Correct option is B
The Henry J. Hyde Act is related to the India-USA civil nuclear deal. Passed by the United States Congress in 2006, this legislation provided the legal framework for nuclear cooperation between the United States and India. It allowed India access to civilian nuclear technology and fuel from the U.S., despite not being a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Explanation of the Act:
1. Named after U.S. Congressman Henry J. Hyde, the Act enables the U.S. to engage in nuclear trade with India under specific safeguards.
2. India committed to separating its civilian and military nuclear facilities and placing the civilian facilities under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards.
3. The agreement was part of a broader strategy to strengthen U.S.-India ties, emphasizing strategic, economic, and technological cooperation.
Information Booster:
1. Significance for India:
· Strengthened energy security by providing access to nuclear fuel and technology.
· Reinforced India's global status by recognizing its nuclear capabilities without being an NPT member.
2. Significance for the U.S.:
· Cemented strategic ties with India as a counterbalance to China.
· Expanded the U.S. nuclear technology market.
3. Criticism of the Act:
· Critics argued that it undermined global non-proliferation norms.
· Concerns were raised about India’s use of the deal to bolster its nuclear arsenal indirectly.