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Subject: International Relations

  • F-1 Visas for Indian Students Drop

    Why in the News?
    Data from the United States Department of State shows a 69% fall in F-1 visas issued to Indian students in June–July 2025 compared to 2024.

    Key Points:

    • F-1 visa: Non-immigrant visa for international students studying in the U.S.
    • Visas issued to Indians fell from 41,336 (2024) to 12,776 (2025) during the peak admission period.
    • Decline followed stricter immigration measures under Donald Trump’s administration, including:
      • Temporary pause in visa interviews
      • Expanded social media screening for applicants.
    • Chinese students also saw a decline, but smaller (about 56%).
    • Despite the drop, Indians remain the largest international student group in the U.S., with about 3.63 lakh students (31%) in 2024-25.

    F-1 Visa

    • The F-1 visa is a non immigrant student visa issued by the United States that allows foreign students to study full time at accredited academic institutions in the United States.
    • It is the most common visa for international students pursuing higher education in the U.S.
    [2018] Consider the following statements: Human capital formation as a concept is better explained in terms of a process, which enables 1. individuals of a country to accumulate more capital. 2. increasing the knowledge, skill levels and capacities of the people of the country. 3. accumulation of tangible wealth. 4. accumulation of intangible wealth.Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2  (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 4 (d) 1, 3 and 4

  • What are gravity bombs which US is planning to shift to Iran

    Why in the News?

    The United States has announced plans to deploy precision gravity bombs against Iranian targets, signalling a shift in military strategy from remote missile strikes to direct aerial bombing operations. Earlier operations relied on stand-off munitions launched from safe distances to avoid Iranian air defence systems. The move toward gravity bombs suggests that the US military believes Iranian air defences have been significantly degraded in recent operations.

    What are gravity bombs and how do they function?

    1. Free-fall munition: Gravity bombs are unguided bombs without propulsion systems, dropped from aircraft and guided by gravity and aerodynamics toward the target.
    2. Trajectory mechanics: The bomb’s path depends on gravity, aerodynamic drag, aircraft speed, altitude, and release angle.
    3. Modern upgrades: The integration of JDAM kits with GPS guidance and steerable fins converts traditional bombs into precision-guided munitions.
    4. Operational evolution: Despite their historical association with World War-era weapons, modern gravity bombs form a core component of contemporary US Air Force strike capability.
    5. Operational theatres: These bombs have been deployed extensively in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria and also used in conflicts involving Israel in Gaza and Lebanon.

    Why has the United States relied on stand-off weapons until now?

    1. Stand-off strategy: Long-range munitions allow attacks without entering enemy air defence zones, minimizing pilot risk.
    2. Cruise missile systems: Weapons such as the Tomahawk cruise missile are launched from naval destroyers or stealth aircraft and can strike targets hundreds of kilometres away.
    3. Drone warfare: Systems like the LUCAS drone (Low-cost Unmanned Combat Attack System) provide remote strike capability
    4. Risk mitigation: Stand-off weapons reduce the probability of pilot casualties and aircraft losses.
    5. Air defence challenge: Iran’s layered air defence network previously limited the feasibility of direct bombing missions.

    What are the main types of conventional US gravity bombs?

    1. MK-82 (500-pound bomb): Designed for soft targets such as light vehicles, radar installations, and exposed infantry positions.
    2. MK-83 (1,000-pound bomb): Used against reinforced structures, command posts, and smaller bridges.
    3. MK-84 (2,000-pound bomb): A bunker-buster weapon capable of penetrating deep military complexes or large industrial facilities.
    4. Blast impact: The MK-84 can produce craters up to 50 feet wide and 36 feet deep.
    5. Operational series: Current US operations rely primarily on the Mark-80 series bombs equipped with JDAM kits.

    How do conventional gravity bombs differ from nuclear gravity bombs?

