This is a pure Current Affairs question derived from the 'List of MoUs/Agreements' released after a major bilateral summit. It rewards aspirants who don't just read headlines ('India-Russia summit held') but scan the official MEA/PIB list of signed documents for unique titles.
How this question is built
This question can be broken into the following sub-statements.
Tap a statement sentence to jump into its detailed analysis.
Statement 1
Did India sign the "Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field" with Japan
Origin: Web / Current Affairs
Fairness: CA heavy
Web-answerable
"The Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field identified jointly by Russia and India was signed by Director General of the State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom Alexey Likhachev and the Secretary of Department of Atomic Energy and Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission Kamlesh Vyas."
Why this source?
- Explicitly states the Action Plan was identified jointly by Russia and India.
- Names the signatories as Russia's Rosatom DG and India's DAE Secretary, showing the agreement was between Russia and India (not Japan).
"Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field | Mr. Alexi Likhachev, DG, Rosatom | Shri K N Vyas Secretary, DAE"
Why this source?
- Lists the Action Plan along with the Russian and Indian officials associated with it (Mr. Alexi Likhachev, DG, Rosatom and Shri K N Vyas, Secretary, DAE).
- Placement in an India–Russia press release context indicates the Action Plan was part of India–Russia cooperation, not India–Japan.
Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 39: After Nehru... > Foreign Relations > p. 761
Strength: 5/5
“The Manmohan Singh government made efforts for stronger ties with the United States. The prime minister visited the US in July 2005 to initiate negotiations over the Indo-US civilian nuclear agreement. When, in 2006, President George W. Bush visited India, the declaration over the nuclear agreement was made. This gave India access to American nuclear fuel and technology, though in return India would have to allow its civil nuclear reactors to be inspected by the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency). It was only in October 2008 that India and the US finally signed the agreement after further negotiations and approval from the IAEA, the Nuclear Suppliers Group, and the US Congress.”
Why relevant
Shows India has negotiated and signed bilateral civilian nuclear agreements (example: the Indo–US civilian nuclear agreement).
How to extend
A student could use this pattern to look for a similarly framed bilateral nuclear cooperation document between India and Japan in news/official releases.
Contemporary World Politics, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Security in the Contemporary World > India's Security Strategy > p. 77
Strength: 4/5
“the South Asian region, India's decision to conduct nuclear tests in 1998 was justified by the Indian government in terms of safeguarding national security. India first tested a nuclear device in 1974. The second component of India's security strategy has been to strengthen international norms and international institutions to protect its security interests. India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, supported the cause of Asian solidarity, decolonisation, disarmament, and the UN as a forum in which international conflicts could be settled. India also took initiatives to bring about a universal and non-discriminatory nonproliferation regime in which all countries would have the same rights and obligations with respect to weapons of mass destruction (nuclear, biological, chemical).”
Why relevant
Describes India’s emphasis on strengthening international norms and institutions and pursuing non‑discriminatory civil nuclear arrangements.
How to extend
Using this rule, one might expect India to pursue civil nuclear cooperation with like‑minded partners (such as Japan) and then check diplomatic records for an 'Action Plan' title.
Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 16: India–Political Aspects > INDIA'S ROLE IN WORLD AFFAIRS > p. 60
Strength: 3/5
“China. Sri Lanka, Japan and India jointly signed an agreement on May 28, 2019, to develop the East Container Terminal at the Colombo Port. An agreement has been signed between India and Maldives on May 30, 2019 to develop socio-economic infrastructure in the neighbouring countries in the field of health and sanitation. Konkan Railways with Nepal signed an agreement on May 10, 2019 to supply two 1600 HP DEMU trains sets. The Ministry of External Affairs with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development Consultancy Service (NABCONS) on April 2, 2019 shall establish India-Africa Institute of Agriculture and Rural Development in Malawi.”
Why relevant
Gives a concrete example that India and Japan (along with other countries) sign bilateral/multilateral agreements on infrastructure and cooperation.
How to extend
A student can infer India–Japan bilateral agreements are routine and search India–Japan bilateral archives for a nuclear cooperation action plan.
Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 9: Distribution of World Natural Resources > Table 9.13 Nuclear Power Plants in India > p. 26
Strength: 3/5
“Development of nuclear energy is imperative for the economic development of the country. But the disasters like Fukushima (Japan-2011) and Chernobyl ( U.S.S.R.1986) have proved that it is full of risk. Tus it is a partial solution of the Indian energy crisis. Unfortunately, in India, in case of nuclear accident, the maximum fne that can be imposed by the regulator on an ofending nuclear plant is Rs. 500/. Tis amount is too low to serve as a deterent against such infringements.”
Why relevant
Mentions the Fukushima nuclear disaster (Japan) and highlights Japan’s centrality in nuclear safety discourse.
How to extend
Given Japan’s nuclear experience, a student could reasonably check whether Japan engaged in post‑Fukushima nuclear cooperation with partners including India, looking for an 'Action Plan' between the two.
Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > Fast Forward India's Nuclear Programme > p. 69
Strength: 2/5
“India has opposed the international treaties aimed at non-proliferation since they were selectively applicable to the non-nuclear powers and legitimised the monopoly of the five nuclear weapons powers. Thus, India opposed the indefinite extension of the NPT in 1995 and also refused to sign the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). India conducted a series of nuclear tests in May 1998, demonstrating its capacity to use nuclear energy for military purposes. Pakistan soon followed, thereby increasing the vulnerability of the region to a nuclear exchange. The international community was extremely critical of the nuclear tests in the subcontinent and sanctions were imposed on both India and Pakistan, which were subsequently waived.”
Why relevant
Notes India’s historical resistance to some non‑proliferation treaties but also its development of nuclear capabilities and later diplomatic engagement after tests.
How to extend
A student could combine India’s selective treaty stance with its later bilateral deals to consider whether India would sign a targeted cooperation 'Action Plan' with Japan and then verify with primary sources.
Statement 2
Did India sign the "Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field" with Russia
Origin: Web / Current Affairs
Fairness: CA heavy
Web-answerable
"The Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field identified jointly by Russia and India was signed by Director General of the State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom Alexey Likhachev and the Secretary of Department of Atomic Energy and Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission Kamlesh Vyas."
Why this source?
- Explicitly states the Action Plan was identified jointly by Russia and India.
- Names the Russian and Indian signatories (Alexey Likhachev for Rosatom; Kamlesh Vyas for India's DAE), confirming bilateral signing.
"Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field | Mr. Alexi Likhachev, DG, Rosatom | Shri K N Vyas Secretary, DAE"
Why this source?
- Lists the Action Plan alongside the named Russian and Indian representatives involved.
- Shows Mr. Alexi Likhachev (Rosatom) and Shri K N Vyas (Secretary, DAE) associated with the Action Plan, indicating formal agreement between the two sides.
"The sides expressed satisfaction over signing of the Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field ...Read more"
Why this source?
- States that the sides expressed satisfaction over signing of the Action Plan, indicating it was signed.
- Supports that a signing event took place between the concerned parties.
Contemporary World Politics, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 1: The End of Bipolarity > Ideas for the Teacher > p. 13
Strength: 4/5
“The End of Bipolarity 13 access to Central Asia, and balancing its relations with China. Russia stands to benefit from this relationship because India is the second largest arms market for Russia. The Indian military gets most of its hardware from Russia. Since India is an oil-importing nation, Russia is important to India and has repeatedly come to the assistance of India during its oil crises. India is seeking to increase its energy imports from Russia and the republics of Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. Cooperation with these republics includes partnership and investment in oilfields. Russia is important for India's nuclear energy plans and assisted India's space industry by giving, for example, the cryogenic rocket when India needed it.”
Why relevant
States that 'Russia is important for India's nuclear energy plans' and that Russia assisted India in high-technology areas (example: cryogenic rocket).
How to extend
A student could infer that strategic partners who assist in nuclear/space tech often formalize cooperation via agreements and then check official Indo‑Russian agreements for a named action plan.
