New Delhi, March 27 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he considered nuclear energy vital for supporting economic development in India.

During a meeting with visiting International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Yukiya Amano, Modi said he considered nuclear energy to be vital for also meeting the energy needs of the people and addressing the challenge of climate change.

He sought to place special emphasis on using atomic science for addressing the needs of ordinary citizens, by application in areas like healthcare, agriculture, food preservation, clean water and waste management and reiterated India's commitment to maintaining the highest global standards of nuclear safety and security.

Lauding IAEA for its enormous contribution to the promotion of safe and secure use of atomic science for peace and development in the world - goals that India shared, Modi attached special importance to its crucial role in generating public awareness and confidence on safety aspects and in supporting efforts to make nuclear power more affordable.

Amano expressed appreciation and admiration for India's progress in nuclear science and technology, focus on developmental aspects, commitment to the highest levels of safety and security standards, and record as a responsible nuclear power.