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This annotated chronology is based on the data sources that follow each entry. Public sources often provide conflicting information on classified military programs. In some cases we are unable to resolve these discrepancies, in others we have deliberately refrained from doing so to highlight the potential influence of false or misleading information as it appeared over time. In many cases, we are unable to independently verify claims. Hence in reviewing this chronology, readers should take into account the credibility of the sources employed here.
Inclusion in this chronology does not necessarily indicate that a particular development is of direct or indirect proliferation significance. Some entries provide international or domestic context for technological development and national policymaking. Moreover, some entries may refer to developments with positive consequences for nonproliferation.
January 2001
The US Department of Defense reports that India has many qualified scientists, numerous biological and pharmaceutical production facilities, and biocontainment facilities suitable for research and development of dangerous pathogens. The report also states that at least some of these facilities are being used to support research and development for biological warfare (BW) defense work.
—Anthony Cordesman, Weapons of Mass Destruction in the Middle East, 27 December 2001, p. 31.
18-19 January 2001
In an inaugural address to a two-day seminar on nuclear, biological, and chemical defense in Lonavala, Indian Vice-Admiral Harinder Singh calls for "urgent steps to meet the asymmetric threats in the form of chemical and biological weapons emerging from the low-intensity proxy wars." Another speaker, Indian Vice-Admiral A.S. Krishnan, states that chemical and biological weapons appear to be gaining a slow but steady foothold as potential devices for use against military and civilian groups. In addition, Krishnan states that a Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) defense doctrine has been drafted, and the creation of a joint services institute for NBC warfare has been proposed at the College of Military Engineering in Pune.
—Chemical Weapons Convention Bulletin: News, Background, and Comment on Chemical and Biological Warfare Issues, March 2001, Issue Number 51, p. 44; Lonavia V. Radhika, "Armed Forces to Formulate Defense Against Nuclear Attacks," Indiainfo.com, 19 January 2001, <http://news.indiainfo.com>.
February 2001
The Indian Government decides to constitute a task force to study the opportunities and potential investments of biotechnology.
—Anders Axelsson, et al., "Indian and Pakistani Weapons of Mass Destruction in a Security Policy Context: A Comprehensive Analysis of Capabilities, Objectives, and Consequences," Swedish Defense Research Agency, March 2002.
February 2001
India and Germany sign an agreement to work together in developing new drugs and vaccines. The agreement covers research in the fields of genomics and proteomics, tissue and cell culture, bioinformatics, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and tuberculosis research.
—Anders Axelsson, et al., "Indian and Pakistani Weapons of Mass Destruction in a Security Policy Context: A Comprehensive Analysis of Capabilities, Objectives, and Consequences," Swedish Defense Research Agency, March 2002.
17 March 2001
Retired Pakistani Lieutenant General Khalid Latif Moghat states that India's large nuclear, chemical, and biological programs are proof of India's future strategic plans and goals.
—"Article Urges Pakistan to Remain Prepared to Check India's Aggressive Designs," Dawn in English, 17 March 2001, Available from FBIS, document identification number SAP20010317000055.
4 April 2001
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), in conjunction with the DRDO, organizes a conference of Indian pharmaceutical and biotech firms. The conference is set up to discuss the implications of the proposed verification measures of the BWC.
—"Indian Firms Face Patent Threat From BTWC Norm (Pharma And Biotech Firms to Declare Information on Research, Manufacturing, Discovery of Drugs," India Business Insight, 7 March 2001.
7 April 2001
Rakesh Sood, India's permanent representative to the Conference of Disarmament, tells the Times of India that even though there is no immediate threat to patented information, India's biotech industry should prepare safeguard measures for its industry for the negotiations of the BWC.
—"Firms Need to Make Safeguard Steps as Bio Forum Charts Verify," Times of India, 7 April 2001.
10 April 2001
In meetings between External Affairs and Defense Minister Jaswant Singh and visiting US officials, India states that it believes that chemical and biological weapons present a greater danger than nuclear weapons. India believes that these weapons are more dangerous because of the ease with which they can be procured by international terrorist groups.
—Chemical Weapons Convention Bulletin: News, Background, and Comment on Chemical and Biological Warfare Issues, June 2001, Issue Number 52, p. 53.
5-10 May 2001
India conducts "Operation Complete Victory" in the Pokharen desert. The exercise involves military maneuvers and for the first time incorporates chemical, nuclear, and biological weapons into the exercises. The exercise also tests new equipment such as protective gear, decontamination routines, and electronic warfare systems for battle in a contaminated area.