Contemporary World Politics, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 1: The End of Bipolarity > FLASHBACK: INDIA AND THE USSR > p. 12
Strength: 5/5
“A large number of Indian writers and artists visited the USSR. order is the co-existence of several powers in the international system, collective security (in which an attack on any country is regarded as a threat to all countries and requires a collective response), greater regionalism, negotiated settlements of international conflicts, an independent foreign policy for all countries, and decision making through bodies like the UN that should be strengthened, democratised, and empowered. More than 80 bilateral agreements have been signed between India and Russia as part of the Indo-Russian Strategic Agreement of 2001. India stands to benefit from its relationship with Russia on issues like Kashmir, energy supplies, sharing information on international terrorism,”
Why relevant
Notes that 'More than 80 bilateral agreements have been signed between India and Russia as part of the Indo‑Russian Strategic Agreement of 2001,' implying multiple sectoral cooperation pacts between the two states.
How to extend
Given many bilateral accords under a strategic framework, a student could reasonably look for a nuclear-sector action plan among those agreements or in follow‑up documents from the 2001 strategic partnership.
Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 39: After Nehru... > Foreign Relations > p. 761
Strength: 4/5
“The Manmohan Singh government made efforts for stronger ties with the United States. The prime minister visited the US in July 2005 to initiate negotiations over the Indo-US civilian nuclear agreement. When, in 2006, President George W. Bush visited India, the declaration over the nuclear agreement was made. This gave India access to American nuclear fuel and technology, though in return India would have to allow its civil nuclear reactors to be inspected by the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency). It was only in October 2008 that India and the US finally signed the agreement after further negotiations and approval from the IAEA, the Nuclear Suppliers Group, and the US Congress.”
Why relevant
Describes that India signs formal nuclear cooperation agreements with other major powers (example: the Indo‑US civilian nuclear agreement), showing India uses formal, named instruments to govern nuclear cooperation.
How to extend
By analogy, a student might expect India to use a similarly titled formal instrument with Russia and therefore search Russian/Indian government releases or treaty lists for that specific action plan.
Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 39: After Nehru... > Foreign Policy and Relations with other Countries > p. 701
Strength: 3/5
“The Treaty of Friendship with the USSR was a move to counter the Chinese closeness with Pakistan. When the US introduced a resolution in the UN Security Council calling for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of armed forces by India and Pakistan after Pakistan began the attack on the western front, the Soviet Union vetoed the resolution. Though the Soviet Union was not happy with India's nuclear test of 1974, it did not support further action against India. Certainly, there was a tilt towards the Soviet Union for pragmatic reasons during the times of Indira Gandhi. United States From the time Indira Gandhi came to power, the relations with the US were strained.”
Why relevant
Recalls historical Treaty of Friendship with the USSR and pragmatic tilt toward the Soviet/Russian relationship on security and nuclear-related matters, indicating a longstanding institutional basis for nuclear cooperation.
How to extend
A student could use this background to prioritize checking bilateral institutional records (treaties/strategic agreements) between India and Russia for specialized nuclear cooperation plans.
Statement 3
Did India sign the "Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field" with the United Kingdom
Origin: Web / Current Affairs
Fairness: CA heavy
Web-answerable
"The Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field identified jointly by Russia and India was signed by Director General of the State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom Alexey Likhachev and the Secretary of Department of Atomic Energy and Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission Kamlesh Vyas."
Why this source?
- Explicitly names the Action Plan as a document "identified jointly by Russia and India".
- States the Action Plan "was signed by Director General ... Rosatom Alexey Likhachev and the Secretary of Department of Atomic Energy ... Kamlesh Vyas", showing the counterpart was Russia (Rosatom).
- Directly contradicts the claim that the signing was with the United Kingdom by identifying Russia as the partner.
"Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field | **Mr. Alexi Likhachev**, DG, Rosatom | **Shri K N Vyas** Secretary, DAE"
Why this source?
- Lists the Action Plan alongside signatories: "Mr. Alexi Likhachev, DG, Rosatom" and "Shri K N Vyas Secretary, DAE", indicating Russia–India signing.
- Identifies Rosatom (Russia) as the foreign signatory rather than any UK entity, refuting a UK bilateral signing.
"The sides expressed satisfaction over signing of the Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field ...Read more"
Why this source?
- Confirms that "The sides expressed satisfaction over signing of the Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field", indicating the Action Plan was signed.
- The passage context (from same set of press releases) supports that the signing referenced concerns India and its partner in those releases (Russia), not the United Kingdom.
Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 39: After Nehru... > Foreign Relations > p. 761
Strength: 5/5
“The Manmohan Singh government made efforts for stronger ties with the United States. The prime minister visited the US in July 2005 to initiate negotiations over the Indo-US civilian nuclear agreement. When, in 2006, President George W. Bush visited India, the declaration over the nuclear agreement was made. This gave India access to American nuclear fuel and technology, though in return India would have to allow its civil nuclear reactors to be inspected by the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency). It was only in October 2008 that India and the US finally signed the agreement after further negotiations and approval from the IAEA, the Nuclear Suppliers Group, and the US Congress.”
Why relevant
Shows India has negotiated and signed a major bilateral civilian nuclear agreement (Indo‑US civilian nuclear agreement) after negotiations and international approvals.
How to extend
A student could use this pattern (India signs bilateral nuclear cooperation deals) and check whether a similar formal agreement or 'action plan' was concluded with the UK and when.
Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > Fast Forward India's Nuclear Programme > p. 69
Strength: 4/5
“India has opposed the international treaties aimed at non-proliferation since they were selectively applicable to the non-nuclear powers and legitimised the monopoly of the five nuclear weapons powers. Thus, India opposed the indefinite extension of the NPT in 1995 and also refused to sign the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). India conducted a series of nuclear tests in May 1998, demonstrating its capacity to use nuclear energy for military purposes. Pakistan soon followed, thereby increasing the vulnerability of the region to a nuclear exchange. The international community was extremely critical of the nuclear tests in the subcontinent and sanctions were imposed on both India and Pakistan, which were subsequently waived.”
Why relevant
Explains India's cautious/independent posture on multilateral non‑proliferation treaties, implying India pursues bilateral arrangements to secure nuclear cooperation while defending its strategic choices.
How to extend
Use this rule to infer India might prefer negotiated bilateral frameworks (with like‑minded partners such as the UK) rather than treaty accession; then verify whether a UK‑India action plan fits that pattern.
Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 88: Foreign Policy > II I Disarmament > p. 610
Strength: 3/5
“The foreign policy of India is opposed to arms race and advocates disarmament, both conventional and nuclear. This is aimed at promoting world peace and security by reducing or ending tensions between power blocs and to accelerate economic development of the country by preventing the unproductive expenditure on the manufacture of arms. India has been using the UNO platform to check the arms race and to achieve disarmament. India took the initiative of holding a six-nation summit. At New Delhi in 1985 and made concrete proposals for nuclear disarmament. By Ilot signing the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT) of 1968 and the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) of 1996, India has kept its nuclear options open.”
Why relevant
Describes India's long‑standing policy of keeping nuclear options open while engaging internationally on disarmament—consistent with selective bilateral cooperation.
How to extend
Combine this policy pattern with knowledge of India‑UK relations to assess the plausibility of a targeted cooperation 'action plan' with the UK and then seek the specific document/date.
Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 39: After Nehru... > Foreign Relations > p. 732
Strength: 3/5
“Rajiv Gandhi set out to improve relations with the US and expanded scientific and economic ties with that country. His policies of economic liberalisation and emphasis on information technology brought him closer to the US and other western nations. Rajiv Gandhi is said to have used a direct private channel to Ronald Reagan, the US president, which led to the cancellation of proposed supplies of AWACS aircraft to Pakistan. Despite moving closer to the West, Rajiv Gandhi did not succumb to pressure on the nuclear non-proliferation issue which he linked, as Indian policy had always done, to universal disarmament. In June 1988, at the fifteenth special session of the United Nations General Assembly, Rajiv spoke about a world free of nuclear weapons, and put forward his 'Action Plan for Ushering in a Nuclear-Weapon Free and Non-Violent World Order'.”
Why relevant
Notes Indian leaders' efforts to expand scientific and economic ties with Western countries (US example), showing precedent for nuclear/scientific engagement with Western partners.
How to extend
A student could analogously look for records of scientific/nuclear cooperation initiatives between India and the UK in the same diplomatic/technical vein.
