He is basically an imminent economist and in 1-2-3 deal there is also a sound economic rationale.
India's fast breeder reactor is in the cutting edge of nuclear technology. It is based on thorium. The problem is that this technology is still in its developmental stage. In 10 years time, we could emerge as a major nuclear supplier. For this we need NSG membership.
So the 1-2-3 deal is a foundation to getting a seat in the NSG. During the interim we put obsolete nuclear plants under IAEA inspection. In return we get imported uranium that enables us to up capacity utilization from current 50% levels. We preserve our scarce uranium reserves to be used at a time where the world experiences a severe energy crunch.
This is a visionary decision. ManMohan Singh should go ahead. The Left has no vision except protect China's interest. The BJP has no vision except return to power.
1. The agreement clearly limits its application to civilian nuclear facilities and excludes military nuclear facilities. It includes only civilian facilities, designated as so by GoI at the time of signing of the agreement and do not cover future civilian facilities. 2. In the event of the agreement proving unfavorable to India, we can opt out by terminating this Agreement by giving just one year's written notice to the US.
3. There is even an over-riding provision for the Hyde Act in the 1-2-3 agreement: At a time of our choosing, we can pass a law to specifically negate it.
