Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday recalled the Pokhran nuclear tests conducted in May 1998, saying India displayed unwavering resolve and refused to bow before global pressure despite economic sanctions imposed by world powers.
Addressing the gathering during the Somnath Amrut Mahotsav celebrations in Gujarat, PM Modi referred to the nuclear tests as a defining moment in India’s rise as a global power under the leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
“On May 11, India conducted three nuclear tests in Pokhran. Our scientists showcased the country’s might and prowess before the world. This sent shockwaves across the world,” PM Modi said after participating in the Kumbhabhishek ceremony at the Somnath Temple.
The Prime Minister said that following the tests, several global powers imposed economic sanctions and restrictions on India in response to its nuclear ambitions.
“Anybody would have been shaken by this when global powers gang up against you. But, different soil shapes us,” he said.
PM Modi noted that despite heightened international scrutiny after May 11, Indian scientists successfully conducted two more nuclear tests on May 13, 1998.
“That day, the world got to know the ‘atal’ (resolute) will of India’s political leadership,” he added, praising the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee for prioritising national interests despite immense international pressure.
The Prime Minister also referred to the naming of the nuclear mission as ‘Operation Shakti’, describing it as a symbol of India’s growing confidence and strategic strength.
The Pokhran-I test conducted on May 18, 1974, followed by the Pokhran-II tests on May 11 and May 13, 1998, marked India’s entry into the league of nuclear-armed nations and significantly strengthened the country’s geopolitical and strategic standing on the global stage.
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