Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)

News: The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) marks 55 years since it came into force on March 5, 1970. Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)

About Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)

• It is an international agreement aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons, promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and achieving global nuclear disarmament.
• The NPT was opened for signature in 1968 and entered into force on 5 March 1970.
• Membership: 191 members including the five recognized nuclear-weapon states: U.S.A, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom.
• India has not become a signatory to the NPT.
• The treaty is built on three main pillars:
  • Non-Proliferation – Preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and related technology.
  • Disarmament – Working towards the elimination of nuclear weapons globally.
  • Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy – Ensuring cooperation in the development of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes under strict safeguards.

Key Provisions

• Nuclear-weapon states (NWS) commit not to transfer nuclear weapons or technology to any non-nuclear-weapon state (NNWS).
• Non-Nuclear-Weapon States (NNWS) agree not to acquire or develop nuclear weapons.
• International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards are applied to verify compliance through inspections and monitoring.
• The treaty encourages international cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy while preventing the diversion of nuclear materials for military purposes.