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UPSC MainsGENERAL-STUDIES-PAPER-II201112 Marks150 Words
Q4.

Subsequent to the Nuclear Suppliers' Group (NSG) waiver in 2008, what are the agreements on nuclear energy that India has signed with different countries?

How to Approach

The question requires a factual account of India’s nuclear energy agreements post-2008 NSG waiver. A structured response should begin by briefly mentioning the significance of the waiver, then systematically list the agreements with different countries, including the year of signing and key features. Focus on bilateral agreements specifically related to nuclear energy cooperation, covering civilian nuclear programs, fuel supply, and technology transfer. Avoid delving into the broader geopolitical implications; maintain a focused, agreement-centric approach.

Model Answer

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Introduction

The Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) waiver in 2008 was a landmark achievement for India, allowing it to engage in nuclear commerce with other countries despite not being a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). This opened avenues for international cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Subsequent to this waiver, India has actively pursued bilateral agreements with several nations to enhance its nuclear power program, secure fuel supplies, and foster technological advancements. These agreements are crucial for meeting India’s growing energy demands and achieving its climate change commitments.

Nuclear Agreements Post-2008 NSG Waiver

Following the NSG waiver, India signed several significant agreements focused on nuclear energy cooperation. These agreements vary in scope, covering areas like reactor technology, fuel supply, research and development, and safety protocols.

1. United States of America

  • Agreement: US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008)
  • Key Features: This agreement enabled full civil nuclear cooperation, including the transfer of nuclear materials and technology. It involved stringent safeguards and verification measures to ensure the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
  • Follow-up Agreements: Subsequent agreements focused on establishing a legal framework for nuclear liability and facilitating the construction of nuclear power plants by US companies in India.

2. Russia

  • Agreement: Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy (2008, renewed and expanded in 2010, 2014, and 2019)
  • Key Features: Russia is a long-standing partner in India’s nuclear program. Agreements focus on the construction of additional nuclear power plant units (Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant) and cooperation in nuclear fuel cycle management.
  • Current Status: Russia continues to be a key supplier of nuclear technology and fuel to India.

3. France

  • Agreement: Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy (2008, renewed in 2018)
  • Key Features: This agreement facilitates cooperation in nuclear research, development, and the construction of nuclear power plants. French companies are involved in the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project in Maharashtra.
  • Jaitapur Project: The Jaitapur project, involving EPR (European Pressurized Reactor) technology, is a major component of this cooperation.

4. Canada

  • Agreement: Nuclear Cooperation Agreement (2015)
  • Key Features: This agreement allows for the transfer of Canadian nuclear technology and materials to India for peaceful purposes. It also includes provisions for cooperation in nuclear safety and security.
  • Uranium Supply: Canada is a significant supplier of uranium to India.

5. Australia

  • Agreement: Nuclear Cooperation Agreement (2015)
  • Key Features: This agreement enables the supply of Australian uranium to India and facilitates cooperation in nuclear research and development.
  • Uranium Exports: Australia had previously refrained from selling uranium to India due to its non-NPT status.

6. Japan

  • Agreement: Agreement for Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy (2016)
  • Key Features: This agreement allows for cooperation in nuclear energy, including the potential for the supply of nuclear technology and materials.
  • Strategic Significance: This agreement is strategically important, given Japan’s advanced nuclear technology.

7. United Kingdom

  • Agreement: Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement (2023)
  • Key Features: This agreement aims to strengthen collaboration in civil nuclear matters, including research and development, and the deployment of next-generation nuclear technologies like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

These agreements demonstrate India’s growing engagement with the international community in the nuclear energy sector. They are vital for ensuring a secure and sustainable energy future for India.

Conclusion

Since the 2008 NSG waiver, India has strategically forged nuclear cooperation agreements with key global players. These agreements have not only facilitated access to crucial nuclear technology and fuel supplies but also strengthened India’s position as a responsible nuclear power. Continued focus on safety, safeguards, and international collaboration will be essential for realizing the full potential of nuclear energy in India’s energy mix and contributing to global climate goals.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

NSG Waiver
An exemption granted by the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) allowing a non-NPT signatory (like India) to engage in nuclear commerce with other countries.
NPT
The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, aiming to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

Key Statistics

India aims to achieve 22,490 MW of nuclear power capacity by 2031-32.

Source: Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India (as of knowledge cutoff - 2023)

India’s installed nuclear power capacity was approximately 6.78 GW as of March 2023.

Source: Press Information Bureau, Government of India (as of knowledge cutoff - 2023)

Examples

Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant

A prime example of Indo-Russian nuclear cooperation, the Kudankulam plant utilizes Russian VVER reactors and is a significant contributor to India’s nuclear energy generation.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶Why was the NSG waiver important for India?

The NSG waiver was crucial as it removed restrictions on India’s access to nuclear fuel and technology, enabling it to expand its civilian nuclear program despite not being a signatory to the NPT.

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