Contemporary World Politics, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 3: Contemporary South Asia > TIMELINE OF SOUTH ASIA SINCE 1947 > p. 32
Strength: 2/5
“1947: India and Pakistan emerge as independent nations after the end of British rule 1948: Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) gains independence; Indo-Pak conflict over Kashmir 1954-55: Pakistan joins the Cold War military blocs, SEATO and CENTO 1960: India and Pakistan sign the Indus Waters Treaty 1962: Border conflict between India and China 1965: Indo-Pak War; UN India-Pakistan Observation Mission 1966: India and Pakistan sign the Tashkent Agreement; Six-point proposal of Sheikh Mujib-ur Rahman for greater autonomy to East Pakistan 1971 March: Proclamation of Independence by leaders of Bangladesh August : Indo-Soviet Treaty of Friendship signed for 20 years December : Indo-Pak War, Liberation of Bangladesh 1972 July: India and Pakistan sign the Simla Agreement 1974 May: India conducts nuclear test 1976: Pakistan and Bangladesh establish diplomatic ties 1985 December: South Asian leaders sign the SAARC Charter at the first summit in Dhaka 1987: Indo-Sri Lanka Accord; Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) operation in Sri Lanka (1987-90) 1988: India sends troops to the Maldives to foil a coup attempt by mercenaries India and Pakistan sign the agreement not to attack nuclear installations and facilities of each other 1988-91: Democracy restoration in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal 1996 December: India and Bangladesh sign the Farakka Treaty for sharing of the Ganga Waters 1998 May: India and Pakistan conduct nuclear tests December: India and Sri Lanka sign the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) 1999 February: Indian PM Vajpayee undertakes bus journey to Lahore to sign a Peace Declaration June-July: Kargil conflict between India and Pakistan 2001 July: Vajpayee - Musharraf Agra Summit unsuccessful 2004 January: SAFTA signed at the 12th SAARC Summit in Islamabad 2007: Afghanistan joins SAARC 2014 November: The 18th SAARC Summit in Kathmandu, Nepal In that sense the South Asian experience of democracy has expanded the global imagination of democracy.”
Why relevant
Provides a timeline of key nuclear milestones (tests, treaties) for India, useful for situating when bilateral nuclear cooperation agreements might plausibly occur.
How to extend
Use the timeline to narrow likely periods for a UK‑India 'action plan' (e.g., post‑1998 liberalisation of cooperation) and then check UK or Indian archives for agreements in that timeframe.
Statement 4
Did India sign the "Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field" with the United States of America
Origin: Web / Current Affairs
Fairness: CA heavy
Web-answerable
"The Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field identified jointly by Russia and India was signed by Director General of the State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom Alexey Likhachev and the Secretary of Department of Atomic Energy and Chairman of Atomic Energy Commission Kamlesh Vyas."
Why this source?
- Explicitly states the Action Plan was identified jointly by Russia and India.
- Names the Russian and Indian signatories (Rosatom DG Alexey Likhachev and DAE Secretary Kamlesh Vyas), indicating the agreement was with Russia, not the United States.
"Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field | **Mr. Alexi Likhachev**, DG, Rosatom | **Shri K N Vyas** Secretary, DAE"
Why this source?
- Lists the Action Plan and shows the signatories as Mr. Alexi Likhachev (DG, Rosatom) and Shri K N Vyas (Secretary, DAE).
- Placement in a PIB press release context ties the Action Plan to Russia–India cooperation rather than to the United States.
Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 39: After Nehru... > Foreign Relations > p. 761
Strength: 5/5
“The Manmohan Singh government made efforts for stronger ties with the United States. The prime minister visited the US in July 2005 to initiate negotiations over the Indo-US civilian nuclear agreement. When, in 2006, President George W. Bush visited India, the declaration over the nuclear agreement was made. This gave India access to American nuclear fuel and technology, though in return India would have to allow its civil nuclear reactors to be inspected by the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency). It was only in October 2008 that India and the US finally signed the agreement after further negotiations and approval from the IAEA, the Nuclear Suppliers Group, and the US Congress.”
Why relevant
Describes negotiations between India and the US over a civilian nuclear agreement (2005–2008) and a final agreement signed in October 2008 granting access to US nuclear fuel and technology.
