THE CHALLENGE OF NUCLEAR TERROR

The study explores the nuances of the global nuclear discourse in the light of the emergence of non-state actors with an expressed interest in WMD terrorism. This is warranted because we now seem tobe moving from a phase of security by nuclear weapons to security of nuclear weapons, material and technologies. In fact, today the quantum of effort and resources required to keep the nuclear weapons safe and secure is much more than that of the security they provide. The book looks into the details of the phenomenon of nuclear terrorism. It assesses the probability, consequences and preparedness of the world to deal with such a situation. In the process, it reexamines the conventional arguments of deterrence theory and proposes a neo-deterrence framework. The study also considers the probability of a nuclear terror incident in India, and New Delhi's preparedness to deal with such an incident. Taking a close look at the motives and capabilities of terrorists operating in the subcontinent or outside to undertake an act of nuclear terror, the book examines the security arrangements already in place. It looks into the physical and the in-built safety structures of Indian nuclear facilities as well as the legal procedures in place to handle such an eventuality. While highlighting that several security arrangements are already in place at the Indian nuclear infrastructure, the study recommends some additional measures to strengthen these efforts in order to effectively meet the challenge of nuclear terror.

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