China Stalls India’s NSG Bid Despite IAEA’s Strong Endorsement
Recently, IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi expressed strong support for India’s entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), acknowledging India’s responsible nuclear policies and its role in the global nuclear energy sector. However, China remains the biggest obstacle to India’s membership bid.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is a global organization that promotes the peaceful use of nuclear energy while preventing its misuse of nuclear weapons. Established in 1957, the IAEA ensures nuclear safety, security, and safeguards, working with member nations to regulate and oversee nuclear programs. The agency conducts inspections, technical assistance, and advisory services to ensure compliance with international nuclear agreements. The NSG is a 48-member organization that regulates the export and transfer of nuclear materials and technology to prevent nuclear proliferation. Established in 1974 in response to India’s first nuclear test, the NSG ensures that nuclear materials are used only for peaceful purposes. The group includes powerful nations such as the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom—all of whom are also permanent members of the UN Security Council (UNSC). Key Objectives of NSG:
- Prevent nuclear proliferation by controlling the export of nuclear-related materials.
- Ensure peaceful use of nuclear energy by its member nations.
- Support nuclear safety and security standards globally.
- Facilitate responsible nuclear trade among member nations
India has been pushing for NSG membership since 2004, formally applying in 2016. If accepted, India would gain access to advanced nuclear technology, fuel, and materials, strengthening its civilian nuclear energy sector. Despite strong support from countries like Russia and the U.S., China has consistently blocked India’s bid.
China argues that India has not signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), a requirement for NSG membership. The NPT, signed in 1968, is an international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. It classifies countries into two groups: Nuclear-Weapon States (NWS): USA, Russia, UK, France, and China—who can legally possess nuclear weapons. Non-Nuclear-Weapon States (NNWS): Other countries, which must not develop or acquire nuclear weapons. As per NSG rules, only NPT signatories can become members. Since India never signed the NPT, China claims that allowing India in would violate NSG’s principles. Ironically, China supports Pakistan’s nuclear program despite its history of nuclear proliferation violations.
While opposing India’s NSG bid due to the NPT requirement, China helped Pakistan acquire nuclear weapons technology, bypassing NSG rules. This clearly proves China’s double standards and its urge to block India in every possible sector.
On the other hand, India refused to sign the NPT because it considers the treaty discriminatory. The NPT allows five countries (P-5) to retain nuclear weapons while forcing others to disarm. India believes this creates an unfair global power structure. Despite not signing the NPT, India has an excellent record of responsible nuclear policies, which sets it apart from nations like Pakistan. India follows strict nuclear security measures, including:
- Non-First Use (NFU) Policy – India has pledged never to use nuclear weapons first in a conflict.
- Voluntary Ban on Nuclear Testing – India has not conducted nuclear tests since 1998.
- Regular IAEA Inspections – India allows IAEA monitoring of its civilian nuclear facilities.
- Civilian Control of Nuclear Arsenal – India has a well-structured nuclear command under civilian leadership.
- No History of Nuclear Proliferation – Unlike Pakistan, which has been accused of nuclear proliferation, India has never shared nuclear technology with unauthorized nations.
Benefits of NSG Membership for India:
- Access to Global Nuclear Technology & Fuel – India can trade uranium and advanced nuclear reactors from member nations.
- Boost to India’s Energy Sector – With growing energy demands, NSG membership can help India expand its nuclear power capacity.
- Strategic Global Positioning – Membership strengthens India’s position as a responsible nuclear power.
- Economic Growth – NSG membership enables India to export nuclear technology and materials to other nations.
The big question remains: Can India gain NSG entry without signing the NPT? The United States, Russia, France, and the UK strongly support India’s bid, recognizing its responsible nuclear policies. Many NSG members believe India should be granted an exception, similar to the India-U.S. Civil Nuclear Deal of 2008, which allowed India to engage in nuclear trade without NPT membership. China continues to block consensus, for India’s NSG membership. China’s stance is seen as a political move to favour Pakistan and counter India’s global rise.
India’s inclusion in the Nuclear Suppliers Group would be a historic step, strengthening its nuclear energy sector, strategic position, and international partnerships. While China remains the primary obstacle, India’s track record of nuclear responsibility, global support, and strategic diplomacy make a strong case for NSG membership. Will India compromise by signing the NPT, or will the NSG modify its rules to accommodate India? The coming years will determine if India can break through China’s resistance and secure its rightful place in the global nuclear order.
