Who categorized India as "a responsible state with advanced nuclear technology"?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) President George W. Bush. President George W. Bush referred to India as "a responsible state with advanced nuclear technology" in the context of the US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement, which was signed in 2005 and operationalized in 2008. This statement was part of the efforts to recognize India's responsible track record in handling nuclear technology, despite being a non-signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). The agreement facilitated civil nuclear cooperation between the two countries and allowed India access to nuclear technology and fuel for civilian purposes.
Explanation of Options:
1. (a) President George W. Bush: Correct. During his presidency, George W. Bush played a pivotal role in bringing India into the global nuclear fold through the US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement. This categorization by Bush marked a significant departure from the earlier US stance on India’s nuclear program, recognizing India as a responsible nuclear state.
2. (b) President Bill Clinton: Incorrect. Although Bill Clinton visited India in 2000 and initiated a new phase of diplomatic engagement, he did not categorize India as "a responsible state with advanced nuclear technology." His administration was more focused on non-proliferation concerns after India's nuclear tests in 1998.
3. (c) President Jimmy Carter: Incorrect. President Jimmy Carter's tenure (1977-1981) was characterized by concerns about nuclear proliferation. He did not categorize India in this way and was in fact critical of India's nuclear program.
4. (d) President Barack Obama: Incorrect. While President Obama continued to build on the foundation laid by the Bush administration, furthering civil nuclear cooperation with India, he did not make this specific categorization.