Write an essay on - Nuclear tests - are they necessary?
Answers
Answer:
Was India’s Nuclear Testing Necessary ?
India conducted three nuclear tests on May 11th, 1998 and two more on May 13th after a gap of 24 years. It is superior technologically in comparison to 1974 tests. It comprised of both Fission and Fusion tests. It also showed the capability to produce Hydrogen Bomb. Its operation took place under such a secrecy that even American satellites could not detect it. It took the World to surprise especially America.
But was the nuclear testing really necessary? Vajpayee government gave the reason that security environment in the region had deteriorated over the years. The security threats from Pakistan and China were increasing. Pakistan attacked India twice and was involved in Proxy wars over Jammu and Kashmir. China had been helping Pakistan in acquiring missile and nuclear technology. China having gone nuclear had installed its missiles facing Indian cities. The recent production of Ghauri missile from Pakistan has been possible due to Chinese help. So a nexus had been established between China and Pakistan to trouble India. In India’s security threat perception China had always been a potential threat due to its unreliable nature. It attacked India in 1962. Our border problem is still unresolved. Large piece of Indian land is still with China. It shows Arunachal Pradesh in its political map. Looking at the threats it was not necessary at this time to go for nuclear testing. There is nothing new in the threats. It has been existing over the years. The relations with China were improving. The terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir was declining. Pakistan and India had not fought for the last 27 years. The efforts were on towards confidence building measures. Many rounds of talks had taken place between two countries. The timing of testing is unjustified. The entire efforts towards normalization of relations has taken a backstay. In response to India’s nuclear testing Pakistan also conducted six tests which was to come to equal terms with India.
The impact of nuclear testing can be devastating for both the countries. Both are poor nations in South Asia and rank at the bottom of Human Development Index. It can lead to arms race in South Asia. As a result defence budget will be enhanced instead that money could have been utilized for social development. Due to nuclear testing USA imposed sanctions on both India and Pakistan and faced condemnation from the World Community. Japan, Germany, Australia, Sweden also imposed sanctions by which all bilateral aid will be stopped. According to one estimate India is going to suffer a loss of approximate 21 billion dollar. Pakistan will also be hit worse because its economy is mainly dependent on the foreign aid. But India differs on the impact of sanctions. India, says that USA will also be affected because of its market interests. But why to impose an unnecessary burden at this time. It could have been avoided. The compulsion of Pakistan is that it has to counter India. Its policies are reactionary. Another impact is that Chinese-Pakistan nexus which has become more clear now can be dangerous for India’s security.