India’s Nuclear Policy

August 27, 2024

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India’s nuclear policy has evolved significantly since the country’s first nuclear test in 1974, named "Smiling Buddha." This evolution was influenced by a variety of factors, such as geopolitical realities and security threats, domestic politics and international relations. This article will explore the main components of India’s nucleus policy, including its historical context and strategic objectives.

Historical Context

The Origins of India’s Nuclear Program

1960s BeginningsIndia’s nuclear ambitions started in the 1950s, when it sought to harness the power of nuclear energy for peaceful uses.

Smiling Buddha (1974)India conducted its first nuclear test in Pokhran (Rajasthan), marking the country’s entry into a group of nuclear-capable countries, triggering a regional arms races.

Post-Nuclear Tests of 1998India declared itself a nuclear-weapon state in May 1998 after a series test.

Legislative Framework

Nuclear Weapons Amendment Act, 1989This act formalized India’s nuclear deterrent capability.

Nuclear Liability Act (2010India has established liability standards for nuclear incidents that reflect its commitment to safety.

The Key Components in India’s Nuclear Policy

1. No First Use (NFU Policy)

Commitment to NFUIndia has adopted the NFU policy, which states that it won’t use nuclear weapons in conflict.

JustificationThis policy aims at reducing the risk of a nuclear conflict and promoting restraint.

2. Credible Minimum Deterrence

Strategic DirectionThe concept of credible minimal deterrence means maintaining an arsenal sufficient to deter enemies without engaging in a arms race.

Diversified Delivery SystemsIndia has developed several delivery systems. These include ballistic missiles as well as aircraft and missiles launched from submarines.

3. Focus on Non-Proliferation

Support for Global DisarmamentIndia is a proponent of complete nuclear disarmament worldwide, while maintaining its own arsenal.

Participation in International TreatiesIndia, despite not being a signatory of the Non-Proliferation Treaty(NPT), is actively seeking to take part in non-proliferation discussion.

4. Indigenization and Self Reliance

Domestic CapabilitiesIndia’s nuclear policy is based on the development of indigenous systems and technologies for weapons and delivery platforms.

Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India)Aims at boosting local manufacturing and technology in the defense sector.

Nuclear Doctrine and Strategy

1. Strategic Forces Command

EstablishmentThe SFC was established to ensure command and control in India of its nuclear capability.

Organisational StructureThe SFC is an independent organization that operates under the National Command Authority.

2. National Command Authority

Two-Tier StructureThe NCA includes both the Political Council (Political Council) and the Executive Council (Executive Council), which streamlines the decision-making process on nuclear issues.

Advisory RoleThe NCA is the advisor to the Prime Minister and cabinet on all matters relating to nuclear strategy and policy.

3. Counterstrike Capability

Surviving a Second StrikeIndia’s strategy includes the development of a viable second strike capability, including nuclear submarines and missiles from the Agni Series.

Non-Proliferation and International Relations

1. Engagement with Major Powers

United StatesThe U.S. India Civil Nuclear Agreement of 2008 marked a significant change in Indo-U.S. relationships, allowing India access to civil nuclear technology without compromising India’s nuclear status.

RussiaIndia and Russia have strong ties, particularly when it comes to the collaboration in the nuclear sector and defense.

2. Regional Dynamics

ChinaIndia’s deterrence strategy is based on its concern over China’s aggressive posture and nuclear capabilities.

PakistanIndia’s nuclear doctrine is heavily influenced and shaped by the rivalry it has with Pakistan. This was especially true after Pakistan performed its own nuclear test in 1998.

3. Non-committal NPT

NPT StanceIndia’s refusal of signing the NPT is based on the belief that the NPT perpetuates the division between nuclear states and non-nuclear ones.

Strategic AlliancesIndia has tried to strengthen its relations with other nuclear countries in order to boost its security.

Nuclear Deterrence

1. Deterrence Philosophy

Psychological ImpactThe belief that credible nuclear weapons deter war.

Extended DeterrenceIndia extends its umbrella of deterrence in the region to allies.

2. Delivery Systems

Land-based MissilesAgni-Prithvi missiles are India’s backbone for land-based nuclear capabilities.