How to extend
A student could infer that detailed implementing documents or action plans often accompany such major agreements and check 2005–2009 bilateral records for an 'Action Plan' related to implementation.
Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > India's nuclear policy > p. 68
Strength: 4/5
“India always considered the NPT as discriminatory and had refused to sign it. When India conducted its first nuclear test, it was termed as peaceful explosion. India argued that it was committed to the policy of using nuclear power only for peaceful purposes. The period when the nuclear test was conducted was a difficult period in domestic politics. Following the Arab-Israel War of 1973, the entire world was affected by the Oil Shock due to the massive hike in the oil prices by the Arab nations. It led to economic turmoil in India resulting in high inflation. As you will read in Chapter Six, many agitations were going on in the country around this time, including a nationwide railway strike.”
Why relevant
Explains India's stance on non-proliferation treaties and characterizes its nuclear policy as focused on peaceful uses despite refusal to sign NPT/CTBT.
How to extend
Knowing India insisted on civilian-use framing, a researcher could look for action plans that specifically prioritize civilian cooperation rather than weapons programs.
Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 88: Foreign Policy > NUCLEAR DOCTRINE OF INDIA > p. 611
Strength: 3/5
“~NUCLEAR DOCTRINE OF INDIA India's nuclear doctrine can be summarised as. follows: • 1. Building and maintaining a credible minimum deterrent. • 2. A posture of "No First Use~ nuclear weapons will only be used in retaliation against a nuclear attack on Indian territory or on Indian forces anywhere. I • 3. Nuclear retaliation to a first strike will be massive and designed to inflict unacceptable damage. • 4. Nuclear retaliatory attacks can only be authorised by the civilian political leadership through the Nuclear Command Authority. • 5. Non-use of nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapon states. • 6. However, in the event of a major attack against India, or Indian forces anywhere, by biological or chemical weapons, India will retain the option of retaliating with nuclear weapons.”
Why relevant
Summarizes India's nuclear doctrine, including civilian political control and restrictions on use, indicating domestic governance structures that would affect signing/approval of international nuclear cooperation documents.
How to extend
A student could use this to expect that any action plan would require clearance by India's civilian leadership and Nuclear Command Authority–related processes, guiding where to look for official authorization records.
Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 39: After Nehru... > Foreign Policy and Relations with other Countries > p. 701
Strength: 3/5
“The Treaty of Friendship with the USSR was a move to counter the Chinese closeness with Pakistan. When the US introduced a resolution in the UN Security Council calling for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of armed forces by India and Pakistan after Pakistan began the attack on the western front, the Soviet Union vetoed the resolution. Though the Soviet Union was not happy with India's nuclear test of 1974, it did not support further action against India. Certainly, there was a tilt towards the Soviet Union for pragmatic reasons during the times of Indira Gandhi. United States From the time Indira Gandhi came to power, the relations with the US were strained.”
Why relevant
Notes the historical oscillation in India–US relations and that rapprochement (e.g., during visits) produced declarations on nuclear cooperation.
How to extend
From this pattern, one could check joint declarations or visit communiqués (for example Bush's 2006 visit) for references to specific implementation/action plans.
Contemporary World Politics, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 3: Contemporary South Asia > TIMELINE OF SOUTH ASIA SINCE 1947 > p. 32
Strength: 2/5
“1947: India and Pakistan emerge as independent nations after the end of British rule 1948: Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) gains independence; Indo-Pak conflict over Kashmir 1954-55: Pakistan joins the Cold War military blocs, SEATO and CENTO 1960: India and Pakistan sign the Indus Waters Treaty 1962: Border conflict between India and China 1965: Indo-Pak War; UN India-Pakistan Observation Mission 1966: India and Pakistan sign the Tashkent Agreement; Six-point proposal of Sheikh Mujib-ur Rahman for greater autonomy to East Pakistan 1971 March: Proclamation of Independence by leaders of Bangladesh August : Indo-Soviet Treaty of Friendship signed for 20 years December : Indo-Pak War, Liberation of Bangladesh 1972 July: India and Pakistan sign the Simla Agreement 1974 May: India conducts nuclear test 1976: Pakistan and Bangladesh establish diplomatic ties 1985 December: South Asian leaders sign the SAARC Charter at the first summit in Dhaka 1987: Indo-Sri Lanka Accord; Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) operation in Sri Lanka (1987-90) 1988: India sends troops to the Maldives to foil a coup attempt by mercenaries India and Pakistan sign the agreement not to attack nuclear installations and facilities of each other 1988-91: Democracy restoration in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal 1996 December: India and Bangladesh sign the Farakka Treaty for sharing of the Ganga Waters 1998 May: India and Pakistan conduct nuclear tests December: India and Sri Lanka sign the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) 1999 February: Indian PM Vajpayee undertakes bus journey to Lahore to sign a Peace Declaration June-July: Kargil conflict between India and Pakistan 2001 July: Vajpayee - Musharraf Agra Summit unsuccessful 2004 January: SAFTA signed at the 12th SAARC Summit in Islamabad 2007: Afghanistan joins SAARC 2014 November: The 18th SAARC Summit in Kathmandu, Nepal In that sense the South Asian experience of democracy has expanded the global imagination of democracy.”
