Question 1

In which year did India and the USA sign the historic Civil Nuclear Deal?

Accepted Answer

2008. The India-USA Civil Nuclear Deal was formally signed in 2008, marking a watershed moment in bilateral relations. It allowed India to access civilian nuclear technology and fuel from the USA despite not being a signatory to the NPT. The deal ended India's nuclear isolation that had persisted since the 1974 Pokhran test.

Question 2

What does LEMOA stand for in the context of India-USA defence agreements?

Accepted Answer

Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement. LEMOA stands for Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement, signed between India and the USA in August 2016. It allows both countries' militaries to use each other's land, air, and naval bases for refuelling and replenishment. LEMOA was the first of the three foundational defence agreements signed between India and the USA.

Question 3

COMCASA signed between India and USA in 2018 enables sharing of:

Accepted Answer

Encrypted communications equipment. COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) was signed in September 2018 during the inaugural 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue. It enables India to access encrypted communications equipment from the USA for interoperability between the two militaries. The agreement replaces the earlier CISMOA framework and ensures secure communications between Indian and US forces.

Question 4

BECA, signed between India and USA in October 2020, relates to:

Accepted Answer

Geospatial intelligence sharing. BECA (Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement on Geospatial Intelligence) was signed in October 2020 during the third 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue. It allows India to access high-end US geospatial data, topographical maps, and navigation charts critical for military targeting. BECA completes the set of three foundational defence agreements between India and the USA.

Question 5

India was designated as a 'Major Defence Partner' by the USA in which year?

Accepted Answer

2016. The USA designated India as a 'Major Defence Partner' in June 2016, a unique status not given to any other country. This designation facilitates technology transfer and defence cooperation at a level comparable to US allies. It paved the way for India to purchase advanced US military equipment and participate in co-production arrangements.

India-USA Relations — Set 1