Question 75 from UPSC CSE 2020 - CURRENT AFFAIRS

Question

In India, why are some nuclear reactors kept under "IAEA Safeguards" while others are not?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: B. Some use imported uranium and others use domestic supplies

Strategy: The fundamental factor determining IAEA Safeguards is the source of nuclear fuel. Reactors using imported uranium fall under international agreements, such as the Indo-US nuclear deal, which require safeguards for non-proliferation compliance. Domestically fueled reactors do not have such mandatory oversight. Recognizing that the fuel source--not ownership, enterprise control, or thorium use--is the key differentiator points directly to the correct understanding of the situation.

Key Info: ## International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Safeguards in India

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is a global authority that monitors nuclear programs to ensure civilian, not military, usage. IAEA Safeguards are applied to facilities that use imported nuclear material under international non-proliferation obligations.

### India's Commitments

*   **Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008):** Under this agreement, India consented to place civilian reactors using imported uranium under IAEA supervision. This was a condition for India to access the global nuclear market.
*   **International Sourcing:** India sources uranium internationally from countries like Russia, Kazakhstan, and Canada. These supplies are subject to IAEA safeguard agreements.

### Differentiating Factors for Safeguards

*   **Imported Fuel:** Facilities using imported uranium are subject to IAEA Safeguards.
*   **Domestic Fuel:** Reactors that solely use domestic uranium or thorium (a key component of India's three-stage nuclear power program) are not currently required to be declared for IAEA oversight under existing policies and treaties.

### Irrelevant Factors

*   **Ownership/Operation:** Private participation in reactor operation does not occur in India, as all plants are state-owned. Therefore, statements regarding ownership or operator status are irrelevant to IAEA Safeguards.
*   **Thorium Use:** Thorium-fueled reactors, although part of India's long-term plans, are not a distinguishing factor for IAEA Safeguards under current agreements.

India's nuclear regulatory framework is managed by the Atomic Energy Commission and the Department of Atomic Energy.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: Some use uranium and others use thorium

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: Some are operated by foreign enterprises and others are operated by domestic enterprises

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: Some are State-owned and others are privately-owned