    1. Conventional payload: Standard gravity bombs carry chemical explosive charges and cause destruction through blast and fragmentation.
    2. Nuclear variants: The US arsenal also includes nuclear gravity bombs such as the B61 and B83 series, capable of delivering explosive yields measured in kilotons or megatons of TNT.
    3. Strategic control: Nuclear gravity bombs require explicit authorisation from the US President before deployment.
    4. Escalation risk: Their use would represent a major escalation in global nuclear tensions.

    Why is the US shifting from stand-off missiles to gravity bombs?

    1. Cost efficiency: Cruise missiles cost millions of dollars per strike, while gravity bombs cost approximately $25,000-$30,000 when equipped with JDAM kits.
    2. Operational tempo: Cheaper munitions enable sustained high-volume bombing operations.
    3. Air superiority assumption: Direct bombing missions are viable only if a military has neutralised enemy air defence systems.
    4. Tactical trade-off: Gravity bombs reduce costs but increase risk to pilots and aircraft.
    5. Strategic signalling: The shift suggests that US forces believe Iranian anti-aircraft systems have been weakened.

    Which aircraft platforms can deploy these gravity bombs?

    1. F-15 Strike Eagle: Multi-role fighter capable of precision ground strikes.
    2. F-35 stealth fighter: Provides low-observable penetration of defended airspace.
    3. B-52 Stratofortress: Long-range strategic bomber capable of carrying large payloads of conventional bombs.
    4. Operational flexibility: Gravity bombs can be deployed by fighter jets, stealth aircraft, and heavy bombers, enabling diverse operational strategies.

    Conclusion

    The proposed use of gravity bombs reflects a significant tactical transition in modern warfare, from expensive remote missile strikes toward cost-efficient direct bombardment enabled by precision guidance technologies. This shift indicates confidence in degrading Iranian air defence systems while highlighting the continuing relevance of traditional aerial bombs in the era of advanced precision warfare.

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2021] How is S-400 air defence system technically superior to any other system presently available in the world?

    Linkage: This question highlights the role of advanced air defence systems in establishing air superiority, a key factor that determines whether direct bombing missions (such as gravity bomb deployment) are feasible. Understanding such systems helps analyse modern warfare dynamics, including missile defence, aerial dominance, and the strategic use of precision air strikes.

  • Sinking of Iranian Warship: Maritime Law Governing Naval Conflict

    Why in the News

    An Iranian warship IRIS Dena was reportedly torpedoed by a US submarine in the Indian Ocean near Sri Lanka after participating in the MILAN 2026 and the International Fleet Review at Visakhapatnam. The incident has sparked debate about the legal framework governing naval warfare in international waters.

    Key Legal Framework Governing Maritime Conflict

    1. UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea)

    • United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea regulates maritime zones, navigation rights and ocean governance.
    • It mainly governs peacetime maritime activities.
    • It does not directly regulate wartime naval operations.
    • Notably, the United States is not a signatory to UNCLOS.

    2. Law of Naval Warfare

    • During armed conflict, naval warfare laws operate alongside UNCLOS.
    • Key principles include:
      • Warships of enemy states can be legitimate military targets.
      • The laws of armed conflict at sea regulate blockades, attacks, and treatment of vessels.

    3. UN Charter and Use of Force

    • The United Nations Charter provides rules for the use of force.
    • Article 2(4): Prohibits the use of force against another state.
    • Article 51: Allows self-defence in response to an armed attack.

    4. UN Security Council Authorization

    • Under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, the United Nations Security Council can authorise the use of force.
    • However:
      • Requires majority approval.
      • None of the permanent members must use their veto.

    Maritime Zones Relevant to the Incident

    1. Territorial Sea – up to 12 nautical miles from coast (full sovereignty).
    2. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) – up to 200 nautical miles where coastal states have economic rights.
    3. High Seas – international waters beyond national jurisdiction. The attack reportedly occurred in the EEZ of Sri Lanka.
    [2022] With reference to the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements: A coastal state has the right to establish the breadth of its territorial sea up to a limit not exceeding 12 nautical miles, measured from baseline determined in accordance with the convention. Ships of all states, whether coastal or land-locked, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea. The Exclusive Economic Zone shall not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • India–Finland Relations Elevated to Strategic Partnership

    Why in the News

    India and Finland have elevated their bilateral relations to a “Strategic Partnership in Digitalization and Sustainability” after talks between Narendra Modi and Finnish President Alexander Stubb in New Delhi.

