On May 18, 1974, India conducted its first nuclear test at Pokhran, Rajasthan. Code-named 'Smiling Buddha,' it marked India’s arrival as a nuclear-capable nation.
India : Nuclear Age
Amid rising global tensions and China’s 1964 nuclear test, India sought to strengthen its security and technological independence. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi approved the mission with utmost secrecy.
Nuclear Test
The test site was built deep in the Thar Desert, near the village of Pokhran. Only a handful of top scientists and military officials knew about the plan.
Mission Pokhran Begins
At 8:05 am, the device detonated underground with a yield of around 8 kilotons. India declared it a 'peaceful nuclear explosion.'
'Smiling Buddha' Test
The project was kept so secret that even most Cabinet members were unaware. The mission was led by Dr Raja Ramanna and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) team.
Operation Under Wraps
The test surprised the world.Many Western nations imposed sanctions on India, while others quietly admired its scientific prowess.
Global Shockwaves
Pokhran 1974 made India the sixth country to test nuclear weapons.It laid the foundation for India’s strategic independence and its future as a global power.