Put Pak. nuclear arsenal under IAEA watch: India, Pg1

Key Highlights:

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh raised concerns over the security of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal.
  • Called for International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) supervision over Pakistan’s nukes due to its “irresponsible conduct”.
  • Pakistan retaliated by accusing India of a nuclear black market, asking IAEA to investigate alleged illicit trafficking.

Detailed Insights: 1. India’s Position:

• Rajnath Singh, addressing troops in Srinagar, questioned whether Pakistan’s nuclear weapons are safe under a rogue regime.
  • He cited incidents of nuclear blackmail and emphasized that such weapons should be placed under IAEA oversight.
  • Reaffirmed India’s zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism, stating: “Any attack on Indian soil is now treated as an act of war.”
  • Credited PM Modi with reshaping India's counter-terror and national security doctrine.

2. Pakistan’s Reaction:

• Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry called for an international probe into India’s alleged black market in nuclear material.
  • Claimed repeated illicit radioactive material incidents in India require scrutiny by the IAEA.
  • Framed Singh’s remarks as provocative and politically motivated.

3. Strategic Context:

• Comes amid Operation Sindoor, highlighting India’s military readiness and cross-border response capabilities.
  • The nuclear spat adds a new layer to the ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two neighbours.
  • India maintains a policy of credible minimum deterrence and No First Use, while Pakistan's stance is perceived as more aggressive and tactical-nuke oriented.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency): A UN body responsible for ensuring peaceful use of nuclear energy and preventing nuclear weapon proliferation.
  • Nuclear Black Market: Refers to unregulated or illegal trade in radioactive materials, posing serious international security risks.

Significance:

• India’s call reflects global concerns around nuclear security in politically unstable states.
  • Highlights the role of international bodies like the IAEA in maintaining nuclear accountability.
  • Exposes the fragile nuclear trust deficit in South Asia, where conventional conflict often risks escalation.

Mains Mock Question:

Discuss the role of international agencies in regulating nuclear arsenals. How can India balance its security interests with global non-proliferation norms in the context of nuclear threats from its neighbours?