ABSTRACT
This chapter argues the need to distinguish between the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the issues of both non-proliferation and nuclear proliferation. The NPT system continues to live and grow, and is not compromised until another state acquires usable nuclear arms. The practice of nuclear ambiguity by Israel, India, Pakistan, South Africa and Argentina severely erodes the NPT regime. Nuclearisation of regional conflict zones in contemporary world politics already has compromised the NPT system. India’s position on the NPT is independent of its China policy, its Pakistan policy and its nuclear policy. It is independent of the NPT policies of parties and non-parties of the NPT. The motivations influencing nuclear activities and behaviour on the subcontinent can be distinguished among those concerning attitudes and policies regarding the NPT/ International Atomic Energy Agency regime; those concerning attitudes and policies regarding respective nuclear options; and finally, those which may account for the quest for nuclear arms.