—Chemical Weapons Convention Bulletin: News, Background, and Comment on Chemical and Biological Warfare Issues, September 2001, Issue Number 53, p. 26; Anders Axelsson, et al., "Indian and Pakistani Weapons of Mass Destruction in a Security Policy Context: A Comprehensive Analysis of Capabilities, Objectives, and Consequences," Swedish Defense Research Agency, March 2002.
11 May 2001
The Bangalore-based Biocon India is awarded the 2001 Biotechnology Product and Process Development and Commercialization Award by the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry Science and Technology for its invention of a solid matrix bioreactor.
—"India: Recognition For Biocon's Technology," The Hindu, 15 May 2001.
12 May 2001
India concludes "Operation Complete Victory" in the Pokharen desert.
—"India's 'War Hysteria' Threatens Regional Peace," Khabrain in Urdu, 12 May 2001, available from FBIS, document identification number SAP20010515000028.
July 2001
At the Indo-Russian Joint Council for ILTP in Moscow, India and Russia both identify 146 new joint research and development projects. These projects will cover such fields as biotechnology, immunology, biomedical sciences, and chemical sciences.
—Anders Axelsson, et al., "Indian and Pakistani Weapons of Mass Destruction in a Security Policy Context: A Comprehensive Analysis of Capabilities, Objectives, and Consequences," Swedish Defense Research Agency, March 2002.
23 September 2001
Dr. K.K. Datta, Director of the National Institute of Communicable Diseases, states that the Institute does not have the structure in place to prevent and detect incidents of bioterrorism. Datta adds that the Institute is trying to develop such a capability.
—"India Gearing up to Face Threat of Biological Weapons," Times of India Online, 23 September 2001, <http://www.timesofindia.com>.
25 September 2001
Union health minister C.P. Thakur states that while India's national laboratories are able to detect any lethal virus that may be deliberately unleashed, India does not have a smallpox vaccine stock available.
—"WHO Cautions against Bio-Weapons Strike," Times of India Online, 25 September 2001, <http://www.timesofindia.com>.
October 2001
A National Disaster Management Agency is set up in the Home Ministry to deal with all types of disasters, including weapons of mass destruction (WMD).
—Sujata Dutta Sachdeva, "Sarin to Smallpox: Can we Handle Bio-Terrorism?" Times of India, 6 October 2001.
October 2001
The Defense Research & Development Establishment conducts a four-day anti-BW training course for Indian senior police officers, doctors, and administrators.
—Pallava Bagla, "Little-Known Lab, India's Germ-Buster," LeadIndia, 25 October 2001, <http://www.leadindia.org>.
October 2001
The Indian Council of Medical Research states that it is ready to launch a vaccine for anthrax. The council states that it is awaiting government approval.
—Ellen Beck, "India Media Get Suspicious Letter," United Press International, 22 October 2001.
October 2001
India's Health Minister C.P. Thakur holds a meeting with health officials to discuss and create a plan to deal with a biological attack. Different measures were devised during the meeting, such as arrangements for extra beds in leading hospitals and storage of preventive medicines. The Federal Health ministry is also tasked with dealing with BW, and the National Institute of Virology in Pune is to be upgraded.
—"Health Ministry Taking Steps Against Germ Warfare," Press Trust of India, 7 October 2001, Nationwide International News
October 2001
According to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases, India is not stockpiling smallpox vaccine.
—Nilanjana Bhaduri Jha, "Can we Handle Bio-Terrorism?," Times of India, 10 October 2001.
October 2001
A 12-year-old girl and her cousin in Tulasipur fall unconscious after sniffing white powder in an envelope. The envelope is addressed to one of the girl's father, Madan Sahu, and was sent by his nephew undergoing military training in Ahmednagar, India. The substance is sent for testing, with results not being reported.
—"India: Postal Sorters to be Given Protective Gear Against Anthrax," The Hindu, 21 October 2001; "Sorters at Foreign Post Offices to be Given Masks, Gloves," Press Trust of India, 21 October 2001, Nationwide International News, "White Powder Causes Anthrax Fear in Orissa Village," Indiainfo.com, 20 October 2001, <http://news.indiainfo.com>.
October 2001
VP Saxena, Vice-Chancellor of Jiwaji University in Gwalior receives a letter containing a suspicious powder. Tests at the DRDO reveal that it is chalk powder.
