INTERACTION TEAM
This series is dedicated to showcasing the remarkable achievements and vital contributions of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and its affiliated institutions. It aims to provide readers with insights into Pakistan’s nuclear advancements, including nuclear science, energy production, healthcare breakthroughs, agricultural innovations, and environmental conservation, all driven by PAEC’s pioneering efforts. The series draws extensively from the insightful book “Johari Nishtar e Tehqeeq,” the first-ever Urdu book on the topic, authored by Chief Editor of the monthly Interaction, Nusrat Mirza. It offers a unique perspective on untold stories, significant milestones, and the unwavering commitment of PAEC and its dedicated scientists and researchers.
The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) is a prominent institution at the forefront of science, technology, and national development in Pakistan. Established in 1956, it has evolved into the country’s largest scientific and governmental organization, with a diverse mission encompassing nuclear research, energy production, healthcare, agriculture, and environmental conservation.
Energy Production: PAEC plays a pivotal role in developing nuclear power plants in Pakistan, such as the Karachi Nuclear Power Complex (K-1, K-2, K-3) and Chashma Nuclear Power Plants (C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4), adding 3600 MW of nuclear power to the national energy grid. It aims to meet ambitious targets of producing 8,800 MW by 2030 and 40,000 MW by 2050.
Medicine: PAEC utilizes nuclear technology for healthcare, offering advanced cancer diagnosis and treatment, radio-pharmaceuticals, and medical isotopes. Its 19 Atomic Energy Cancer Hospitals (AECH) provide critical healthcare services to cancer patients across Pakistan.
Agriculture & Biotechnology: PAEC enhances agriculture productivity through nuclear technology, introducing new crop varieties, pest control methods, plant nutrition, and water management. Over 130 crop varieties have been developed, and education programs for farmers are organized to disseminate knowledge.
Industrial and Environmental Applications: Nuclear technology is employed for industrial processes, environmental monitoring, and sustainable water resource management, contributing to environmental conservation and development.
Nuclear Security: PAEC places a high priority on securing Pakistan’s nuclear assets, implementing stringent security measures and protocols to prevent unauthorized access.
Research and Development: The Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology (PINSTECH) is the epicenter of R&D within PAEC, conducting multidisciplinary research and collaborating with international scientific organizations, including the IAEA.
Education and Training: PAEC has established educational and training institutes like the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Karachi Institute of Power Engineering (KINPOE) and CHASHNUPP Centre of Nuclear Training (CHASCENT) to develop skilled professionals in nuclear science and technology. In summary, PAEC is a vital institution dedicated to harnessing nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, advancing scientific research, and safeguarding the nation’s nuclear assets. It collaborates internationally to ensure nuclear technology’s peaceful use and safety standards.