    Key Outcomes of the Visit

    Strategic Partnership Focus

    • Cooperation will expand in high-technology sectors such as:
      • Artificial Intelligence
      • 6G telecommunications
      • Clean energy
      • Quantum computing
      • Digital infrastructure

    Agreements Signed

    • Three agreements were signed in the fields of:
      • Mobility cooperation
      • Environment and sustainability
      • Statistics and data sharing

    New Institutional Mechanisms

    The two countries will establish:

    • Joint Working Group on Digitalization
    • Joint Task Force on 6G technology
    • Consular Dialogue mechanism
    • Greater connectivity between startup ecosystems

    Economic Cooperation

    • India and Finland aim to double bilateral trade by 2030.
    • The countries will co-host the World Circular Economy Forum in India.
    • Cooperation expected in sectors such as: Defence, Space, Semiconductors and Critical minerals

    Existing India–Finland Cooperation

    Examples highlighted during the meeting include:

    • Finnish company Nokia helping build telecom networks in India.
    • Finnish architectural collaboration in constructing the Chenab Railway Bridge.
    • Finland’s partnership in establishing the world’s largest bamboo-to-bioethanol refinery at Numaligarh in Assam.
    Consider the following countries: 1. Finland  2. Germany  3. Norway  4. Russia How many of the above countries have a border with the North Sea? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four

  • West Asia Conflict May Slow India’s Growth More Than Inflation

    Why in the News

    The ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States has pushed up oil prices and disrupted energy supplies. Analysts believe the situation may slow India’s economic growth, while the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to keep interest rates relatively low.

    Key Economic Developments

    • Oil prices have risen about 15% after the conflict began.
    • The Indian rupee has hit record lows and bond yields have risen.
    • Financial markets saw sell-offs in equity, debt and currency markets.
      • These developments have raised concerns about India’s current account deficit and growth outlook.

    Impact on India’s Economy

    • Slower Economic Growth: Disruption of natural gas supplies from the Middle East may affect sectors such as:
      • Fertilizers
      • Power generation
    • If disruptions last more than four weeks, growth could be affected for at least a quarter.
    • Oil Price Risk: If crude oil prices stay above $90–95 per barrel for several quarters,
      • India’s growth may slow from above 7% to around 6.5%.
    • Pressure on External Balance: Higher oil prices can:
      • Increase India’s import bill
      • Widen the current account deficit
      • Depreciate the rupee.

    Inflation Outlook

    • Despite higher oil prices, inflation risks remain moderate.
    • India’s retail inflation was 2.75% in January, near the lower end of RBI’s 2–6% tolerance band.
    • A 10–20% rise in global oil prices may increase inflation by 25–50 basis points.
      • Government actions such as holding retail fuel prices steady or reducing excise duties may cushion inflation.

    RBI’s Likely Policy Response

    • RBI had already cut the repo rate by 125 basis points in 2025.
    • Policymakers may prioritise supporting economic growth rather than raising rates immediately.
    • However, if oil prices cross $100 per barrel, central banks globally may adopt a more hawkish stance.
    [2023] Consider the following statements: Statement-I: In the post-pandemic recent past, many Central Banks worldwide had carried out interest rate hikes. Statement-II: Central Banks generally assume that they have the ability to counteract the rising consumer prices via monetary policy means. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect (d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

  • Iran War Impact: Rice Exports Disrupted and Fertilizer Prices Rising

    Why in the News

    Escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States has disrupted trade routes and raised global energy prices. This has affected India’s rice exports and increased fertilizer prices such as urea and DAP.

