In the Indian context, what is the implication of ratifying the ‘Additional Protocol’ with the ‘International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)’?
- A.The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards.
- B.The military nuclear installations come under the inspection of IAEA.
- C.The country will have the privilege to buy uranium from the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
- D.The country automatically becomes a member of the NSG.
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: A. The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards.
India's Additional Protocol with the IAEA is a voluntary agreement that expands the scope of the Agency's safeguards system. It allows for enhanced verification measures and broader access to information and locations related to India's nuclear program. Critically, these enhanced safeguards are applied to declared civilian nuclear facilities, reinforcing transparency and non-proliferation commitments in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Military nuclear installations are typically excluded from such international inspections.
Source: UPSC gs1 2018