India’s Nuclear Policy| Class 12 Political Science

Class 12 Political Science Chapter 4 India’s Nuclear Policy: India’s nuclear policy is a complex and evolving one, with a long history dating back to the early days of the country’s independence. The policy has been influenced by several factors, including India’s security concerns, its commitment to non-proliferation, and its desire to play a leading role in the world. The basic principles of India’s nuclear policy were laid down by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in the early 1950s.

In this article, we will look into the topic of ‘India’s Nuclear Policy’ in detail. It is an important topic in Class 12 Political Science. Students can go through this article to get comprehensive notes on the topic Class 12 Political Science Chapter 4 India’s Nuclear Policy.

India’s Nuclear Policy

India’s nuclear policy is based on the principle of “no first use” of nuclear weapons and “retaliation only”. This means that India will only use nuclear weapons in response to a nuclear attack on its territory or its forces anywhere. India’s nuclear policy is also based on the principle of “credible minimum deterrence”, which means that India will maintain a nuclear arsenal that is sufficient to deter any potential adversary from launching a nuclear attack.

India’s nuclear policy has evolved. In the early years after independence, India was committed to nuclear disarmament. However, after the 1962 Sino-Indian War, India began to reconsider its nuclear policy. In 1974, India conducted a peaceful nuclear explosion (PNE), which was seen as a signal that India was developing nuclear weapons. In 1998, India formally adopted its nuclear doctrine, which outlined the principles of “no first use” and “retaliation only”.

India’s nuclear policy has been a source of controversy, both domestically and internationally. Some critics argue that India’s nuclear doctrine is not credible, as India has not ruled out the use of nuclear weapons in response to a conventional attack. Others argue that India’s nuclear policy is destabilizing, as it could lead to an arms race in South Asia.

Despite the controversy, India’s nuclear policy has remained largely unchanged since 1998. India continues to maintain a “no first use” posture and to reiterate its commitment to nuclear disarmament. India’s nuclear policy is an important factor in determining nuclear stability in South Asia.

India’s Nuclear Explosion and Domestic Politics

India’s first nuclear explosion in May 1974 was a significant development in the country’s industrialization plans, initiated in the late 1940s under the guidance of Homi J. Bhabha. India aimed to generate atomic energy for peaceful purposes, but Nehru opposed nuclear weapons and pleaded for comprehensive nuclear disarmament. The nuclear arsenal continued to grow, and when Communist China conducted nuclear tests in 1964, the five nuclear weapon powers tried to impose the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT) on the rest of the world.

India considered the NPT discriminatory and refused to sign it. The period following the nuclear test was a challenging one in domestic politics, as the Arab-Israel War of 1973 led to the Oil Shock, economic turmoil, and high inflation. Indian politics generally agreed on national integration, international boundary protection, and national interest. During the decade of 1962-1971, foreign policy played a limited role in party politics.

Shifting Alliances in World Politics

In 1977, several non-Congress governments came to power, leading to significant changes in world politics. The Janata Party government announced non-alignment, aiming to correct the pro-Soviet tilt in foreign policy. Since then, all governments have focused on restoring relations with China and the US. India’s foreign policy is closely linked to its stance towards Pakistan and Indo-US relations. Post-1990, India’s foreign policy has shifted to a more pro-US strategy, influenced by economic interests rather than military ones. Indo-Pakistan relations have seen new developments, with efforts to restore normal relations and encourage cultural exchanges. However, a near-war situation emerged in 1999, requiring ongoing negotiations for durable peace.

Conclusion – Class 12 Political Science Chapter 4 India’s Nuclear Policy

In conclusion, India’s nuclear policy has been successful in deterring nuclear attack against India. It has also helped India to maintain its strategic autonomy and to play a leading role in international affairs. However, India’s nuclear policy has also been criticized. Some critics argue that India’s no first use policy is unrealistic and that India should be prepared to use nuclear weapons first in order to deter a nuclear attack. Others argue that India’s nuclear policy is too expensive and that India should focus on developing its conventional forces instead.

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India’s Nuclear Policy- FAQs

What is the focus of Chapter 4 of Class 12 Political Science?

The chapter focuses on India’s nuclear policy, including its development, principles, and implications.

When did India conduct its first nuclear test?

India conducted its first nuclear test, codenamed “Smiling Buddha,” in 1974.

What are the principles of India’s nuclear policy?

Principles include a commitment to no-first-use, credible minimum deterrence, and global nuclear disarmament.

How does India view nuclear weapons in its security calculus?

India views nuclear weapons as a means of deterrence against potential threats to its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

What role does India’s nuclear policy play in regional and global security?

India’s nuclear policy contributes to regional stability and acts as a deterrent against nuclear aggression, while promoting global disarmament efforts.

How does India engage with international nuclear regimes and treaties?

India engages with international nuclear regimes like the NPT and CTBT while advocating for its inclusion as a responsible nuclear power.

What are the implications of India’s nuclear policy for its foreign relations?

India’s nuclear policy influences its relations with nuclear-armed states, regional neighbors, and major powers, shaping strategic dynamics and diplomacy.