Why the NSG spot is so important to India in a simple explanation

India is fast-pacing its efforts for entry into the elite Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and is making all diplomatic efforts to gain the membership in the 48-member nuclear group.

India’s blitzkrieg efforts for NSG come in the backdrop that the country wants to expand its nuclear power generation and also enter the export market.

New Delhi has been pushing for NSG membership since 2008 and there has been increasing appreciation for Indian nuclear controls and capabilities since then.

The country becomes more hopeful of entry into the nuclear club as it gained membership in Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s US visit.

However, India’s NSG efforts have been stonewalled by China, which has raised objection on India’s membership, saying even Pakistan should be given entry.

In all its efforts to coax China, the two-day plenary session of the NSG in Seoul becomes important where Modi will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.

As Modi is bidding high for India’s entry, here’s what you should know about NSG

What is NSG?
NSG is a 48-nation grouping, which controls nuclear related exports, was formed in 1974 to prevent nuclear proliferation by controlling the export of materials, equipment and technology that can be used to manufacture nuclear weapons.

Ironically, it was formed to counter Indian nuclear tests.

Who all are backing India?
During Modi’s recent US visit, President Barack Obama backed India’s bid for NSG and also urged other countries to back India.

Presently, 34 nations support India’s application. However, China, Turkey, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa and Austria are opposing India’s stand.

China is leading the opposition, arguing that India has not signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and that even Pakistan was eligible for NSG entry. China says if India is admitted, it will shake up the nuclear-arms balance in South Asia as India will engage in a massive nuclear weaponisation programme.

The Dragon stated that India's membership will 'jeopardise' China's national interests and touch a 'raw nerve' in Pakistan.

But why is NSG so important for India?

India’s entry into NSG is important due to following factors:
1. India wants to become a player in this international arena where nuclear commerce norms are laid. It will also get access to technology for a range of uses from medicine to building nuclear power plants for India.
2. If India wins the bid, it will have access to international market for export as well as for import of nuclear related materials. India can also commercialize the production of nuclear power equipment, which will boost innovation and high tech manufacturing in India-a fillip to ‘Make in India’
3. India needs NSG membership to build nuclear reactors, provide clean energy.
4. If India gets the membership, it can block Pakistan entry by consensus, which is why China is against New Delhi.