India’s nuclear doctrine outlines the principles and guidelines that govern the country’s nuclear policy, strategy, and posture. It serves as a framework for India’s nuclear capabilities, deterrence posture, and nuclear decision-making process. India’s nuclear doctrine has evolved over time in response to changes in the global security environment and developments in its own strategic capabilities.
India’s nuclear doctrine is characterized by several key principles and components:-
No First Use (NFU): India’s nuclear doctrine is based on a policy of No First Use, which means that India pledges not to use nuclear weapons first in any conflict scenario. This NFU policy underscores India’s commitment to nuclear restraint and emphasizes the defensive nature of its nuclear posture. However, India reserves the right to respond with nuclear weapons to a nuclear attack or a large-scale chemical or biological attack.
Minimum Credible Deterrence (MCD): India’s nuclear doctrine is guided by the principle of Minimum Credible Deterrence, which aims to maintain a nuclear arsenal that is adequate to deter potential adversaries from initiating a nuclear attack against India. The concept of MCD emphasizes the need for a credible and effective deterrent posture while minimizing the size and scale of India’s nuclear arsenal.
Civilian Control: India’s nuclear doctrine emphasizes the importance of civilian control over the country’s nuclear weapons and decision-making process. The civilian leadership, represented by the Prime Minister and the Cabinet Committee on Security, retains ultimate authority over nuclear policy, strategy, and use of nuclear weapons. This ensures democratic oversight and accountability in India’s nuclear decision-making process.
Flexible Response Options: India’s nuclear doctrine includes provisions for flexible response options, allowing for a range of responses to a nuclear threat or attack. This flexibility enables India to tailor its response according to the nature and scale of the threat, while ensuring that nuclear retaliation remains a credible deterrent.
Non-use Against Non-nuclear Weapons States: India’s nuclear doctrine reaffirms its commitment not to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapons states or in response to conventional attacks. This reinforces India’s adherence to the principles of nuclear non-proliferation and its commitment to maintaining nuclear weapons solely for deterrence purposes.
Nuclear Disarmament: India’s nuclear doctrine underscores its commitment to nuclear disarmament and global non-proliferation efforts. India advocates for the elimination of nuclear weapons worldwide and actively participates in international forums and initiatives aimed at promoting disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control.
India’s nuclear doctrine reflects its strategic objectives, security concerns, and commitment to nuclear restraint and responsibility. It is designed to ensure the credibility of India’s nuclear deterrent while promoting regional stability, peace, and security in South Asia and beyond.
