SC

Sapna ChandelAIR 356· 2025

Question Q.4GS1GS1

Discuss the significance of the 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests as a transformative moment in India's post-independence history.

Open scan (p.7)

Introduction

Operation Smiling Buddha yield Foundation of India's Nuclear capability Strengthened by Pokhran Nuclear test.

14 words

Main Body

Operation Smiling Buddha yield Foundation of India's Nuclear capability Strengthened by Pokhran Nuclear test.

[Reasons & Background of Pokhran test]

1India - Pakistan Conflict & deterrence toll.
2Nuclear Energy for peaceful use
3Self-reliance - under Pokhran USA sword.

[Significance of the test]

1Establishment of the Nuclear doctrine by India
No first use, fairly
minimum credible deterrence
2Nuclear capability development

eg - Establishment of Kundakalam with USA help

3Attain-Bharat & Message - Powerful nuclear state leg - Support figured to Iran, Russia etc.
4Nuclear Energy Capability over 200MQ and target for 2020 is 2047
5Civil Nuclear Agreement - is 123 Deal with USA is 123 Strengthened India's Capability.

[Issues]

1Nuclear base of Pakistan - USA sanctions against India
2USA sanctions against India
3[unclear]

Today India is aiming high to develop with both internal - existent (external) reactor development

150 words16 paragraphs2 bullet points
  • Good introduction with Operation Smiling Buddha reference
  • Structured approach to background and significance
  • Mentions nuclear doctrine
  • Mentions specific initiatives like Kundakalam
  • References 123 Deal with USA
  • Notes issues and international response

Topper

Sapna Chandel

AIR 3562025

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Post-independence Consolidation and Reorganization within the country

Nuclear capability

Pokhran Nuclear Tests 1998

Writing Stats

164

Total words

16

Paragraphs

2

Bullets

analytical

Tone