—Preeti Mehra, "India: Anthrax Scare Has Everyone on Their Toes," Business Line, 20 October 2001; "More Suspicious Letters in Delhi, Anthrax Scare Grips MP," The Statesman, 21 October 2001; "India: Anthrax Scare Has Everyone on Their Toes," Business Line, 20 October 2001.
October 2001
A postal employee is rushed to the hospital after coming into contact with a suspicious white powder while sorting mail at the Main Post Office in Baharampur, India. The woman complains of pruritis and rash formation. The substance is taken by authorities for testing. Results of the tests are not reported.
—"Anthrax Jitters on North Block," Press Trust of India, 23 October 2001; "Powder Paranoia Hits The World," Indian Express, 24 October 2001, <http://www.indianexpress.com>.
October 2001
The Madras Atomic Power Station in Kalpakam receives a letter containing white powder. Tests on the substance reveal that it does not contain Bacillus anthracis spores.
—"Anthrax Scare Grounds A-I Aircraft in Paris," Times of India, 24 October 2001; "Panic Across India as Packets With White Powder Continue to Land at Post Offices," Indian Express in English, 21 October 2001, available from FBIS, document identification number SAP20011021000027.
October 2001
In Vijayawada, seven goldsmiths receive "covers" (envelopes) containing a white powder. Authorities state that "Anthrax-Chavuku Sidamkandi" ("be prepared for death from anthrax") is scrawled in Tengu on the cover. The substance is sent for testing, which reveals that it does not contain B. anthracis spores.
—"India: Postal Sorters to be Given Protective Gear Against Anthrax," The Hindu, 21 October 2001; "India: Anthrax Scare in Hyderabad, Vijayawada," The Hindu, 20 October 2001.
October 2001
The police chief at a university in Gwalior, India, receives a letter containing suspicious powder. Tests at DRDO reveal that it is chalk powder.
—Preeti Mehra, "India: Anthrax Scare Has Everyone on Their Toes," Business Line, 20 October 2001; "India Taking All Steps to Check Germ Warfare Threats: Advani," Press Trust of India, 19 October 2001, Nationwide International News; "India: Anthrax Scare Has Everyone on Their Toes," Business Line, 20 October 2001.
October 2001
A senior police official in Barabanki receives an envelope containing a suspicious white powder. The substance is sent for tests, with results not being reported.
—"India: Postal Sorters to be Given Protective Gear Against Anthrax," The Hindu, 21 October 2001; "Indian Postal Employees to be Given Gloves And Masks to Combat anthrax," Agence France Presse, 20 October 2001.
October 2001
The office of Sriram Tripathi, a senior police official in Barabanki receives an envelope containing a suspicious white powder. The substance is sent to New Delhi for tests. Results of the tests are not reported
—"India: Postal Sorters to be Given Protective Gear Against Anthrax," The Hindu, 21 October 2001; "Indian Postal Employees to be Given Gloves And Masks to Combat Anthrax," Agence France Presse, 20 October 2001.
6 October 2001
Colonel Balram Sahukar states that the Indian "military is quite capable of handling any WMD attack."
—Sujata Dutta Sachdeva, "Sarin to Smallpox: Can we Handle Bio-Terrorism?" Times of India, 6 October 2001.
11 October 2001
A gynecologist receives a letter suspected of containing anthrax at the Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in New Delhi. The letter is forwarded to authorities for tests, which reveals that the letter does not contain B. anthracis spores.
—Preeti Mehra, "India: Anthrax Scare Has Everyone on Their Toes," Business Line, 20 October 2001; "Anthrax Phobia Grips Delhi," The Statesman, 19 October 2001; "Anthrax Panic at Apollo Hospital," Times of India, 19 October 2001.
15 October 2001
A postal cover containing a powder-like substance is discovered in Vizhickathode. The substance is sent for tests. Results are not reported.
—"Anthrax Panic," The Hindu, 16 October 2001.
15 October 2001
Top Indian defense scientists state that India is prepared to tackle the fallout from a chemical or biological attack.
—"India: Rapid Response Teams From Chemical, Biological Warfare," The Hindu, 16 October 2001.
15 October 2001
The Indian government cautions people to be on high alert for the possibility of chemical or biological attacks. Officials state that the DRDO and the Defense Ministry are preparing "rapid response teams" to respond to the threat. It is the first time that India's top scientists have outlined the terrorist threat involving these weapons
—"People Told to be Alert Against Biological Terrorism Threat," Press Trust of India, 15 October 2001.
