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

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

Answer: A

Explanation

India has ratified the Additional Protocol, a commitment given under India-U.S. nuclear deal by the previous dispensation to grant greater ease to International Atomic Energy Agency to monitor India’s civilian atomic programme. The IAEA had in March 2009 approved an additional protocol to India’s safeguards agreement consequent to a pact reached with the agency the previous year to place its civilian nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards. That agreement had paved the way for the 45-member Nuclear Suppliers Group to grant India- specific waiver for it to have commercial relations with other countries in the civilian atomic field.