Which among the following is not a ground for justification of India’s nuclear tests in 1998?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → China became a member of the OECD
Option (1) China became a member of the OECD Not a ground (Correct). India’s nuclear tests in 1998 were justified on the grounds of a threat from China, and the grounds were all about security: China’s help to Pakistan’s nuclear programme and its military ties in South Asia. Membership of an economic organisation like the OECD is not a military threat to India.
Option (2) China’s contribution in the build up of Pakistan’s nuclear programme. A ground (Incorrect). China was seen as contributing to the build up of Pakistan’s nuclear programme.
Option (3) China’s military relations with Bangladesh A ground (Incorrect). China’s military relations with Bangladesh and Myanmar were viewed as hostile to Indian interests in South Asia.
Option (4) China’s military relations with Myanmar A ground (Incorrect). As with Bangladesh, these ties were seen as hostile to Indian interests.
NCERT (2025-26): “India – China Relations … At the global level, India and China have adopted similar policies in international economic institutions like the World Trade Organisation. India’s nuclear tests in 1998, was justified on the grounds of a threat from China, did not stop greater interaction. It is true that China was seen as contributing to the build up of Pakistan’s nuclear programme. China’s military relations with Bangladesh and Myanmar were viewed as hostile to Indian interests in South Asia.…” |