Three-stage nuclear programme; thorium cycle; nuclear treaties (NPT, CTBT)
0/5 stages complete · 0% coverage
UPSC tests India's three-stage nuclear programme as a factual recall item, with emphasis on why India designed a thorium-based approach and the strategic implications of NPT/CTBT non-signatory status. Questions often cross with international relations on nuclear deterrence and energy security. Common error: confusing stages or misremembering thorium's role in Stage 3.
Homi Bhabha's three-stage vision: natural uranium, plutonium, thorium independence
Stage 1: PHWRs on natural uranium; Stage 2: FBRs breed plutonium; Stage 3: thorium-U233 cycle
India signed NPT as non-weapon state; did not sign CTBT despite pressure
Thorium advantage: abundant in India, breeds fissile U-233 in thermal reactors
Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) waiver 2008 enabled India's civil nuclear expansion