    Impact on India’s Rice Exports

    • Suspension of Shipments
      • Export of basmati rice to West Asia has been halted.
      • Ships carrying rice are stranded at ports or at sea.
    • Importance of West Asia for Basmati
      • India exports about 6 million tonnes of basmati rice annually.
      • 70–75% goes to West Asian markets.
      • About 1 million tonnes exported to Iran alone.
    • Major buyers include: Iran, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and UAE
      • Exports are usually highest between October and March.

    Rising Shipping and Logistics Costs

    • Ship fuel price jumped from $480 to $925 per barrel in a few days.
    • Container and bulk vessel availability reduced.
    • Exporters advised to avoid new CIF contracts and prefer FOB terms.
    • Basmati wholesale prices have already risen 10–15%.

    Fertilizer Prices Increasing

    Global energy price rise has pushed up fertilizer costs.

    • Urea
      • Could exceed $1000 per tonne if conflict continues.
      • Used extensively during India’s sowing season.
    • DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate)
      • Expected to rise from about $850 to $1000 per tonne (FOB).

    Why Fertilizer Prices Are Rising

    1. Energy cost linkage
      • Urea production depends heavily on natural gas and LNG.
    2. Supply concentration
      • Morocco holds about 70% of global phosphate reserves.
      • Canada and Belarus dominate potash production.
    3. War-related supply disruptions
      • Transport and insurance costs rising.

    Fertilizer Situation in India

    • Urea sales (Apr–Dec 2025): 31.16 million tonnes (up 3.8%).
    • Domestic production: 22.44 million tonnes (down 3%).
    • Imports: 8 million tonnes (up 85.3%).
    • India remains heavily dependent on fertilizer imports.
    [2019] Among the following, which one is the largest exporter of rice in the world in the last five years? (a) China  (b) India  (c) Myanmar  (d) Vietnam

  • [3rd February 2026] The Hindu OpED: Israel, the U.S and a war to build a unipolar West Asia

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2018] In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the national interest of India? How should India respond to this situation?

    Linkage: The question directly connects U.S.-Iran tensions to India’s energy security, strategic autonomy, and diaspora interests, which are central to the current West Asia escalation. The evolving conflict and risks to the Strait of Hormuz mirror the same geopolitical and economic vulnerabilities highlighted in the article on a shifting regional power order.

    Mentor’s Comment

    This article analyses the strategic logic behind the escalating Israel-Iran conflict and the deepening U.S. involvement in West Asia. It examines whether the unfolding war marks a structural shift from multipolar contestation to a potential U.S.-Israel dominated unipolar regional order.

    Why in the News?

    Israel and the United States have launched coordinated strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear and military leadership, triggering direct Iranian retaliation across the Gulf region. Iran has expanded the conflict by striking U.S. bases and threatening closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one-third of global oil supplies transit. The escalation signals a potential shift from limited confrontation to a broader attempt to restructure the regional balance of power in West Asia.

    Has the Conflict Shifted from Tactical Deterrence to Structural Power Reordering?

    1. Nature of Earlier Conflict: The June 2025 12-day confrontation remained geographically contained and ended through calibrated escalation and ceasefire diplomacy.
    2. Limited Strategic Objectives: Earlier strikes were primarily signalling tools aimed at restoring deterrence rather than dismantling state structures.
    3. Expansion of Theatre: The present escalation includes cross-Gulf strikes, targeting of leadership structures, and threats to global energy chokepoints.
    4. Leadership Targeting: Direct strikes on senior Iranian officials indicate attempts at systemic destabilisation rather than symbolic retaliation.
    5. Shift in Strategic Intent: The transition reflects movement from deterrence management to possible restructuring of regional hierarchy.

    Is the Conflict Aimed at Regime Change in Iran?

    1. Regime Change Objective: Israeli leadership has consistently viewed Iran as an existential threat due to its missile programme and support for regional militias.
    2. Strategic Continuity: Opposition to the 2015 nuclear deal reflected concern that lifting sanctions would strengthen Iran’s conventional and regional influence.
    3. Decapitation Strategy: Targeted killings of senior officials indicate attempts to destabilize leadership structures.
    4. Historical Precedent: Regime change attempts in Iraq (2003) and Libya (2011) reshaped power balances but produced long-term instability.

