| PYQ Relevance: Q) In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the national interest of India? How should India respond to its situation? (UPSC CSE 2018) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on the Nuclear Pact Controversy (2018), and ‘India a position in its global strategy ’ (2019).
In 2025, we mark 80 years since the first nuclear test and the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which killed up to 2,46,000 people. Citing the Bhagavad Gita, Oppenheimer described the destruction as “Death by a thousand suns.” On Nagasaki’s bombing day, Bertrand Russell warned humanity to choose between destruction or adopting wiser political thinking.
Today’s editorial talks about the nuclear power challenges in the world due to nuclear proliferation by Countries. In this situation how India can play an important role in promoting peace. This content can be used in IR topics GS Paper 2.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
It’s time for India to take action for peace since there are no great figures like Russell, Einstein, or Rotblat left to warn the world.
| What historical peace initiatives can serve as models for current and future efforts? • Russell-Einstein Manifesto (1955): This document, drafted by prominent scientists including Bertrand Russell and Albert Einstein, called for global disarmament and emphasized the need for humanity to remember its shared values over national interests. • Avadi Resolution (1955): Passed by the Indian National Congress, this resolution called for the prohibition of atomic and hydrogen bombs and urged the United Nations to address the grave threat posed by nuclear weapons. It anticipated the need for global awareness regarding the dangers of war and weapons of mass destruction. • Rajiv Gandhi’s Action Plan (1988): This initiative aimed for a nuclear-free world and emphasized non-violence. Gandhi’s approach sought to engage international leaders in discussions about disarmament and peace, reflecting a commitment to global security. |
How can India leverage its unique position to contribute to global peace initiatives?
- Nuclear Weapons State: As one of the nine countries with nuclear capabilities, India has a critical role in discussions about disarmament and non-proliferation. Its experience and perspective can foster dialogue among nuclear states and promote responsible stewardship of these weapons.
- Historical Leadership: India’s past leadership in peace initiatives, such as the Avadi Resolution, positions it as a potential mediator in current geopolitical tensions. By advocating for disarmament based on historical precedents, India can influence global norms around nuclear weapons.
- Cultural Emphasis on Non-Violence: India’s philosophical foundation in non-violence can be leveraged to promote peaceful resolutions to conflicts, encouraging other nations to adopt similar approaches in international relations.
What challenges does India face in enhancing its role in international peace efforts?
- Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing conflicts with neighbouring countries, particularly Pakistan and China, complicate India’s ability to advocate for disarmament without appearing vulnerable. These tensions may hinder collaborative peace efforts.
- Domestic Political Landscape: Political dynamics within India can affect its foreign policy priorities. A focus on national security may overshadow initiatives aimed at global peace, making it challenging to balance domestic concerns with international responsibilities.
- Global Complacency: The prevailing complacency regarding nuclear threats poses a significant challenge. Despite historical lessons from events like the 2004 tsunami or nuclear bombings, many nations remain indifferent to the risks posed by nuclear arsenals, complicating efforts for collective action
Way forward:
- Reviving Multilateral Engagements: India should initiate and lead international conferences focused on disarmament and the prevention of mass annihilation, drawing from its historical peace initiatives.
- Strengthening Regional Cooperation: India must work towards reducing regional tensions with neighbours through confidence-building measures, bilateral dialogues, and showcasing its commitment to non-aggression. This will enable it to credibly advocate for global disarmament and peace.