Why relevant
Provides a timeline of South Asian events including the period (post-2004) when Indo-US nuclear engagement intensified.
How to extend
Using the timeline context, a student could narrow searches to the mid/late 2000s for bilateral action plans on nuclear cooperation.
Pattern takeaway:
UPSC loves specific nomenclature of diplomatic instruments. They move beyond 'Did they sign a deal?' to 'What was the exact name of the deal?'. Focus on the specific phrasing of outcome documents during Annual Summits.
How you should have studied
- [THE VERDICT]: Current Affairs Sitter (if you tracked the Oct 2018 India-Russia Summit) / Bouncer (if you ignored specific MoU titles). Source: PIB release on 19th India-Russia Annual Summit.
- [THE CONCEPTUAL TRIGGER]: Bilateral Nuclear Cooperation & Energy Security (GS-2 IR).
- [THE HORIZONTAL EXPANSION]: Memorize parallel strategic agreements: India-USA (123 Agreement, LEMOA, COMCASA, BECA); India-Japan (2016 Civil Nuclear Deal - significant as Japan is the only non-nuclear weapon state to sign this with non-NPT India); India-Australia (Uranium supply); India-France (Jaitapur project).
- [THE STRATEGIC METACOGNITION]: When a Head of State visits (especially P5 nations like Russia, USA, France), do not stop at the editorial analysis. Go to the MEA website, find the 'List of Agreements/MoUs exchanged', and note down any agreement with a long, bureaucratic title like 'Action Plan for...' or 'Roadmap for...'.
Concept hooks from this question
👉 India's stance on NPT and CTBT
💡 The insight
India has viewed the Nuclear Non‑Proliferation Treaty as discriminatory and refused to sign the NPT and the CTBT.
High‑yield for UPSC because India's refusal to join NPT/CTBT explains its independent nuclear posture and frames its bilateral nuclear diplomacy. This concept links to questions on non‑proliferation, nuclear doctrine, and international negotiations, enabling answers on causes and consequences of India's policy choices.
📚 Reading List :
- Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > Fast Forward India's Nuclear Programme > p. 69
- Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > India's nuclear policy > p. 68
- Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 88: Foreign Policy > II I Disarmament > p. 610
🔗 Anchor: "Did India sign the "Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Coopera..."
👉 1998 nuclear tests and global reaction
💡 The insight
India conducted nuclear tests in May 1998, provoking international criticism and sanctions that were later waived.
Important for explaining shifts in India's foreign relations and sanctions diplomacy; useful for questions on how nuclear tests affected regional security, India‑Pakistan dynamics, and subsequent efforts to normalise nuclear cooperation with other states.
📚 Reading List :
- Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > Fast Forward India's Nuclear Programme > p. 69
- Contemporary World Politics, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 5: Security in the Contemporary World > India's Security Strategy > p. 77
🔗 Anchor: "Did India sign the "Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Coopera..."
👉 Indo‑US civilian nuclear agreement (2005–2008)
💡 The insight
Negotiations culminated in a civilian nuclear cooperation understanding between India and the United States, finalised in 2008 after diplomatic and regulatory approvals.
