In the Indian context, what is the implication of ratifying the ‘Additional Protocol’ with the ‘International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)’?

Correct Answer: The civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards.

Explanation:

An ‘Additional Protocol’ is a voluntary legal instrument concluded between a State and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that complements the state's existing Safeguards Agreement with the IAEA.

In 2009, India signed an India-specific Safeguards Agreement and subsequently ratified the Additional Protocol with the IAEA, which came into force in July 2014. Under this agreement, India agreed to separate its nuclear facilities into civilian and military categories.

The key implication of ratifying the Additional Protocol is that India's designated civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards and inspections, while its military nuclear facilities remain strictly outside the scope of IAEA oversight.

Therefore, the correct statement is that civilian nuclear reactors come under IAEA safeguards.