Kakodkar: India Must Be NSG Member, Not Just Waiver Holder

Anil Kakodkar, former chairman of India's Atomic Energy Commission, on [date] called on the diplomatic community to intensify efforts for India's full membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), arguing that the current waiver is inadequate. Speaking at [event, if known], Kakodkar emphasized that while the waiver has enabled India to access uranium from the international market, it does not provide the long-term security and recognition that full membership would entail.

Kakodkar, a key architect of India's nuclear program, pointed out that the NSG waiver, granted in 2008, was a significant step but remains a temporary arrangement. "We get a lot of uranium now from the international market, thanks to the NSG waiver. But, it is only a waiver. It is not membership," he said. India has been seeking NSG membership since 2008, but its bid has been blocked by several countries, including China, due to India's non-signatory status to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

The push for full NSG membership comes amid India's expanding nuclear energy ambitions and its growing role in global nuclear commerce. Full membership would allow India to participate in decision-making on nuclear trade and technology transfers, enhancing its strategic autonomy. However, opposition from key NSG members persists, and the diplomatic path remains challenging. Kakodkar's remarks underscore the need for sustained diplomatic engagement to overcome these hurdles and secure India's place in the global nuclear order.