The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has launched ATLAS (Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications at Sea) to advance nuclear energy for civilian shipping and floating nuclear power plants. India, along with the US, the UK, France and Japan, is among 26 countries that signed a joint statement supporting it. Advanced reactors such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) could run ships for long periods without refuelling, while floating plants could supply power to coastal and remote areas and offshore industries. Implementation begins in 2026 through six expert groups on safety, security, safeguards and regulation.