UPSC Prelims 2018 Q7: Science & Technology – Energy & Environment
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (a) 1 only
Explanation
Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) - Membership Consequences
| Statement | Claim | Verdict | Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NSG membership gives access to latest and most efficient nuclear technologies | TRUE | NSG is a 48-member export-control cartel governing trade in nuclear materials, equipment and dual-use technology. Members share technology under Guidelines Part 1 (nuclear) and Part 2 (dual-use) and are trusted counterparties for civilian nuclear cooperation. |
| 2 | NSG membership automatically makes the country a member of the NPT | FALSE | NSG and NPT are separate regimes. NSG was created in 1974 (after India's 'Smiling Buddha' test) as a supplier's cartel. NPT (Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons) opened for signature in 1968. Being in NSG does NOT confer NPT membership; a country must sign the NPT separately. India, notably, has never signed NPT but got a 2008 NSG waiver for civil nuclear trade. |
Answer: (a) 1 only.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Only Statement 1 is right - NSG membership opens access to advanced nuclear technology transfers among members.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 2 is factually wrong - NSG and NPT are independent regimes.
- (c) Incorrect. Statement 2 wrongly ties NSG membership to automatic NPT membership.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 1 is correct - NSG membership does enable technology access.
Key point
NSG facts: 48-member cartel, formed 1974 post-India Pokhran-I. Governs export of nuclear items via Trigger List (Part 1) and Dual-Use List (Part 2). NSG and NPT are separate; India has NPT-free status but a 2008 NSG waiver.
Remember
The Nuclear Suppliers Group is a 48-member export-control cartel formed in 1974 that regulates trade in nuclear materials and dual-use technology. Membership gives access to advanced nuclear technology cooperation, but NSG membership is entirely separate from NPT membership - they are distinct regimes. India has a 2008 NSG waiver but is not a member and has never signed the NPT.
Common mistakes
- Confusing NSG with the NPT, IAEA or CTBT - they are four distinct regimes with different memberships and mandates.
- Assuming India is an NSG member - India is NOT a member; it has a 2008 waiver allowing civil nuclear trade.
- Believing NSG decisions are by majority - NSG works by CONSENSUS, which is why any single member can block India's entry.
Exam tip
Nuclear regimes shorthand: NSG = trade rules (48 states). NPT = non-proliferation treaty (191 states). IAEA = inspections/safeguards (UN body). CTBT = test ban treaty (not in force). India: outside NPT/CTBT; has NSG waiver.
Sources
- Nuclear Suppliers Group - Guidelines Part 1 and Part 2 (Public Documents)
- MEA India Briefing - India and the Nuclear Suppliers Group