SSB interview is composed of various tests. Being aware of the current issues and activities going on in the national and global arena, should be a priority of all aspirant. Measuring the need of current events, MTCR is one of the sensitive issues, going around in the media. All SSB aspirants must stay aware of this issue and respective aspects related to it.
What is MTCR?
The Missile Technology Control Regime is an informal group of some countries, which aims at supporting non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. It was established in 1987 by superpowers (US, UK, France, Canada, Japan, Germany and Italy). The aim behind its birth was to control the escalated proliferation of weapons of mass destruction i.e. ballistic missiles and other unnamed delivery systems, which can be used in biological, chemical and nuclear attacks in future.
MTCR Members
During the initial days of its establishment, it had 7 members. But now, the count has reached up to 34 and some more nations are expected to join the group possibly in the recent future, including India. The member nations conduct meets every year and the last one was conducted in 2015 in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
What is its Objective?
The objective of this group is to restrict the proliferation of ballistic missiles, UAVs, complete rocket system and other related technology with a payload of 500 kgs and range beyond 300kms.
Reason behind Italy’s Opposition to India’s Membership
Last year, Italy opposed India’s step to get the membership of the MTCR. Related Reason behind this act was to protest against India for arresting two naval marines of Italy for shooting Indian fisherman. The marines were arrested in 2012, when they shot fishermen while guarding an Italian Cargo Ship. But U.S. had given its support to India to make its way in to the MTCR.
Recent Update in India’s Favor
According to media reports, India will join the group this week. The step will influence the sale of U.S.’s predator drones to India and many other arm sales to India, cementing national security and defense. The news came after Indian PM Narendra Modi began his visit to some nation, including U.S., on the invitation of U.S. President, Barak Obama. India had applied for its membership last year. But strong opposition of some of the members of the MTCR is a hurdle for India and the discussion is based on the consensus. US has given its support to Indian in MTCR, Australia Group, Nuclear Suppliers Group and the Wassenaar Arrangement.
Conclusion – The introduction of India in this elite group will further expand India’s tentacle to grab more arms deal and browse more suitable weapons and technology. India is further eying to get its seat reserved in other international groups like SCO, NSG (nuclear supplier group) etc. India’s entry in the NSG group was opposed by china for not signing Non-Proliferation Treaty. The future ahead is showing beam of the dawn of a new and enhanced status of India on international forum.
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