Nuclear Policy: NPT, CTBT, NSG — Set 1
International Relations · परमाणु नीति: NPT, CTBT, NSG · Questions 1–10 of 158
In which year was the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) opened for signature?
Correct Answer: B. 1968
The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) was opened for signature in 1968 and entered into force in 1970. It aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote disarmament. India has never signed the NPT, viewing it as discriminatory.
Why has India refused to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)?
Correct Answer: B. India considers it discriminatory as it divides world into nuclear and non-nuclear states
India considers the NPT discriminatory because it creates two unequal categories of states — nuclear weapon states and non-nuclear weapon states. India argues that the treaty perpetuates a nuclear apartheid by allowing the P5 to retain their weapons. India believes in universal disarmament rather than selective non-proliferation.
What was the code name of India's first nuclear test conducted in 1974?
Correct Answer: B. Smiling Buddha
India's first nuclear test in May 1974 was code-named 'Smiling Buddha' and was also known as Pokhran-I. It was conducted at the Pokhran test site in Rajasthan under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. India described it as a 'peaceful nuclear explosion,' though it alarmed the international community.
What was the code name of India's nuclear tests conducted in May 1998?
Correct Answer: C. Operation Shakti
India conducted five nuclear tests in May 1998 under the code name 'Operation Shakti,' also called Pokhran-II. These tests were carried out during Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government. Following these tests, the USA and several other countries imposed economic sanctions on India.
The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) was adopted by the UN General Assembly in which year?
Correct Answer: C. 1996
The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) was adopted by the UN General Assembly on September 10, 1996. It bans all nuclear explosions for both civilian and military purposes. India has not signed the CTBT, objecting to its failure to set a timeline for nuclear disarmament.
India has not signed the CTBT primarily because:
Correct Answer: B. CTBT does not include a timeframe for nuclear disarmament
India's primary objection to the CTBT is that it does not include a clear timeframe for the complete elimination of nuclear weapons by the nuclear weapon states. India believes that disarmament must be universal and non-discriminatory. India also objects to the treaty's entry-into-force clause that requires India's ratification.
The Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) was established in response to which event?
Correct Answer: B. India's 1974 Smiling Buddha test
The Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) was established in 1974-75 following India's Smiling Buddha nuclear test. The group was formed to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons by controlling the export of materials, equipment, and technology. It currently has 48 member countries.
In which year did the NSG grant a special waiver to India allowing civil nuclear trade?
Correct Answer: C. 2008
The NSG granted India a special waiver in September 2008, enabling civil nuclear trade despite India not being a signatory to the NPT. This waiver was a key element of the India-USA Civil Nuclear Deal. It allowed India to purchase nuclear fuel and technology from NSG member countries.
Which country has been the biggest opponent of India's bid for full NSG membership?
Correct Answer: B. China
China has been the biggest opponent of India's bid for full NSG membership, arguing that non-NPT signatories should not be admitted. China insists that NSG membership should be restricted to NPT member states. Pakistan has also cited China's backing in opposing India's admission.
What is the cornerstone of India's nuclear doctrine?
Correct Answer: B. No First Use (NFU) and credible minimum deterrence
India's nuclear doctrine is based on 'No First Use' (NFU) — India will not be the first to use nuclear weapons in a conflict. It also rests on the principle of 'credible minimum deterrence,' maintaining only the minimum nuclear arsenal necessary for deterrence. India has pledged not to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapon states.