Exam‑relevant because it illustrates how India negotiated exemptions and access to nuclear fuel/technology while accepting safeguards—key for answers on strategic partnerships, nuclear diplomacy, and the role of multilateral institutions like the IAEA and NSG.
📚 Reading List :
- Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 39: After Nehru... > Foreign Relations > p. 761
🔗 Anchor: "Did India sign the "Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Coopera..."
👉 Indo‑Russian nuclear and energy cooperation
💡 The insight
Russia has been a major partner for India's nuclear energy plans and energy imports, making bilateral nuclear cooperation a recurring component of the relationship.
High-yield for UPSC because questions often probe strategic partnerships and energy diplomacy; connects to defence procurement, civil nuclear deals, and energy security topics; enables answering questions on bilateral frameworks and sectoral cooperation between India and major powers.
📚 Reading List :
- Contemporary World Politics, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 1: The End of Bipolarity > Ideas for the Teacher > p. 13
- Contemporary World Politics, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 1: The End of Bipolarity > FLASHBACK: INDIA AND THE USSR > p. 12
🔗 Anchor: "Did India sign the "Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Coopera..."
👉 India's stance on non‑proliferation treaties and its nuclear doctrine
💡 The insight
India has historically rejected the NPT as discriminatory and maintained a defined nuclear doctrine (credible minimum deterrent, No First Use), which frames its international nuclear cooperation choices.
Essential for UPSC because it links domestic doctrine to foreign policy and treaty behaviour; useful for questions on nuclear diplomacy, arms control, and India’s strategic autonomy; helps explain why India negotiates selective bilateral nuclear arrangements rather than universal treaty adherence.
📚 Reading List :
- Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > Fast Forward India's Nuclear Programme > p. 69
- Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > India's nuclear policy > p. 68
- Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 88: Foreign Policy > NUCLEAR DOCTRINE OF INDIA > p. 611
🔗 Anchor: "Did India sign the "Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Coopera..."
👉 India‑Russia strategic partnership and breadth of bilateral agreements
💡 The insight
The 2001 Indo‑Russian Strategic Agreement created a framework under which many bilateral pacts — across defence, energy, and nuclear fields — have been concluded.
Useful for UPSC because it situates sectoral cooperation within a formal strategic framework; helps answer questions about the institutional basis for bilateral ties, the scope of agreements, and continuity from USSR ties to present Russia relations.
📚 Reading List :
- Contemporary World Politics, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 1: The End of Bipolarity > FLASHBACK: INDIA AND THE USSR > p. 12
- Contemporary World Politics, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 1: The End of Bipolarity > Ideas for the Teacher > p. 13
🔗 Anchor: "Did India sign the "Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Coopera..."
👉 India's stance on NPT and CTBT
💡 The insight
India viewed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty as discriminatory and refused to join the CTBT, keeping its nuclear options open.
Understanding India's non-proliferation stance explains its diplomatic behaviour on nuclear issues, sanctions, and treaty negotiations—frequently tested in polity and international relations questions. This concept links to topics on global nuclear governance, sovereign security choices, and India's treaty negotiations, enabling answers on causes of treaty resistance and policy continuity.
📚 Reading List :
- Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > Fast Forward India's Nuclear Programme > p. 69
- Politics in India since Independence, Textbook in political science for Class XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Indi External Relations > India's nuclear policy > p. 68
🔗 Anchor: "Did India sign the "Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Coopera..."
In the same 2018 summit, the S-400 Triumf air defence system deal was concluded. A logical future question would be on the 'Program for Military-Technical Cooperation (2021-2031)' signed subsequently with Russia, or the 'Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET)' with the USA.
Analyze the words 'Prioritization and Implementation'. This implies a mature, existing relationship with a backlog of projects that need sorting. India-USA nuclear deals were stuck on liability clauses; India-Japan was new and hesitant; India-UK is low volume. India-Russia (Kudankulam) is an old, heavy portfolio requiring 'Implementation' plans. Russia is the most logical fit for 'deepening operational work'.
Connects to GS-3 Energy Security. Nuclear energy is the base-load option for India's decarbonization. Russia is currently the only foreign partner with operational commercial nuclear power plants in India (Kudankulam), making 'Implementation' plans vital compared to the 'Enabling' agreements with USA/France which are still in planning phases.