Date : 12/09/2023

Relevance: GS Paper 3- Internal Security- Nuclear Policy

Keywords: G-20 Summit, Chandrayaan-3, and the Aditya L-1 mission., No First Use Doctrine

Context-

India's nuclear policy stands as a testament to its commitment to national security and the principles of disarmament. Here, we explore India's nuclear policy, tracing its historical development, highlighting its achievements, and providing an in-depth overview of the country's current military, air force, and navy strength within the global context. Furthermore, we examine India's role in the world, emphasizing its contributions to global peace and security, including recent developments such as the G-20 Summit in 2023, Chandrayaan-3, and the Aditya L-1 mission.

Historical Perspective:

India's nuclear journey began after gaining independence from British rule in 1947. At that time, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru articulated a principled stance on disarmament, advocating for a world without nuclear weapons. India actively participated in global discussions on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.

However, the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, including the Chinese nuclear test in 1964, pushed India to reconsider its nuclear stance. It was under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's leadership that India conducted its first nuclear test, codenamed "Smiling Buddha," in 1974. This event marked a significant turning point in India's nuclear policy, as it demonstrated the country's capability to develop nuclear weapons.

India's nuclear policy was crystallized with the declaration of a "No First Use" (NFU) policy in 1998, stating that India would not be the first to use nuclear weapons in a conflict. This policy aimed to emphasize India's commitment to maintaining a credible minimum deterrent while minimizing the risk of nuclear escalation.

Achievements in Nuclear Capability:

Over the years, India has made significant advancements in its nuclear capability. The successful tests in 1998, codenamed "Operation Shakti," demonstrated India's ability to design and build nuclear weapons. India's nuclear arsenal includes a variety of delivery systems, including ballistic missiles like Agni, Prithvi, and submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) like the K-15 and K-4. Additionally, India has developed a robust command and control infrastructure to ensure the safe and secure handling of its nuclear arsenal.

The development of the Arihant-class submarines marked another milestone in India's nuclear capability. These submarines provide a second-strike capability, enhancing India's deterrence posture. Furthermore, India has invested in developing a credible triad of land, sea, and air-based nuclear delivery systems, further bolstering its nuclear deterrence.

Contributions to Global Peace and Security:

India's nuclear policy goes beyond its national borders, with the country actively participating in international efforts to promote global peace and security. India is not a signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and is committed to the principles of disarmament and non-proliferation. The country has consistently supported efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and to reduce existing nuclear arsenals.

India has also played a vital role in promoting regional stability in South Asia. The signing of the Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement in 2005 marked a significant step in India's integration into the global nuclear order. This agreement recognized India as a responsible nuclear power and allowed for civilian nuclear cooperation with other nations.

Furthermore, India has worked to foster regional cooperation and confidence-building measures in South Asia through initiatives like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). These efforts reflect India's commitment to using its nuclear capabilities for the broader goal of regional and global peace.

Recent Developments:

In 2023, India hosted the G-20 Summit, a gathering of major economies aimed at addressing global economic challenges. The summit provided India with an opportunity to assert its influence on the world stage and engage in crucial discussions on economic stability and cooperation.

India's space endeavors have also gained international recognition. The Chandrayaan-3 mission, set to follow the successful Chandrayaan-2 lunar mission, demonstrates India's commitment to advancing space exploration and research. Additionally, the Aditya L-1 mission, focused on studying the Sun, highlights India's growing presence in space science.

Current Global Military, Air Force, and Navy Strength:

To understand India's nuclear policy in the context of its broader military strength, it is essential to assess the country's current capabilities in its military, air force, and navy.

Military Strength:

India boasts one of the world's largest standing armies, with approximately 1.3 million active-duty personnel. Its ground forces are equipped with modern tanks, artillery, and infantry equipment. Additionally, India has been actively engaged in upgrading its military technology through indigenous research and development programs.

Air Force Strength:

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is a formidable component of India's defense. It boasts a diverse fleet of aircraft, including fighter jets like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and the recently inducted Rafale jets. India is also developing its indigenous Tejas fighter aircraft, which adds to its air force's capabilities. The IAF is crucial for maintaining air superiority and supporting ground forces in any conflict scenario.

Navy Strength:

The Indian Navy has evolved into a blue-water navy capable of operating far beyond its territorial waters. It operates a variety of vessels, including aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates, and submarines. The commissioning of the INS Vikramaditya and the ongoing development of the INS Vikrant signify India's commitment to naval power projection. Additionally, India has invested in nuclear-powered submarines, strengthening its underwater deterrence capabilities.

Conclusion:

India's nuclear policy, developed over the years, remains a testament to its commitment to national security and responsible nuclear behavior. The "No First Use" policy, recent developments like the G-20 Summit, Chandrayaan-3, and the Aditya L-1 mission, and its robust military, air force, and navy further underscore India's role in shaping the future of international relations and global stability.

As India continues to adapt its nuclear policy to address evolving security challenges, it remains dedicated to the principles of disarmament, non-proliferation, and global cooperation. Through its multifaceted contributions to global peace and security, India stands as a key player on the world stage, working toward a safer and more stable world.

Source - The Indian Express