15 October 2001
According to defense scientists, India is racing to train medical staff on response measures to a chemical or biological attack. These officials state that the DRDO, the NICD, and the Union Home Ministry are heading the program to train these individuals, and that the DRDE will serve as a training ground.
16 October 2001
Union Health Minister C.P. Thaku and other health officials discuss the possibility of bioterrorism as the cause of the 1994 plague outbreak in Surat and the 2001 outbreak of unidentified encephalitis in Siliguri.
—"India: Rapid Response Teams From Chemical, Biological Warfare," The Hindu (16 October 2001).
18 October 2001
An employee at the Indian Air Force base in Tambaram, India, receives a letter containing a suspicious white powder. The letter has been postmarked in the Besant Nagar area of Tambaram. Tests on the substance reveal that it does not contain B. anthracis spores.
—"IAF Station Gets Second Powder-Laced Letter," indiainfo.com, 24 October 2001, <http://news.indiainfo.com>; "Panic Across India as Packets With White Powder Continue to Land at Post Offices," Indian Express in English, 21 October 2001, available from FBIS, document identification number SAP20011021000027; "Anthrax Scare at Kalpakkam," Kalpakkam.com, October 2001, <http://www.kapakkam.com>.
18 October 2001
Professor Atul Sarma at the Indian Statistical Institute in New Delhi receives an envelope suspected of containing spores of B. anthracis. The envelope has the names of world leaders such as George Bush and Tony Blair written on it. Sarma becomes suspicious and notifies authorities because the envelope has been sent from an unknown person linked with a Singapore-based newspaper and also has an unclear postal stamp. Investigation results are not reported.
—Preeti Mehra, "India: Anthrax Scare Has Everyone on Their Toes," Business Line, 20 October 2001; "Anthrax Scare in Delhi Institute," Times of India, 19 October 2001; "2 Report Mail, Anthrax Scare Spreads," Times of India, 19 October 2001.
19 October 2001
Three postal covers (envelopes) suspected of containing B. anthracis spores are discovered in Hyderabad. The covers are sent to the Veterinary Biological Research Institute for tests. Results are not reported.
—"Suspected Anthrax Letters Hit Hyderabad," tehelka.com, 20 October 2001, <http://www.tehelka.com>.
19 October 2001
An envelope containing a suspicious white powder is delivered to the World Missionaries of Evangelists of India in Hyderabad. The envelope is addressed to the mission's president, Issac J. Kommanapalli. The substance is sent to the Veterinary Biological Research Institute for tests. Results are not reported.
—"India: Anthrax Scare in Hyderabad, Vijayawada," The Hindu, 20 October 2001.
19 October 2001
An envelope containing a suspicious white powder is found at the General Post Office in Hyderabad. The substance is sent to the Veterinary Biological Research Institute for tests. Results are not reported.
—"India: Anthrax Scare in Hyderabad, Vijayawada," The Hindu, 20 October 2001.
19 October 2001
Union Health Minister C.P. Thakur states that all Indian hospitals have been put on high alert for suspected anthrax cases. Thakur states that the National Institute of Communicable Diseases is the nodal agency for testing and responding to such a case. The National Institute of Virology in Pune is also to be used for advanced tests.
—"Hospitals Put on High Alert For Anthrax," Times of India, 20 October 2001.
19 October 2001
Dr. S.C. Pasha, the head of biology at the National Institute of Communicable Diseases, states that the Institute is the center for anthrax tests.
—"NICD Examining Examples," Times of India, 19 October 2001.
19 October 2001
Directors and deputy directors of the State Veterinary department are directed to store the anthrax vaccine liquid in adequate quantities.
—"Preventive Steps in M.P. Against Anthrax," The Hindu, 19 October 2001.
19 October 2001
A letter suspected of containing B. anthracis spores is received at the UNICEF office in New Delhi, India. Employees at the office notify authorities after becoming suspicious because of the handwriting on the envelope. The letter is immediately sent for tests which reveal that the letter does not contain B. anthracis spores.
—"No Harmful Substance Found in Letters to UNICEF, NCM Offices," Press Trust of India, 23 October 2001; "Anthrax Phobia Grips Delhi," The Statesman, 19 October 2001.
20 October 2001
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu agrees to set up a technical committee consisting of officials from the public health and forensic science departments of the Veterinary Biological Research Institute, Institute of Preventive Medicine, and Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology. The committee is established to counsel Naidu on anthrax issues.
—K. Rama Rayalu, "CM to Clamp Down on Powder Mail," Times of India, 22 October 2001.
