INDIO-US NUCLEAR AGREEMENT

HISTORY
The history of Indian Nuclear Technology and its advancement started in 1950 when the US built a nuclear reactor for India as part of it’s “ATOM FOR PEACE” program.
India refused to sign the NPT in 1968.Thereafter India tested its first Nuclear weapon in 1974.
Since 2000 strategic Indo-US Nuclear relationship reached a new height and in August 2007,Indo-US Bilateral agreement envisioned in July 2005 by Mr.Manmohan Singh,Honorable Prime Minister of India & His Excellency,Mr.George W Bush,The US President finally took shape.

What is 123 Agreement all about?
IAEA to have access to Civilian Nuclear facilities in India.14 out of 22 facilities to be under scanner of the watchdog.
Additional safeguard procedure to be signed by India.

Advantages for India

1.India strategically closer to US on matters of terrorism.
2.India gets to use Dual- use Nuclear Technology-Material used to enrich Uranium or reprocess Plutonium.
India to have 40,000 MW Nuclear power production by 2020 against present 1950 MW being produced against installed capacity of 4000 MW.


Objection to the agreement by other nations

Continuation of India’s Nuclear Power programs.
The agreement doesnot include any control on the fissile material being produced in India.

Authorities involved in passing of the agreement

1.IAEA-Prepared the agreement in August2008.
2.Indian Parliament-Confidence vote won by the govt on the issue.
3.NSG-Passed in Sept’08
4.US Congress-The last hurdle.Exepected to pass the bill in Oct’08.

Conclusion
The agreement expected to be operational by 2009.

Amitava Banik
b.amitava1980@gmail.com