.

Details of NPCIL power plants

(Operating Units/Under Construction/Sanctioned)
Operating Units:
 Tarapur Atomic Power Station Units-1&2 (2x160 MW BWRs),
 Tarapur Atomic Power Station Units-3&4 (2x540 MW PHWRs),
 Rajasthan Atomic Power Station Units 1to6 (RAPS-1 100 MW, RAPS-2 200 MW and RAPS-
3to6,4x220 MW PHWRs),
 Madras Atomic Power Station Units-1&2 (2x220 MW PHWRs),
 Narora Atomic Power Station Units-1&2 (2x220 MW PHWRs),
 Kakrapar Atomic Power Station Units-1&2 (2x220 MW PHWRs),
 Kaiga Generating Station Unit-1 to 4 (4x220 MW PHWRs) and
 Kudankulam Nuclear Power Station Unit-1&2 (2x1000 MW VVER)
 Kakrapar Atomic Power Station Unit-3&4 (2x700 MW PHWRs)
In addition, NPCIL also has a 10 MW Wind Power Plant at Kudankulam site.

The units under construction are:

 Rajasthan Atomic Power Project Units-7&8 (2x700 MW PHWRs)
 Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidhyut Pariyojna Units-1&2 (2x700 MW PHWRs)
 Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project Unit-3&4 (2x1000 MW VVER)
 Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project Unit-5&6 (2x1000 MW VVER)

Project Sanctioned
In addition to these, Government of India have accorded administrative approval and financial sanction
for ten PHWR units to be set up in fleet mode with unit size of 700 MW each at Kaiga Unit-5&6, (Kaiga,
Karnataka) Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidhyut Pariyojna Unit-3&4 (Gorakhpur, Haryana), Chutka Madhya
Pradesh Atomic Power Project Unit 1&2 (Chutka,Madhya Pradesh) and Mahi Banswara Rajasthan
Atomic Power Project Unit-1 to 4 (Mahi Banswara, Rajasthan).

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 What is overall availability factor of NPCIL power plants?

 Commercial generation by all units of NPCIL in the financial year (FY) 2023-24 was 47971 MUs.
In addition, 830 MU of infirm power was also generated during the year. MU stands for Million
Units of electricity. 1 Unit = 1 kWh (kilowatt-hour).
 NPCIL has set several records in the safe operation of nuclear power plants. So far NPCIL has
consistently maintained overall availability factor of reactors above 80% for several years.

What are fleet mode reactors of NPCIL?

The Government of India has accorded administrative approval and financial sanction for construction
of 10 indigenous 700MW PHWRs in Fleet Mode. Various preparatory activities such as land acquisition
and R&R, Environmental clearance, procurement activities, regulatory clearances, site infrastructure
development, public outreach, tendering, etc. are in various stages of progress.

NPCIL and the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) have approved ten identical IPHWR-700 reactors
(7,000 MWe) under fleet mode, planned at four sites:

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 What other job opportunity do you have?

As of now I am aspiring to be part of some prestigious PSU jobs and writing various exams. NPCIL is my
first priority & this is the only option & the BEST one as of now.

NPCIL plants are in remote locations. How shall you adapt to that?

 I am mentally prepared and aware that nuclear plants are typically located in remote areas
 I see it as a part of the job’s responsibility and mission.
 I will utilize the time to upgrade my knowledge through certifications, learning modules, and
on-site experience.
 I look forward to building strong bonds with my colleagues and the local community.
 Engaging in social and recreational activities
 NPCIL provides good residential facilities, healthcare, and recreational options
 This infrastructure will help ease the transition and provide a comfortable living environment.
 My primary goal is to contribute effectively to the organization.
 Remote locations offer peace and less stress, allowing time for personal hobbies like reading,
fitness, and self-improvement.
 With modern communication technology, staying connected with family and friends has
become much easier.
 This will help in maintaining emotional and mental balance.
 I see the initial remote posting as a stepping stone for future growth within the organization.
 Adaptability is crucial for building a long-term career in a reputed organization like NPCIL.

Are you ready to relocate to south India?

 Yes, surely as I have travelled south India and I personally like the south Indian places and cities
& people are very supportive, humble, simple and kind

What about language problem if you get posted in South?

 I will initially manage with either Hindi or English & slowly but regularly learn the local
language to adapt with local people.

