50 years to Pokhran-1

 

50 years to Pokhran-1

§     Post-World War II Era: Following the end of World War II in 1945, new global alliances and alignments emerged amidst the Cold War between the US and USSR.

Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT):

§     Signed in 1968 and entered into force in 1970, the NPT aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote disarmament.

§     It divides the world into nuclear-weapon states (NWS), recognized as possessing nuclear weapons at the time of the treaty’s signing, and non-nuclear-weapon states (NNWS), which agree not to develop or acquire nuclear weapons.

§     It requires NWS to pursue disarmament negotiations in good faith.

India’s Discontent:

§     India refused to sign the NPT due to its failure to address India’s concerns about the discriminatory nature of the treaty, particularly regarding non-nuclear states’ obligations.

Why did India choose to conduct nuclear tests?

§     Discontent with NPT: India viewed the NPT as discriminatory towards non-nuclear states like itself, leading to its decision to conduct nuclear tests independently.

§     Domestic Developments: Indian scientists, notably Homi J Bhabha and Vikram Sarabhai, laid the groundwork for nuclear energy in India. The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) was established in 1954.

§     The shift in Leadership and Geopolitical Climate: Changes in leadership post-1960s, coupled with conflicts with China and Pakistan, influenced India’s decision to pursue nuclear capabilities. China’s nuclear tests in 1964 also played a role.

What happened after?

1.International Reaction:

India faced criticism and sanctions from various countries, including the US, following the tests. The US enacted the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Act in 1978, halting nuclear assistance to India.

2.Strategic Shift:

Despite international criticism, India asserted itself as a nuclear-capable nation, paving the way for future developments like Pokhran-II in 1998.

3.Long-term Impact:

India’s nuclear tests marked a significant milestone in its defence and foreign policy, shaping its stance on nuclear issues and its position in global nuclear politics.

4.Diplomatic Efforts:

 India sought acceptance as a responsible nuclear power and aimed to join international groups like the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), facing resistance from some countries, notably China.

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