    Does Iran’s Geopolitical Structure Prevent External Domination?

    1. Geographic Depth: Iran’s mountainous terrain and large territorial size complicate ground invasion.
    2. Military Capability: Advanced missile and drone networks enable retaliation across the region. For example, Iran has used precision-guided missiles and Shahed-series drones to target U.S. bases in the Gulf and Israeli-linked assets, and previously demonstrated long-range strike capability in attacks on U.S. facilities such as the Al Asad airbase in Iraq (2020).
    3. Asymmetric Warfare: Iran relies on proxy networks including Hezbollah and allied militias.
    4. Resilience After Initial Strikes: Despite decapitation attempts, Iranian leadership reorganized and expanded retaliation.

    Would a Fall of Tehran Create a Unipolar West Asia?

    1. Balance of Power Shift: Removal of Iran eliminates the primary revisionist actor challenging U.S.-Israel dominance.
    2. Regional Realignment: Arab monarchies dependent on U.S. security architecture may align more firmly.
    3. Strategic Vacuum Risk: Collapse of central authority could mirror Iraq and Libya scenarios, creating prolonged instability.
    4. Geopolitical Motivation: The conflict reflects strategic interests rather than ideological liberation narratives.

    How Does the Conflict Threaten Global Energy Security?

    1. Strait of Hormuz: Nearly one-third of global oil trade passes through this chokepoint.
    2. Economic Shock Risk: Closure disrupts global energy markets and affects inflation worldwide.
    3. Cross-Gulf Escalation: Strikes on bases in Qatar, UAE and Cyprus widen the theatre of war.
    4. Global Economic Linkage: Energy price spikes directly affect developing economies including India.

    Does Conventional Superiority Guarantee Victory?

    1. Military Asymmetry: U.S.-Israel possess superior air and missile defense systems.
    2. Attrition Dynamics: Sustained conflict exhausts missile defense shields.
    3. Guerrilla Doctrine: Iran’s strategy aims to prolong conflict rather than secure quick victory.
    4. Strategic Uncertainty: Decisive victory depends on clearly defined objectives, not merely military power.

    Conclusion

    The ongoing Israel-U.S.-Iran confrontation reflects more than episodic retaliation; it signals a possible attempt to reshape the strategic architecture of West Asia. However, regime destabilisation does not automatically translate into stable unipolarity, as historical precedents in Iraq and Libya demonstrate. While military superiority may secure tactical gains, sustainable regional order depends on political legitimacy, institutional continuity, and balance-of-power equilibrium. The unfolding crisis therefore represents not merely a regional war, but a critical inflection point in determining whether West Asia moves toward hegemonic consolidation or prolonged instability with global economic repercussions.

  • India–Nepal MoU on Forests, Wildlife & Climate Cooperation

    Why in the News

    India and Nepal signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance bilateral cooperation in forests, wildlife, biodiversity conservation and climate change.

    Key Features of the MoU

    1. Areas of Cooperation

    • Forest management
    • Wildlife protection
    • Biodiversity conservation
    • Climate change mitigation and adaptation
    • Restoration of wildlife corridors
    • Exchange of technical expertise and best practices

    2. Focus on Transboundary Conservation

    Given shared ecosystems across the India–Nepal border, the MoU emphasises:

    • Landscape level biodiversity planning
    • Creation of transboundary conservation landscapes
    • Interlinking protected areas
    • Smart green infrastructure in biodiversity hotspots

    3. Key Species Identified

    • The agreement prioritises conservation of: Elephant, Gangetic dolphin, Rhinoceros, Snow leopard, Tiger, and Vultures
    • These species move across borders and require coordinated habitat protection.

