Question : ATOMIC POWER POLICY



(a) whether the Government have formulated any Atomic policy after Pokhran nuclear test;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) if not, the reasons therefor?

Answer given by the minister



THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PLANNING, STATISTICS & PROGRAMME IMPLEMENTATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS & PUBLIC GRIEVANCES

(SHRI ARUN SHOURIE)

(a) & (b) Government`s nuclear policy has been clearly enunciated following the May 1998 tests. Detailed statements have been made in Parliament from 27 May 1998 onwards by the Prime Minister in this connection. Our nuclear policy has been marked by restraint and openness. India has not violated any international agreements either in 1974 when we first demonstrated our capability or in 1998. The series of tests undertaken by India in May 1998. was intended to respond to our deteriorating security environment and conducted in the supreme national interest. Subsequent to the tests, which have provided an adequate scientific data base for designing the types devices needed by us for a credible minimum nuclear deterrent Government has declared a voluntary moratorium on further nuclear test explosions. The priority of our meeting the country`s national security concerns having been addressed, the Government desires to develop a national consensus on our position vis-a-vis on the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).