India’s Nuclear Program

India's nuclear program began in the 1940s and officially became known for its first successful nuclear test in 1974, dubbed "Smiling Buddha." The program aims for peaceful use of nuclear energy and national defense. India developed nuclear weapons primarily as a deterrent in a region with historical tensions, notably with Pakistan and China. Following a series of tests in 1998, India declared itself a nuclear-armed state. The country maintains a no-first-use policy, committing to use its nuclear arsenal only in retaliation. India is also a signatory to international nuclear treaties, promoting responsible nuclear governance.