- Formation: The NSG was established in 1974 as a response to India’s first nuclear test (Smiling Buddha). It is a multinational body of nuclear supplier countries aimed at controlling the export of nuclear materials, technologies, and equipment.
- Objective: The primary objective of the NSG is to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and their means of delivery. It seeks to achieve this goal by controlling the export of nuclear-related technology and materials.
- Membership: The NSG is composed of 48 participating governments. Members include countries possessing advanced nuclear technology and are committed to the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.
- Dual-Use Technology: The NSG guidelines focus on controlling the export of dual-use items and technologies that can be used for both peaceful nuclear activities and nuclear weapon development.
- Guidelines: The NSG has established a set of guidelines that member states adhere to when exporting nuclear-related items. These guidelines help regulate nuclear commerce and ensure that exports do not contribute to nuclear weapons proliferation.
- Export Controls: The NSG guidelines place restrictions on the transfer of nuclear-related equipment, materials, and technologies to non-nuclear-weapon states. Exports are subject to strict non-proliferation conditions and recipient state commitments.
- India’s Membership: India has not been a member of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which is typically a prerequisite for joining the NSG. However, in 2008, the NSG granted India a waiver that allows for nuclear trade with NSG members despite not being an NPT signatory.