The 1962 Sino-Indian War served as a painful reminder of the limitations of conventional forces, cementing the belief that only nuclear parity could guarantee a secure boundary and command respect on the world stage. The program is a multifaceted instrument of statecraft, blending hard power with diplomatic nuance.
Credible Deterrence: The Foundation of India's Nuclear Doctrine
India’s nuclear program is not an isolated policy decision but a direct response to its specific geopolitical reality. 1974 Pokhran-I Marked India’s official entry into the nuclear club, asserting technological independence.
1998 Pokhran-II Completed the weaponization of the program, establishing full deterrence capability. Facing a border dispute and a vast conventional military imbalance, India viewed nuclear capability as the great equalizer.
Credible Deterrence: The Foundation of India's Nuclear Doctrine
It is a permanent feature of the regional landscape, born from necessity and maintained through a continuous assessment of evolving threats and ambitions. While initially facing sanctions and isolation, New Delhi has successfully leveraged its program to negotiate civil nuclear deals with major powers.
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