Why in the news?
As of May 17, Iran holds 408.6 kg of enriched uranium (near to the weapons-grade level) up to 60%, up sharply from 274.8 kg in February 2024, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
About the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA):
- What it is: The IAEA is an international organization that promotes the peaceful use of nuclear energy and ensures it is not used for making nuclear weapons.
- Establishment: It was created in 1957 following U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower’s “Atoms for Peace” speech. It is autonomous but reports to the UN General Assembly and Security Council.
- Where it is based: Its headquarters is in Vienna, Austria, at the UN Office.
- Members: The IAEA has 178 member countries, including India, which was a founding member.
- Key Roles:
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- Promote peaceful nuclear technology use.
- Prevent nuclear weapon development through safeguards.
- Set safety and security standards for nuclear plants and materials.
- Global Responsibilities:
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- It monitors the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) to make sure countries don’t misuse nuclear materials.
- It performs inspections, gives training, and supports countries in nuclear emergencies.
- Recognition: In 2005, the IAEA won the Nobel Peace Prize for stopping the spread of nuclear weapons.
IAEA and India:
- India is a founding member: It supports the IAEA’s mission for peaceful nuclear development.
- Nuclear Reactors Monitoring: Out of 22 nuclear reactors, 14 are monitored by the IAEA. These reactors use imported uranium from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Canada.
- Obligations imposed: In 2014, under the Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement, India accepted IAEA safeguards to show transparency.
| [UPSC 2020] In India, why are some nuclear reactors kept “IAEA Safeguards” while others are not?
Options: (a) Some use uranium and others use thorium (b) Some use imported uranium, and others use domestic supplies* (c) Some are operated by foreign enterprises and others are operated by domestic (d) Some are State-owned and others are privately-owned |
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