The issue of Indo-US nuclear deal between India and the United States has elicited varied reactions from different quarters in India as well as abroad. The Indo-US nuclear deal has now put a question mark on the survival of the UPA government. Here is an overview of the deal and its implications -  

What Is The Indo-US Nuclear Deal?   

By amending the Section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, the legislation permits the United States to provide a one-time concession to India to remain outside the purview of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) but keep its nuclear weapons.  

After India conducted its very first nuclear test in 1974, the United States slapped a ban that prohibits providing it nuclear fuel and technology. This amendment upturns this 30 year old ban.

India is also required to separate its civilian and military facilities under this amendment, apart from also permitting the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to inspect its civilian facilities.

Why Is The Indo-US Nuclear Deal Controversial?

The NPT stipulates that only those nations who give up nuclear weapons are eligible for civilian nuclear help and so the critics are of the opinion that this deal will undermine the NPT.

It is believed that the Indo-US Nuclear Deal will send across a wrong message. It could weaken the US led campaign against Iran’s nuclear program and also result in arms race in South Asia. 

India states that 14 of its 22 nuclear facilities happen to be civilian. The critics underscore that the deal could make bomb making at the remaining eight easier, as civilian nuclear fuel needs will be met by the US.

What Do Supporters Of The Indo-US Nuclear Deal Say?

George W Bush, the President of Us, says that this nuke deal is important as it will enhance relations between the two countries. The deal serves to fortify international security by tightening US ties to ally India.  

India relies on imported oil to meet 70 per cent of its energy requirements. New Delhi says that the deal will help it feed its rapidly burgeoning economy.

In February 2006, France inked a similar deal with India. France says that the deal will help fight climate change and aid non-proliferation efforts.

How Is Pakistan Involved?  

A similar civilian technology deal was sought by Pakistan from the United States but it got rejected last in March. Pakistan is the only other nuclear power which has not joined the NPT and states that it will do so only after India does.  

The expanding nuclear program of Pakistan could sharpen its rivalry with India.