20 October 2001
Hyderabad city police commissioner P. Ramulu states that the Biological Veterinary Research Institute does not have masks to protect its workers from powder that may contain spores of B. anthracis.
—"Govt Unprepared for Anthrax Threat," Times of India, 22 October 2001.
20 October 2001
The state government in Andhra Pradesh forms a seven-member technical committee to handle cases of suspected anthrax letters.
—"Andhra Sets up Committee to Handle Anthrax Related Case," Press Trust of India, 21 October 2001.
20 October 2001
The CNN office in Srinagar receives a letter containing a suspicious white powder. The letter is addressed from CNN's bureau office in New Delhi. The substance is sent to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases for testing, which reveals that it does not contain B. anthracis spores.
—"US Media Units in India Get 'Suspicious' Letters," Indiainfo.com, 22 October 2001, <http://news.indiainfo.com>; Ed Johnson, "Global Anthrax Fears Grow as Second Case Confirmed Outside United States," Associated Press, 20 October 2001, International News; Hans Greimel, "World Goes on Anthrax Alert as Hoaxes, Jitters Spread," Associated Press, 22 October 2001, International News; Ellen Beck, "India Media Get Suspicious Letter," United Press International, 22 October 2001.
20 October 2001
Associated Press office in Srinagar receives a letter containing a white powder. The letter is addressed from the AP's office bureau in New Delhi. The letter contains a note that states "It is a gift for all those who work for America and support America." The substance is sent to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases for testing, which reveals that it does not contain B. anthracis spores.
—Hans Greimel, "World Goes on Anthrax Alert as Hoaxes, Jitters Spread," Associated Press, 22 October 2001; "US Media Units in India Get 'Suspicious' Letters," Indiainfo.com, 22 October 2001, <http://news.indiainfo.com>; Ed Johnson, "Global Anthrax Fears Grow as Second Case Confirmed Outside United States," Associated Press, 20 October 2001; Ellen Beck, "India Media Get Suspicious Letter," United Press International, 22 October 2001.
20 October 2001
The office of the Himalayan Mail newspaper in Srinagar receives an envelope containing a suspicious white powder. The substance is sent to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases for testing, which reveals that it does not contain B. anthracis spores.
—"US Media Units in India Get 'Suspicious' Letters," Indiainfo.com, 22 October 2001, <http://news.indiainfo.com>; Ed Johnson, "Global Anthrax Fears Grow as Second Case Confirmed Outside United States," Associated Press, 20 October 2001, International News; Hans Greimel, "World Goes on Anthrax Alert as Hoaxes, Jitters Spread," Associated Press, 22 October 2001, International News; Ellen Beck, "India Media Get Suspicious Letter," United Press International, 22 October 2001.
20 October 2001
The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) in New Delhi receives an envelope suspected of containing anthrax. The letter is sent for tests, which reveal that it does not contain B. anthracis spores.
—"No Harmful Substance Found in Letters to UNICEF, NCM Offices," Press Trust of India, 23 October 2001, Nationwide International News; "Powder Paranoia Hits The World," Indian Express, 24 October 2001, <http://www.indianexpress.com>.
21 October 2001
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that India has the capability to test for anthrax. The WHO identifies the National Institute of Communicable Diseases in New Delhi, a laboratory in Meerut, and a laboratory in Izzatnagar as three qualified laboratories.
—"No Need to Panic Over Anthrax: WHO," Press Trust of India, 21 October 2001, Nationwide International News.
21 October 2001
An envelope containing 25 grams of white powder is discovered in a post office box in Kasimnagar. The substance is sent for testing, with results not being reported.
—"Govt to Set up Labs as Anthrax Fear Spreads," The Economic Times, 21 October 2001; "India: Postal Sorters to be Given Protective Gear Against Anthrax," The Hindu, 21 October 2001.
22 October 2001
The National Institute of Communicable Diseases releases guideline of precautions and treatments for anthrax.
—"NICD Guidelines on Anthrax Treatment," Times of India, 22 October 2001.
22 October 2001
Federal Health Minister C.P. Thakur states that India needs to be prepared to handle smallpox. He states that a workshop on preparedness will be held October 29, 2001.
—"We Should be on Alert to Handle Smallpox: Thakur," Press Trust of India, 22 October 2001, Nationwide International News.
23 October 2001
PKB Chakraborty, police commissioner in Nagpur, receives an envelope containing a suspicious white powder. The substance is sent to the Haffkine Institute for testing. Results are not reported.
