Why does India need nuclear weapons?

Why does India need nuclear weapons?

The Indian government must view nuclear weapons as part of a comprehensive national security strategy that includes diplomacy, arms control initiatives, and conventional forces to maximize stability and peace in the region.

Why are nuclear weapons needed?

Nuclear weapons represent the ultimate defense of the nation, a deterrent against any and all potential adversaries. Combined with diplomacy and conventional military capabilities, nuclear weapons have helped to avoid a large-scale conflict between leading world powers for over fifty years.

Does India really have nuclear weapons?

Last Updated: November, 2019. India possesses both nuclear weapons and extensive nuclear fuel cycle capabilities. India tested its first nuclear device in May 1974, and remains outside both the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).

Why India is not a nuclear weapon state?

India is a nuclear weapons possessing state outside of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). Since its independence in 1947, India has been engaged in territorial disputes with Pakistan, which have sparked conventional war between the two countries on several occasions.

What do you need to know about India’s nuclear weapons?

India’s Nuclear-Weapons Program: 5 Things You Need to Know. India sees its nuclear weapons capacity to be an integral part of its vision as a great power, and its nuclear program is important for both its prestige and security doctrine. Yet, India’s nuclear weapons program has not been free of controversy and criticism.

When did India declare itself a nuclear power?

After conducting five nuclear tests over two days in May 1998, India declared itself a state armed with nuclear weapons. India’s nuclear doctrine professes credible minimum deterrence and is built around a no-first-use posture.

Is there a nuclear power programme in India?

India has a largely indigenous nuclear power programme. The Indian government is committed to growing its nuclear power capacity as part of its massive infrastructure development programme. The government has set ambitious targets to grow nuclear capacity.

What is the nuclear doctrine of the Indian government?

In essence, as per the Indian doctrine, if India or its forces are attacked with nuclear weapons it would more or less automatically unleash a devastating nuclear attack in retaliation. No prolonged nuclear war fighting scenarios are envisaged.