UPSC Prelims 2017 Q28: Science & Technology – Energy & Environment
Consider the following statements:
1. The Nuclear Security Summits are periodically held under the aegis of the United Nations.
2. The International Panel on Fissile Materials is an organ of International Atomic Energy Agency.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Explanation
Nuclear security bodies
| Statement | Verdict | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Nuclear Security Summits are held under the UN | Incorrect | They were a US-led initiative of President Obama, held 2010-2016, outside the UN |
| 2. The International Panel on Fissile Materials is an IAEA organ | Incorrect | The IPFM is an independent group of experts, founded in 2006 and based at Princeton |
Nuclear Security Summits:
| Year | Host |
|---|---|
| 2010 | Washington DC |
| 2012 | Seoul |
| 2014 | The Hague |
| 2016 | Washington DC |
Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The summits were a US initiative, not held under the UN.
- (b) Incorrect. The IPFM is an independent expert body, not part of the IAEA.
- (c) Incorrect. Both statements misattribute these bodies to the UN and IAEA.
- (d) CORRECT. The summits were US-led and the IPFM is an independent expert panel.
Key point
Nuclear Security Summits: US-led, 2010-2016 (Obama), not UN. International Panel on Fissile Materials: independent experts (2006, Princeton), not IAEA.
Remember
NSS = US-led; IPFM = independent.
Common mistakes
- Assuming every nuclear forum works under the UN or IAEA.
- Taking the word 'International' in IPFM's name to mean an official agency.
- Forgetting that the summits ended in 2016.
Exam tip
Check who runs a body. Many 'international' bodies are independent or led by one country.
Sources
- International Panel on Fissile Materials — About IPFM
- Communiqué of the Washington Nuclear Security Summit (13 April 2010)