—"Anthrax Jitters in North Block," Press Trust of India, 23 October 2001, Nationwide International News; "Anthrax Scare Hits Home," The Statesman, 24 October 2001; "Anthrax Scare Hits Nagpur City," Times of India, 24 October 2001.
23 October 2001
Employees at the General Post Office in Ranchi discover two envelopes that contain a suspicious powder. One envelope is addressed to a person in New York, while the other is addressed to the chairman of the company IIT-JEE. Both envelopes are written in identical writing. Tests on the substance reveal that it is not B. anthracis, but possibly a detergent.
—"Anthrax Jitters in North Block," Press Trust of India, 23 October 2001, Nationwide International News; "Anthrax Scare in Jharkkand, Bihar Towns," Times of India, 27 October 2001; "Envelopes Contain Detergent Powder," Press Trust of India, 26 October 2001, Nationwide International News.
23 October 2001
The residence of Uttaranchal Chief Minster Nityanand Swami in Dehra Dun receives an envelope containing a white powder. The envelope has "Laden" written on it in Urdu. The substance is taken by authorities for tests. Results of these tests are not reported.
—"Anthrax Scare at Uttaranchal CM's Residence," Rediff.com, 24 October 2001, <http://www.rediff.com>; "India: Mail With 'Suspicious Powder' Reaches Offices of Advani, High Places," The Economic Times, 26 October 2001, available from FBIS, document identification number SAP20011026000063.
23 October 2001
The office of A.R. Nanda, a senior bureaucrat in India's Family Welfare Ministry in New Delhi, receives a letter containing a suspicious powder. The substance is sent to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases for tests. Results of the tests are not reported.
—"Anthrax Scare Spreads to Indian Home Ministry," Agence France Presse, 23 October 2002, International News; "FW Secy Gets "Suspicious Mail," Press Trust of India, 23 October 2001, Nationwide International News.
23 October 2001
A letter containing a suspicious white powder is sent to the commanding officer stationed at the Air Force Station in Tambaram, India. The letter was reportedly mailed from another district within the city. The substance is sent for tests, with results not being reported.
—"IAF Station Gets Second Powder-Laced Letter," Indiainfo.com, 24 October 2001, <http://news.indiainfo.com>; "India: Mail With 'Suspicious Powder' Reaches Office of Advani, High Places," The Economic Times in English, 26 October 2001, available from FBIS, document identification number SAP20011026000063.
23 October 2001
An editor for the Marathi newspaper Lokmat in Nagpur receives an envelope containing a suspicious white powder. The letter does not include a note. The substance is sent to the Haffkine Institute in Mumbai for tests. Results of the tests are not reported.
—"Anthrax Jitters in North Block," Press Trust of India, 23 October 2001, Nationwide International News; "Anthrax Scare Hits Nagpur City," Times of India, 24 October 2001.
23 October 2001
The Arti Industries corporate office in Bombay receives an envelope from Egypt containing a yellow powder. The office is decontaminated and workers are sent home, while the substance is sent for tests. Results of the tests are not reported.
—"Anthrax Scare Hits Bombay Chemical Factory," Agence France Presse, 23 October 2001, International News; "Anthrax Scare Spreads to Indian Home Ministry," Agence France Presse, 23 October 2001, International News; "Indian Laboratory Suspects One Anthrax Letter Case," Agence France Presse, 2 November 2001, International News.
23 October 2001
Indian Home Minister L.K. Advani receives a letter at his office in New Delhi containing a suspicious powdery substance. The substance is sent for tests, which reveals that it does not contain B. anthracis spores.
—"Anthrax Jitters in North block," Press Trust of India, 23 October 2001, Nationwide International News; "Anthrax Scare at Indian Presidential Palace," Agence France Presse 30 October 2001, International News.
23 October 2001
A seven member high-level team led by Alok Srivatsav, Inspector General of Public Food Health Laboratories, Drugs, and Copyrights and the Director of Institute of Preventive Disease, visits Bharat Biotech. The team is to assess the company's capabilities in detecting anthrax, as state facilities do not have this capability.
—"India: Anthrax Detection: High-level Team Visits Bharat Bio," Business Line, 24 October 2001.
24 October 2001
A letter containing a powdery substance is found in Afzalgunj. The substance is sent to the Institute of Preventive Medicine for tests, results are not reported.
—"Panic Grips US Attack Suspect's Families," Times of India, 27 October 2001.
