Major Provisions of the Treaty

The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) marks 55 years of operation. It is the only binding multilateral agreement that aims for disarmament by Nuclear-Weapon States (NWS) while promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

About the NPT

• Background: Enforced in 1970.
• Membership: 191 States.
• India's Stance: India has not signed the treaty due to the perceived discrimination between "nuclear haves" and "nuclear have-nots."

Major Provisions of the Treaty

• Key Principles:

  • Non-Proliferation: Parties to the treaty must refrain from acquiring or transferring nuclear weapons.
  • Disarmament.
  • Access to peaceful nuclear technology.

• Role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA):
  The IAEA ensures compliance with the treaty through inspections. Established in 1957 under the United Nations, the IAEA works to promote the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technologies.

• Review of Treaty Operations: The treaty is reviewed every five years.

Significance of the NPT Today

• Rising Nuclear Threats: New risks include the proliferation of small arms and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.

• Strengthening of Nuclear Arsenals: According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), many nations have been expanding their nuclear arsenals.

• Weakening Nuclear Diplomacy: For example, Russia has withdrawn its ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).

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