Why is everyone talking about the 123 Act ? what is so important about nuclear energy ?

Question

And what is india's role as a nuclear power ? i welcome a detailed answer please.

Answer 1

The cornerstone of this new era in civilian nuclear co-operation is the 2007 agreement between indian and the U.S. called the ''123 Act''. once the u.s.congress allows and approves this act, it will allow the sale of u.s.nuclear technology and fuel to india.  However, the u.s. must also receive clearence from the 45 countries that comprises the nuclear suppliers group (NSG) for its exports to india.  

This is becoz, india is not a signatory to the internation agreement to prevent the spread of dangerous nuclear material, namely the nuclear non-proliferation treaty (NPT).  once the NSG exempts the u.s. from this rule, other countries will also demand similar concessions for exports to india.

in this context, the new agreement would pave the way for large imports of uranium, the fissile fuel necessary to operate reactors, to produce nuclear power.

Under the 123 act, india will be obliged to separate its civilian and military nuclear facilities.  it will accordingly permit inspection of its existing 14 civil nuclear reactors by the IAEA while remaining will be outside such jurisdiction.  There is concern among some critics of the treaty that such inspections will curtail the autonomy of our strategic proggreamme.  Following the agreement, india is expected to install a large number of nuclear reactors across the country.

if the country has to sustain an economic growth rate of 8% for a quarter of a century as projected the planning commission, it will have to address its growing energy demands.  At present coal accounts for 55 %  and hydel power 20% of the country's total commercial energy needs.  But, this is not enough for the future.

we are having confidence from other nations.