24 October 2001
A letter containing a powdery substance is found in Panjagutta. The substance is sent to the Institute of Preventive Medicine for tests, results are not reported.
—"Panic Grips US Attack Suspect's Families," Times of India, 27 October 2001.
24 October 2001
The Indian Defense Research and Development Establishment is asked to conduct training programs on all aspects of biological and chemical warfare for civilian authorities.
—P. Sunderarajan, "India: Training to Tackle Biological Warfare," The Hindu, 25 October 2001.
24 October 2001
The office of Maharastra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh receives a letter containing a suspicious white powder. The letter does not include a note. The substance is sent to the Haffkine Institute for testing, which shows that it does not contain B. anthracis spores.
—"Anthrax Scare Grips Office of Vilasrao Deshmukh," Nrilinks.com, October 2001, <http://www.nrilinks.com>; "Anthrax Scare Reaches Mantralaya Via Mail," Times of India, 26 October 2001; "India: Mail With 'Suspicious Powder' Reaches Office of Advani, High Places," The Economic Times in English, 26 October 2001, available from FBIS, document identification number SAP20011026000063; "India: 'Powder' at Deshmukh Office," The Hindu, 25 October 2001; Pamela Raghunath, "Traces of Anthrax Found in Mail to Mantralaya," Gulf News, 3 November 2001.
24 October 2001
The office of Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parikkar in Panaji receives a letter containing a suspicious white powder. The substance is sent to the health department in Bombay for tests. Results of the tests are not reported.
—"India in Grip of Anthrax Scare," Rediff.com, 24 October 2001, <http://www.rediff.com>; "India: Mail With 'Suspicious Powder' Reaches Office of Advani, High Places," The Economic Times in English, 26 October 2001, available from FBIS, document identification number SAP20011026000063.
24 October 2001
The Bombay office of Chagan Bhujbal, the deputy chief minister in the state of Maharashta, receives a letter containing a white powder. The substance is sent for tests, which are negative for B. anthracis spores.
—"Anthrax Horror Strikes Europe," Sunday Mail, 4 November 2001, News; p. 5; "Defense Lab Tests Show White Powder in India Does Not Contain Anthrax Spores," Reporter-news.com, 6 November 2001, available from <http://www.reporter-news.com>.
26 October 2001
The Centre announces that a meeting is to be held on 29 October to review states' and unions' preparedness for a chemical or biological terrorist attack. The meeting is to include home and health ministers from all Indian states and unions.
—"India: Meet to Discuss Bioterrorism," The Hindu, 27 October 2001.
27 October 2001
A letter containing a suspicious powder is sent to Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in Hyderabad. Doctors from the Institute of Preventative Medicine are called to determine if the substance contains B. anthracis spores, with negative results. Authorities send the substance to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases for further analysis.
—"Anthrax Alarm at Secretariat," Times of India, 29 October 2001.
27 October 2001
The National Institute of Communicable Diseases states that all 92 of the suspected anthrax samples have turned up negative. The Institute states that the samples are tested by using a direct smear examination, inoculation, and PCR studies.
—"Anthrax Scare: All Samples Test Negative," Press Trust of India, 27 October 2001, Nationwide International News.
29 October 2001
At a workshop of Indian scientists and state health officials addressing the issue of bioterrorism, Union Health Minister C.P. Thakur states that India is preparing for a biological attack. Thakur states that the health ministry has prepared India by gearing up public health machinery, stockpiling antibiotics, and organizing continuing education of doctors.
—"Health Ministry Gets its Act Together on Bioterror," Times of India, 31 October 2001.
29 October 2001
The Indian Home Ministry in New Delhi receives a letter containing a suspicious powder. The substance has been sent for testing, with results not being reported.
—"Home Ministry Receives Yet Another Suspicious Letter," Press Trust of India, 29 October 2001.
30 October 2001
The Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi receives two letters containing a suspicious powder. The substance is sent to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases for tests. Tests show that the substance does not contain B. anthracis spores.
—"Anthrax Scare at Indian Presidential Palace," International News, 30 October 2001; "Anthrax Scare in Russian Embassy, Textile Ministry, UPSC," Press Trust of India, 9 November 2001, Nationwide International News; "Rashtrapati Bhawan letter tests negative for anthrax," Press Trust of India, 4 November 2001.
November 2001
An Indian government committee studying India's capability to respond to a biological terrorist attack releases a report in which it concludes that India must establish a specialized laboratory focused on bioterrorism. Following the report, the Indian government immediately releases funds to establish such a lab.
