Volume : 2, Issue : 5, May - 2013

A Pragmatist Perspective of India�s Peaceful Nuclear Explosion

Ms. Sunayana

Abstract :

Nehru and Indira Gandhi had a made remarkable contribution in the evolution of Indian foreign policy and nuclear programme. Nehru laid the strong basis for peaceful purposes of nuclear power and he remained staunch supporter and preacher of it. He wanted India to remain committed to peaceful use of nuclear energy even in future as nuclear weapons cause wide spread destruction and they were against humanity. Nehru pursued idealism in terms of conduct of nuclear policy. Though Indira Gandhi followed footsteps of her predecessors particularly her father, however, she exhibited pragmatism with regard to use nuclear power. Earlier defeat in war with China, conduct of nuclear test by China, movement of US 7th Fleet coupled with domestic factors of declining image of Indira Gandhi and her government proved very decisive in going for Peaceful Nuclear Explosion. Nuclear test not only improved her own image but also showed to world India’s capability in science and technology.