The Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) is an assembly of nuclear-supplier nations dedicated to preventing nuclear proliferation. Its mission focuses on regulating the export of materials, equipment, and technology that could potentially be used to create nuclear weapons. Established in 1974, the NSG was a direct response to India's initial nuclear test.
The NSG operates based on a consensus model, meaning all 48 member states must unanimously agree on any decision made. This approach emphasizes collaboration among nations, although it can also lead to challenges in decision-making.
India maintains a robust non-proliferation record, even though it is not a signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). The country argues that its inclusion in the NSG would enhance global non-proliferation efforts. A significant factor behind India's bid for NSG membership is its pressing need for nuclear energy to support its expanding economy.
In 2008, India received a waiver from the NSG that permitted it to engage in nuclear trade, marking an important milestone. However, India continues to strive for full membership in the group.
China's primary objection to India's NSG membership stems from the fact that India is not an NPT signatory. Furthermore, China advocates for a "criteria-based" approach, insisting that the NSG establishes specific criteria for non-NPT states before admitting any new members. Complicating matters is China's relationship with Pakistan, which is also seeking NSG membership. Consequently, China's stance serves as a significant barrier to India's aspirations due to the necessity of consensus among all member countries.
Q1. What is the purpose of the Nuclear Suppliers Group?
Answer: The NSG aims to prevent nuclear proliferation by regulating the export of nuclear-related materials and technologies that could be used to create nuclear weapons.
Q2. Why is India's NSG membership significant?
Answer: India's membership is crucial for enhancing global non-proliferation efforts and securing access to nuclear technology to meet its growing energy needs.
Q3. What challenges does India face in joining the NSG?
Answer: India's primary challenge is China's objection, based on India's non-signatory status to the NPT, which complicates its bid for membership.
Q4. How does the NSG make decisions?
Answer: The NSG operates on a consensus basis, meaning all member countries must agree before any decision is finalized.
Q5. What was the significance of India's 2008 waiver?
Answer: The 2008 waiver allowed India to participate in nuclear trade, representing a significant step towards greater integration into the global nuclear market.
Question 1: What year was the Nuclear Suppliers Group established?
A) 1970
B) 1974
C) 1980
D) 1985
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which country has primarily blocked India's NSG membership?
A) United States
B) Russia
C) China
D) France
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What is the main criterion for NSG membership?
A) Economic strength
B) NPT signatory status
C) Military power
D) Technological advancement
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: How many member countries are in the NSG?
A) 40
B) 45
C) 48
D) 50
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What does the NSG aim to control?
A) Nuclear trade
B) Nuclear weapons
C) Nuclear proliferation
D) All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Question 6: In what year did India receive a waiver from the NSG?
A) 2000
B) 2005
C) 2008
D) 2010
Correct Answer: C
Question 7: What principle does the NSG operate on?
A) Majority rule
B) Consensus
C) Individual voting
D) Random selection
Correct Answer: B
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