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India’s Nuclear Doctrine: Key Principles and Policies
India’s nuclear doctrine is a set of principles and policies that guide its possession and potential use of nuclear weapons. It is not formally codified but has been articulated through official statements, speeches, and writings by government officials.
Key features:
No First Use (NFU):
- India adheres to a policy of “No First Use,” meaning it will not be the first to initiate a nuclear attack against any country.
- This commitment was formally adopted in 2003, making India the only nuclear-armed state with such a declared policy.
Credible Minimum Deterrence:
- India maintains a “credible minimum deterrent” force, aiming to inflict unacceptable damage on an adversary in case of a nuclear attack. This includes possessing a sufficient number of deliverable nuclear weapons and ensuring their reliability and survivability.
Civilian Control:
- The decision to use nuclear weapons rests with the civilian government, specifically the Nuclear Command Authority (NCA) headed by the Prime Minister.
Retaliation to Major Attack:
- India reserves the option to retaliate with nuclear weapons in the event of a major attack on its territory or forces by any country, including those using biological or chemical weapons.
Non-use against Non-Nuclear Weapon States:
- India has pledged not to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapon states unless attacked by such states with the assistance of a nuclear-armed country.
Commitment to Disarmament:
- India is committed to the ultimate goal of a nuclear-weapon-free world and supports global disarmament efforts. It advocates for a step-by-step approach towards disarmament, including universal adherence to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Criticisms and Challenges:
- Critics argue that India’s NFU policy lacks credibility as it is conditional and leaves room for ambiguity.
- Maintaining a credible minimum deterrent is expensive and raises concerns about an arms race in the region.
- Integrating biological and chemical weapons into the nuclear doctrine further complicates its interpretation and undermines international norms.
Significance:
- Despite its limitations, India’s nuclear doctrine is seen as a crucial factor in maintaining regional stability and deterrence. It provides a framework for responsible nuclear weapons possession and promotes restraint in the face of potential security threats.
Recent Developments:
- In recent years, India has taken steps to modernize its nuclear arsenal and delivery systems. However, it has also reiterated its commitment to NFU and disarmament goals.
- The evolving security landscape in Asia necessitates constant evaluation and potential adjustments to India’s nuclear doctrine to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.
- Understanding India’s nuclear doctrine is essential for comprehending its strategic posture and foreign policy objectives in a world with multiple nuclear powers.