Threat of Nuclear Conflict

Source-This post on Threat of Nuclear Conflict has been created based on the article “The spectre of nuclear conflict, once again” published in “The Hindu” on 26 May 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-2-International Relations- Effect of Policies and Politics of Developed and Developing Countries on India’s interests.

Context– The article underscores the threat of nuclear war and questions whether leaders have underestimated this risk, like past situations after conflicts. With certain nations issuing threats of nuclear attacks, it emphasizes the importance of interpreting the real intentions behind the rhetoric and remaining vigilant.

Why is there a rise in nuclear threats in the world?

1) Russia’s Aggressive Posturing-

A) The French President cautioned about the risk of nuclear destruction and the changing threat from Russia, especially regarding the Ukraine situation. His comments have caught Europe’s interest and sparked worries about European safety.

B) Russia has revoked its ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) in November 2023. Russia did this to level the playing field with the United States, which never agreed to the treaty. However, this decision has upset many countries because it goes against the trend of improving trust in nuclear arms control.

Read more- Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty

2) The lack of influential leaders worsens the worries. Economic instability and new weapons in nuclear countries make things worse. Furthermore, there is a lack of effective communication between nuclear nations.

3) China has also ramped up its efforts to enhance its nuclear capabilities, contributing to global tensions.

What was the recent event at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University, U.S.A?

The recent event at the Hoover Institution was an academic discussion on nuclear matters. Delegates from the U.S. and India attended the event. The discussions revolved around the U.S.-India civil nuclear deal (2005-08) and its broader impact on bilateral relations between the two countries.

What is the Background of the U.S.-India Nuclear Deal?

India had not signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), and had conducted nuclear tests in 1998, leading to sanctions on its nuclear program. India and the U.S. stood at opposite poles of the nuclear order.

What were the key takeaways of the deal?

India agreed to segregate its nuclear program into civilian and military sectors, accept permanent safeguards, adhere to certain export control regulations, and voluntarily refrain from nuclear testing.

The U.S., in turn, amended domestic laws, facilitated the passage of legislative provisions, and advocated for easing nuclear restrictions on India at international forums.

What was the significance of the U.S.-India civil nuclear deal?

1) It marked a significant shift in the relationship between the U.S. and India, especially in nuclear matters. It allowed India’s integration into the global nuclear regime by lifting several barriers that previously hindered its participation.

2) It led to enhanced economic and defense cooperation and helped in positioning India as a crucial partner on regional and global issues.

The discussions at the Hoover Institution stressed the need to overcome mental barriers in global relations. It highlighted that overcoming doubt and fostering change could lead to positive results for all nations involved.

Question for practice

What factors contribute to the increasing nuclear threats globally? How can improved communication among major nations help reduce this threat?