1998 Pokhran-II Tests

The 1998 Pokhran-II tests were a series of five nuclear bomb tests conducted by India in May 1998 at the Pokhran test range in Rajasthan. This demonstrated India's nuclear capabilities and made it the sixth nuclear-armed nation. The tests were led by the Indian government under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and aimed to enhance national security amidst regional tensions. The tests were controversial, leading to international criticism and sanctions, but they solidified India's position as a strategic power in Asia. Following these tests, India declared itself a nuclear weapons state, shaping its military and diplomatic stance.