Airborne SystemsIndia’s strategic reach is increased by aircraft such as the Mirage 2000, Su-30 MKI and Su-30 MKI with nuclear payloads.

Nuclear SubmarinesThe Arihant subclass is designed to offer a survivable capability for a second strike on the sea.

Case Studies on Indo-Pak Relations

1. Kargil conflict (1999)

Nuclear UnderpinningsThe Kargil War was a good example of the deterrent role played by nuclear weapons.

2. 2001 Indian Parliament Attack

Tensions are risingThe attack sparked fears of a nuclear crisis in South Asia, showing the hot spots for nuclear war.

3. Airstrike in Balakot, 2019

Pre-emptive actionIndia’s decision after the Pulwama attacks to launch a surgical attack tested the limits for nuclear deterrence against cross-border terrorists.

Domestic Discourse

1. Political Consensus

Bipartisan SupportThe policy of nuclear weapons has been generally supported by all major political parties despite some differences in their strategic views.

2. Public Awareness

Nuclear KnowledgePublic debate is impacted by the limited level of knowledge about nuclear issues.

3. Civil Society Engagement

Advocacy GroupsDiverse NGOs and organizations of the civil society have expressed concerns over safety, security and the long-term viability of nuclear policies.

India’s Nuclear Policy: Challenges

1. Security Dilemma

Arms RaceIndia may be prompted to escalate its capability due to the regional arms competition between Pakistan and China, which could challenge the NFU doctrine.

2. Global Non-Proliferation Norms

International PressureIndia is still under scrutiny by global non-proliferation laws, despite its efforts to be recognized as a responsible nuclear nation.

3. Internal Security Threats

TerrorismExtremist groups could target India’s nucleonic facilities.

You can also read our conclusion.

India’s nucleus policy is multifaceted, complex, and reflects its strategic imperatives, dynamics in the region, and international relationships. India’s commitment towards a non-first-use nuclear policy, credible minimal deterrence and self-reliance are what make it unique as a nuclear weapons state. India is navigating its way with resilience despite the challenges that this policy faces. The country strives to balance security and global disarmament.

FAQs

Q1 What is India’s position on disarmament of nuclear weapons?

A1India supports complete nuclear disarmament globally while maintaining a nuclear arsenal for deterrence.

Q2 Why does India have a policy of no first use?

A2India’s policy of no first-use aims to reduce nuclear conflict risks and promote restraint. It positions India as a nuclear power that is responsible.

Q3 What are India’s main nuclear delivery system?

A3India uses a variety of delivery systems including missiles such as the Agni, Prithvi and Mirage 2000, aircraft like Su-30 MKI and missiles launched from submarines in its Arihant class.

Q4: Does India sign the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)?

A4India has not signed the NPT. They oppose it as it perpetuates an artificial divide between states with nuclear weapons and those without.

Q5: What impact does India’s nuclear policies have on relations with Pakistan

A5India’s nuclear policies significantly shape its strategic interactions and relationships with Pakistan. This creates a deterrence based dynamic that is reflected in their rivalry.

Q6. What role does international alliances have in India’s nuclear policy?

A6India’s nuclear capability is strengthened by international alliances with the U.S., Russia and other countries.

Q7: How can India improve its nuclear policy in the face of these challenges?

A7The key challenges are the dynamics of regional arms races, pressures imposed by global non-proliferation standards, and threats posed by terrorism against nuclear facilities.

Q8: What is the Indian nuclear arsenal’s safety and security?

A8India places a high priority on a robust infrastructure for command and controls, stringent safety protocols, as well as comprehensive security measures, to protect its arsenal of nuclear weapons.

Q9: What is meant by "credible minimum deterrence" in India’s policy?

A9The term “credible minimum deterrence” refers to the maintenance of a nuclear arsenal sufficient to deter enemies without engaging in a race to arms, while ensuring stability and preventing conflict escalate.

Q10: What is the impact of public opinion on India’s nuclear policies?

A10While the general public is not well-informed about nuclear issues, they tend to support government policy on maintaining nuclear weapons for national security.

This article presents a comprehensive view of India’s nuclear policy. It discusses its origins, its fundamental principles, as well as the complex interplay between strategic, political and social factors that have influenced its evolution.