UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2018

In the Indian context, what is the implication of ratifying the 'Additional Protocol' with the 'International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)'?

  1. The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards.
  2. The military nuclear installations come under the inspection of IAEA.
  3. The country will have the privilege to buy uranium from the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
  4. The country automatically becomes a member of the NSG.

Answer

Correct Answer

The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards.

Explanation

India's Additional Protocol (in force since 2019) applies to civilian nuclear facilities placed under IAEA safeguards under the India-US civil nuclear arrangement. It does not open military facilities to inspection nor automatically confer NSG membership.

Topics: additional protocol with iaea, iaea and india nuclear deal, international relations, nuclear diplomacy