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Nuclear arms control

Elimination of Nuclear Weapons: A Universal Imperative

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Indian nuclear scientist Anil Kakodkar has reiterated the necessity of eliminating nuclear weapons globally, not on a selective basis, in response to the United States' decision to resume nuclear testing. Kakodkar, a former chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, emphasized the need for a universal approach to disarmament, warning that selective elimination would be impractical. His remarks came during a presentation on 'Taking Bhabha Legacy Forward', organised to commemorate Dr Homi Bhabha's 116th birth anniversary.

Key Takeaways:

  • Anil Kakodkar, former chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, advocates for the universal elimination of nuclear weapons, citing it as an imperative for global peace.
  • Kakodkar believes that selective elimination of nuclear weapons is impractical and would create an uneven playing field among nations.
  • He emphasizes the need for a universal approach to disarmament, with all nations working together to dismantle their nuclear arsenals.
  • Kakodkar draws inspiration from Dr Homi Bhabha's vision of self-reliance, but also recognizes the importance of international collaboration.
  • The scientist highlights Bhabha's key role in establishing the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its headquarters in Vienna, considered a neutral location.
  • Kakodkar expresses skepticism about the impact of US President Donald Trump's decision to resume nuclear testing on global nuclear dynamics.
  • He believes that the decision may lead to instability, but adds that its full implications are uncertain.

Statistics:

  • India conducted nuclear tests in 1974 and 1998.
  • The country's nuclear arsenal is not publicly disclosed.
  • The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was established in 1957.
  • Vienna, Austria, is the headquarters of the IAEA.
  • Anil Kakodkar is a renowned Indian nuclear scientist and former chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission.

Sources:

  • Anil Kakodkar, former chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, as quoted in TOI.
  • TOI, prior to presentation on 'Taking Bhabha Legacy Forward'.
  • F D Alpaiwalla Museum and the Museum Society of Mumbai.

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