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 India’s Nuclear policy

Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy:

 India’s nuclear program is guided by the principle of using nuclear energy for peaceful
purposes only — in power generation, agriculture, medicine, and industry.
 This policy stems from the vision of Dr. Homi Bhabha, the architect of India’s nuclear program.
Three-Stage Nuclear Power Program:
 Stage 1: Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) using natural uranium.
 Stage 2: Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) using plutonium from Stage 1 reactors.
 Stage 3: Thorium-based reactors, utilizing India’s abundant thorium reserves.
No First Use (NFU) Nuclear Doctrine:
 India maintains a "No First Use" policy, pledging not to use nuclear weapons unless first
attacked by an adversary using nuclear arms.
 Nuclear weapons are seen purely as a deterrent.
Credible Minimum Deterrence:
 India’s nuclear posture is based on maintaining a minimum credible deterrent — sufficient to
deter adversaries but not seeking nuclear superiority.
 Focus is on survivable second-strike capability (land, air, sea — triad).
Separation of Civil and Military Nuclear Facilities:
 Post the 2005 India–US Civil Nuclear Agreement, India separated civilian and military nuclear
programs.
 Civilian reactors are under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards.
Nuclear Non-Proliferation Policy:
 Although India is not a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), it follows
strong non-proliferation practices.
 India advocates global nuclear disarmament and responsible stewardship.
International Engagement:
 Member of key nuclear control regimes like the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR),
Wassenaar Arrangement, and Australia Group.
 Actively seeking membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
Focus on Indigenous Development:
 India emphasizes self-reliance in nuclear technology through organizations like NPCIL, BARC,
and BHAVINI.
 Initiatives like fleet mode reactor construction and thorium research are part of this policy.
Environmental and Safety Commitment:
 Strict adherence to safety, security, and environmental protocols in all nuclear installations.
 Follows international best practices to ensure public and environmental safety.

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 What do you know about radiation hazards in nuclear power plants?

1. What is Radiation Hazard?

 Radiation hazard refers to the potential harmful effects of exposure to ionizing radiation (like
alpha, beta, gamma, and neutron radiation) emitted from nuclear materials used in power
plants.
 If not properly managed, radiation can damage living tissues, leading to health risks like
radiation sickness, cancer, and genetic damage.

2. Sources of Radiation in Nuclear Power Plants

 Fuel rods (uranium, plutonium) inside the reactor core.
 Coolant and moderator systems that may become radioactive.
 Spent fuel and radioactive waste generated during reactor operation.
 Radiation leaks due to equipment failure or accidents (though extremely rare due to strong
safeguards).

3. Effects of Radiation Exposure

 Acute effects: Nausea, burns, and radiation sickness at high exposure levels.
 Chronic effects: Increased cancer risk and genetic mutations with long-term, low-level
exposure.
 Environmental effects: Contamination of air, water, and soil in extreme cases if not contained.

4. Safety Measures Against Radiation Hazards

 Multiple barriers: Fuel cladding, reactor pressure vessel, containment structures prevent
radiation release.
 Shielding: Thick concrete walls and biological shields to block radiation.
 Remote handling: Use of robots or remote-operated tools for highly radioactive tasks.
 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Dosimeters, lead aprons, and radiation suits for workers.
 Continuous monitoring: Real-time radiation monitoring within and around the plant.
 Emergency protocols: Detailed evacuation and containment procedures in place.

5. Regulatory and Design Safeguards

 Plants operate under strict regulations by authorities like the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board
(AERB).
 Designs follow defense-in-depth principles — multiple redundant systems to ensure safety.
 Regular drills and training for workers on radiation safety.

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 How shall you address public resistance at nuclear plant station?

Some points to frame your answer:

 Share clear, honest information with resisting people about the plant’s safety measures,
radiation control, and emergency preparedness.
 Organize open houses, site visits, and public seminars to demystify nuclear energy.
 Educate the community on the benefits of nuclear energy — clean energy, energy security, low
carbon emissions.
 Highlight the plant’s contributions to local development — employment, infrastructure,
schools, healthcare.
 Explain the multi-layered safety systems (defense-in-depth design) in simple terms.
 Share track records of safe operations at other nuclear plants in India and around the world.
 Engage local community leaders, NGOs, and educators who can influence and reassure the
public.
 Form public liaison committees to create a two-way communication channel between plant
management and residents.
 Conduct mock drills involving local residents to build confidence in safety protocols.
 Show the availability of emergency response teams and medical facilities.
 Invest in CSR activities: better roads, schools, hospitals, drinking water, vocational training.
 Make the local population see tangible economic and social benefits from the project.
 Set up grievance redressal systems where residents can voice concerns and get quick
responses.
 Regular feedback sessions to make the community feel heard and involved.
 Use media responsibly to spread correct information and counter misinformation or fear.

Safety of nuclear power plants

1. Defense-in-Depth Philosophy
 Multiple independent and redundant safety systems are built into the plant design.
 Safety is layered: from fuel cladding, reactor vessel, containment building, to emergency
shutdown systems.
 Prevents single-point failures from escalating into accidents.

2. Reactor Safety Systems

 Control Rods: Rapidly inserted to shut down the reactor in case of anomalies (SCRAM).
 Coolant Systems: Multiple, independent cooling systems to remove heat even under failure
conditions.
 Containment Building: Thick concrete and steel structures prevent any radioactive leak to the
environment.

