US–India Civil Nuclear Deal Hailed As Milestone In Global Non-Proliferation

The US–India civil nuclear cooperation agreement has marked a pivotal step in international nuclear diplomacy.

Then IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei described the arrangement as a timely milestone that strengthens global non-proliferation efforts, counters nuclear terrorism, and reinforces nuclear security. He identified three principal advantages of the deal, foremost among them India’s integration into the global non-proliferation mainstream.

At the time of the announcement, four Indian nuclear power reactors were already operating under IAEA safeguards.

Under the new framework, India committed to separating its civilian and military nuclear facilities and placing its entire civilian programme under international inspection.

The plan envisages that most existing and proposed civilian reactors would be voluntarily brought under safeguards. All future civilian facilities would also be placed under international oversight.

Projections indicate that nearly 90 per cent of India’s reactors could fall within the IAEA safeguards regime in the coming decades. This would ensure their exclusive use for peaceful purposes.

Gregory Schulte underscored India’s additional assurances. These include the implementation of the Additional Protocol, the establishment of a stringent national export control system, and a commitment not to transfer sensitive nuclear technologies.

India also pledged support for negotiations on a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty and reaffirmed its unilateral moratorium on nuclear testing. The statement described these measures as a significant boost to global non-proliferation objectives.

The agreement is also likely to address India’s expanding energy requirements.

With a population of over one billion and a rapidly growing economy, the country faces rising demand for electricity.

Nuclear energy, as a cleaner alternative to coal, offers potential reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.

Schulte further noted that the deal strengthens strategic ties between India, the United States, and other partners. He emphasised that a democratic and prosperous India can contribute positively to global stability.

Experts consider the safeguards agreement, framed within an established international structure, beneficial for both India and the wider international community.

Also Read: Ten Dead In Mass Shooting At Tumbler Ridge Secondary School In British Columbia