Which major strategic partnership symbolized India’s growing ties with the United States in the post-Cold War era?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is c) Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008).

This agreement, also known as the 123 Agreement, is widely considered the defining "watershed moment" that transformed India-US relations from a state of "estranged democracies" to "strategic partners." It effectively ended India’s nuclear isolation and signaled a shift in US policy toward recognizing India as a global power.

Information Booster of the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement
The agreement was a multi-year process initiated by the Next Steps in Strategic Partnership (NSSP) and formally announced in 2005 by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and President George W. Bush. It was finalized in 2008.

Key Features and Significance:

Nuclear Exception: The US agreed to grant India a "unique exception." Even though India is not a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), the US allowed it to engage in civil nuclear trade with the rest of the world.

Separation Plan: India agreed to separate its civil and military nuclear facilities. It placed its civilian nuclear facilities under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards while keeping its military program autonomous.

NSG Waiver: The US successfully lobbied the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) to grant a waiver to India, allowing it to import nuclear fuel and technology from other countries like France and Russia.

Strategic Alignment: Beyond energy, the deal symbolized a deep trust between the two nations. It paved the way for India to be designated as a "Major Defense Partner" of the US and for cooperation in high-tech areas, space, and counter-terrorism.