    4. Combating Wildlife Crime

    • Joint action against forest and wildlife crime
    • Capacity building of frontline enforcement staff
    • Improved coordination between agencies

    Institutional Context

    • Signed between:
      • Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
      • Ministry of Forests and Environment, Nepal
    [2019] Consider the following statements: 

    1. Asiatic lion is naturally found in India only. 
    2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only. 
    3. One-horned rhinoceros is naturally found in India only. 

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

    (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • U.N. Nuclear Watchdog Holds Emergency Meet in Vienna

    Why in the News

    The International Atomic Energy Agency held an emergency meeting in Vienna on March 2 amid escalating conflict in West Asia following U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iran.

    About the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    • The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an autonomous UN organization focused on promoting peaceful nuclear technology use. Established in 1957 after U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower’s “Atoms for Peace” speech, it headquartered in Vienna, Austria, and works with over 170 member states

    What the IAEA Said

    • No indication that Iran’s nuclear installations were damaged.
    • No abnormal rise in radiation levels detected in the region.
    • Facilities mentioned include:
      • Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant
      • Tehran research reactor
      • Nuclear fuel cycle facilities
    • However, IAEA said it has faced communication blackout from Iranian authorities.
    • Director General Rafael Grossi issued the official statement.

    Iran’s Position

    • Iran’s ambassador to the IAEA claimed the Natanz uranium enrichment facility was targeted.
    • No public evidence provided so far.
    • Tehran has previously suspended cooperation with IAEA after foreign strikes.

    Iran may use alleged attacks to justify:

    • Restricting IAEA inspections.
    • Increasing uranium enrichment levels.
    • Framing actions as “self defense”.
    [2020] In India, why are some nuclear reactors kept under “IAEA Safeguards” while others are not? 

    (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

  • India’s Oil Imports from Russia Fall to 44 Month Low

    Why in the News

    India’s crude oil imports from Russia fell to a 44 month low in January 2026, while imports from Gulf countries and the United States increased. This shift comes amid West Asia conflict and rising global oil prices.

    Key Data Points

    • Russian oil imports in Jan 2026: 1.98 billion dollars.
    • Russia’s share: 19.3% of total imports.
    • Two months earlier: 27.5%.
    • May 2025: 33%.
    • Lowest Russian share since December 2022.

    Rising Share of Other Suppliers

    • Gulf Countries:
      • Iraq: 16.6%, 
      • Saudi Arabia: 17.5% highest since April 2023
      • UAE: 10.4%
      • Kuwait: 6.1%
    • United States: Share increased to 6.8% from 5% a year earlier.

    Why the Shift Happened

    • U.S. had linked tariff relief to reduction in Russian oil purchases.
    • U.S. President Donald Trump removed penal tariffs citing India’s commitment to reduce Russian imports.
    • Later, U.S. Supreme Court struck down the tariff mechanism.

    Why It May Become Costly

    1. Rising Oil Prices

    • West Asia conflict pushed crude above 80 dollars per barrel.
    • Every 1 dollar increase adds about 2 billion dollars to India’s annual import bill.

    2. Strait of Hormuz Risk

    • Strait of Hormuz is critical for Gulf oil supplies.
    • Closure or disruption threatens Iraqi, Saudi, UAE and Kuwaiti exports.

    3. Higher Freight Costs

    • U.S. oil travels longer distances.
    • Higher marine insurance and logistics costs during conflict.

    Strategic Implications

    • Energy security becomes more vulnerable.
    • Trade deficit pressure likely if prices stay elevated.
    • Rupee may face depreciation risk.
    • Inflationary impact on domestic economy.

    Prelims Pointers

    • India imports over 85% of its crude oil needs.
    • Strait of Hormuz connects Persian Gulf to Arabian Sea.
    • Oil price rise affects Current Account Deficit.
    • Diversification of suppliers is a key energy security strategy.
    [2020] The term ‘West Texas Intermediate’ sometimes found in news, refers to a grade of 

    (a) Crude oil 

    (b) Bullion 

    (c) Rare earth elements 

    (d) Uranium