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3. Passive Safety Features
 Modern reactors have passive safety systems that rely on natural forces like gravity, natural
circulation, and condensation — functioning without human intervention or external power.

4. Radiation Shielding and Monitoring

 Thick shielding around the reactor core protects workers and the public from radiation.
 Continuous radiation monitoring inside and outside the plant ensures early detection of any
anomaly.
5. Emergency Preparedness and Response
 Detailed Emergency Operating Procedures (EOPs) and disaster management plans are in place.
 Regular mock drills with plant staff and local authorities prepare for unlikely emergency
scenarios.
 Emergency shelters and iodine tablets are pre-arranged in nearby areas as precautionary
measures.

6. Regulatory Oversight
 In India, the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) enforces strict safety regulations at every
stage — design, construction, commissioning, and operation.
 International bodies like IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) provide safety standards
and peer reviews.

7. Lessons from Past Incidents

 Global incidents (like Chernobyl, Fukushima) have led to enhanced designs with greater
emphasis on:
 Natural disaster resistance (earthquake, tsunami protection).
 Core Catchers and Filtered Containment Venting Systems in modern plants.

8. Security Systems
 Physical security through restricted access zones, surveillance, and armed forces.
 Cybersecurity measures to protect control systems from cyberattacks.

Present situation of nuclear power in India

1. Installed Capacity
 As of 31 March 2025, India had a total installed electric generation capacity of 467.9 GW, of
which nuclear constituted 8.08 GW (1.7%)
 There are 25 operational reactors totalling 8.88 GW, with 11 reactors (8.7 GW) under
construction
2. Share in Power Generation
 Nuclear energy contributes about 3% of India’s total electricity production
 Nuclear generation rose from 34,228 MUs in FY 2013–14 to 47,971 MUs in FY 2023–24—a
40% increase
3. Growth and Targets
 Installed nuclear capacity nearly doubled from 4.78 GW in 2014 to 8.18 GW in 2024
 Plans aim to expand to 22.48 GW by 2031–32, and an ambitious goal of 100 GW by 2047
 The government targets zero-carbon electricity by 50% non-fossil sources by 2030, with
nuclear expected to play a critical role
4. Role in Energy Transition
 Nuclear is considered a reliable, clean baseload complementing renewables (solar, wind),
which make up a larger share
 Challenges remain: high capital costs, longer construction times, public opposition, and
regulatory hurdles

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 Who is Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission?

 Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty is the Chairperson, Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) & Secretary,
Department of Atomic Energy (DAE)
 Shri Bhuwan Chandra Pathak is currently serving as the CMD of NPCIL.

Under which department or ministry NPCIL comes?

 Department of Atomic Energy (DAE)

 DAE is directly under the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) of India.
 The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) oversees DAE, and DAE controls NPCIL along with other
nuclear organizations like BARC (Bhabha Atomic Research Centre) and IGCAR (Indira Gandhi
Centre for Atomic Research).

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 How Shall You Choose a New Site for a Nuclear Power Station?

1. Seismic and Geological Stability

 Select areas with low seismic activity (low earthquake risk) and stable geological conditions.
 Avoid areas prone to earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides, or flooding.

2. Availability of Cooling Water

 Nuclear plants require large amounts of water for cooling.
 Proximity to rivers, lakes, or seashores (preferably with consistent water availability) is
essential.

3. Low Population Density

 Prefer low population zones to minimize risk to the public in case of an emergency.
 Regulatory agencies like AERB specify minimum population exclusion zones around the plant
(e.g., 1.5 km sterilized zone, 5–16 km emergency planning zones).

4. Accessibility and Infrastructure

 Good transportation access (road, rail, and port facilities) for bringing in heavy equipment and
materials.
 Availability of power evacuation infrastructure (like nearby substations and grid connectivity)
to transmit generated electricity.

5. Environmental Impact
 Conduct thorough Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA).
 Ensure minimal impact on wildlife, forests, marine life, and agricultural land.
 Compliance with MoEFCC (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change) regulations is
mandatory.

6. Security Considerations
 The site should be secure against potential sabotage, terrorism, and natural disasters.
 Remote but not completely isolated — strategic location balancing access and security.

7. Meteorological Conditions
 Analyze wind patterns, rainfall, temperature, and extreme weather risks.
 Favorable meteorological conditions are necessary for safe operations and containment of
radiation in case of an incident.

8. Regulatory and Legal Compliance

 The site must comply with guidelines laid down by:
 Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB)
 International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recommendations.
 National and State-level environmental laws.

9. Public Acceptance
 Community support is crucial.
 Engage with the local population early to address concerns and build trust through transparent
communication.

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