Twenty-six years ago, under the leadership of NDA Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, India conducted the Shakti series of nuclear tests at Pokhran, marking a significant moment in the nation's nuclear capabilities and energy landscape.
The tests, conducted on May 5 and May 11, 1998, catapulted India into the league of nuclear weapon states, showcasing a range of devices from thermonuclear to tactical. Since then, India has made remarkable strides in bolstering its nuclear triad and achieving a robust second-strike capability, notably with the introduction of nuclear-powered ballistic missile-firing submarines.
Today, India boasts a formidable arsenal, including the 5000 km range land-based Agni ballistic missile and the 3000 km range K-4 submarine-based ballistic missile, providing a comprehensive defense against threats posed by neighboring countries, particularly China and Pakistan.
Notably, Vajpayee's decision to conduct the tests was a watershed moment in India's nuclear policy, as it openly acknowledged China as a key factor behind its nuclear aspirations. In a letter to then US President Bill Clinton, Vajpayee underscored India's concerns about China's overt nuclear weapons status and its role in aiding other countries in nuclear proliferation.
Despite facing opposition and international pressure, particularly from the United States, India successfully defended its nuclear stance and emerged as a key player in global nuclear diplomacy. Four years later, India was offered a civilian nuclear deal by then Secretary of State Colin Powell, despite being labeled a nuclear pariah by much of the international community.
In recent years, India's nuclear capabilities have been instrumental in addressing security challenges, particularly in response to terrorist threats emanating from Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decisive actions, including surgical strikes and Operation Bandar, have showcased India's resolve in countering terrorism and defending its sovereignty.
Moreover, India has leveraged its nuclear expertise to pursue clean energy initiatives, aligning itself with global efforts to combat climate change. The legacy of the Pokhran tests continues to resonate, symbolizing India's assertion of its global stature and commitment to safeguarding its national interests.As India commemorates the anniversary of the Pokhran tests, it reflects on its journey as a responsible nuclear power and reaffirms its dedication to peace, security, and progress on the world stage.
