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 the 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.

Explanation

Option (a) is correct

• India signed a comprehensive safeguards agreement (CSA) with the IAEA in 2009 and also subscribed to more scrutiny by the body, entering into an “Additional Protocol” for the Application of Safeguards to Civilian Nuclear Facilities in 2014. It notably strengthens the IAEA’s capacity to ensure the peaceful utilisation of all nuclear materials within nations having comprehensive safeguards agreements. Consequently, civilian nuclear facilities fall under the purview of IAEA safeguards.

Answer: (a) The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards; Difficulty Level: Easy