—"India: Tackling Bio—Terrorism: Specialized Lab Soon," The Hindu, 28 November 2001.
5 November 2001
Panacea Biotech Limited and Biotechnology Consortium enter into an agreement to develop and market a new anthrax vaccine. Unlike other anthrax vaccines, this one does not contain lethal factor (LF) and edema factor (EF).
—"Panacea, BCI In pact to Market Anthrax Vaccine," Hiindustantimes.com, 5 November 2001, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.
9 November 2001
The Textile Ministry in New Delhi receives a letter containing powder. The substance is sent to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases for tests. Results of the tests are not reported.
—"Anthrax Scare in Russian Embassy, Textile Ministry, UPSC," Press Trust of India, 9 November 2001, Nationwide International News.
9 November 2001
The Russian Embassy in New Delhi receives two letters containing a suspicious white powder. The letters are handed over to authorities, who send them to India's National Institute of Communicable Diseases for tests. Results of the tests are not reported.
—"Anthrax Scare in Russian Embassy, Textile Ministry, UPSC," Press Trust of India, 9 November 2001, Nationwide International News.
12 November 2001
The High Security Animal Disease Laboratory in Bhopal agrees to test the anthrax vaccine developed by Panacea Biotech Limited and Biotechnology Consortium.
—"India: Anthrax Vaccine Being Tested," The Hindu, 13 November 2001.
19 November 2001
US Undersecretary of State for Arms Control John Bolton notes in a speech that the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has previously stated that India is suspected of having a biological weapons program.
—Frances Williams, "US Name And Shames on Bioweapons; Germ Warfare: Washington Denounces Six Countries Accused of Having or Seeking Such Weapons," Financial Times, 20 November 2001.
20 November 2001
India holds a three-fold strategy to prevent exploitation of any loopholes in the BWC. The Indian representative to the Conference on Disarmament, Rakesh Sood, states that dual-use medical technology should be regulated on guidelines that are negotiated and accepted by all parties to the treaty.
—"India For Checking Misuse of Biological And Toxin Convention," Press Trust of India, 20 November 2001.
26 November 2001
Union minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr. C.P. Thakur states that an around-the-clock control room has been set up at the National Institute of Communicable Diseases.
—"Two Anthrax Deaths Reported in Karnataka," Times of India Online, 26 November 2001, <http://www.timesofindia.com>.
27 November 2001
Union minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr. C.P. Thakur states that none of the 303 suspected anthrax samples tested at the National Institute of Communicable Diseases has tested positive for anthrax.
—"Govt Taking Steps to Set up Special Courts," Times of India, 4 December 2001.
27 November 2001
The Indian state of Andhra Pradesh announces that it will establish a specialized Bio-Safety Laboratory (BSL-2) at the Institute of Preventive Medicine. The laboratory will be tasked with countering the various forms of bioterrorism.
—"India: Tackling Bio-Terrorism: Specialized Lab Soon," The Hindu, 28 November 2001.
January 2002
India officially permits the sale of genetically engineered cotton seeds.
—Ranjit Devraj, "Environment: Biotechnology Weapons Worse Than Nukes, Critics Say," Inter Press Service, 25 January 2002.
1 March 2002
India signs a deal with Polish SKO-1T Drawa-T Thermal Imaging Fire-Control Systems to update 250 of its T-72 tanks. The deal will allow India to update its tanks' nuclear, biological, and chemical defense systems.
—Grzegorz Holdanowicz and Rahul Bedi, "India Signs T-72 Upgrade Deal," Jane's, 20 March 2002, <http://www.janes.com>.
23 May 2002
An Integrated Field Shelter is developed. The shelter is designed to provide collective personnel protection from nuclear, chemical, or biological agents. The shelter is developed by the Research and Development Engineers, Pune, which is part of the DRDO. It is designed to accommodate thirty people for 95 hours.
"Integrated Field Shelter for Protection From Nuclear, Biological And Chemical Agents Developed by DRDO," Ministry of Defense Press Release, 23 May 2002, <http://mod.nic.in>.
30 May 2002
Milind Shete, editor of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) weekly Sanskritik Vartapatra in Pune, receives a letter containing a white powder. The letter contains a note stating that if VHP general secretary Dr. Pravin Togadia does not change his style of functioning, more letters will be sent. The sender identifies himself as Al-Qaida and writes, "Welcome to the world of bio-terror." The letter is sent by authorities for testing. Results of the tests are not reported.
—"Anthrax Scare in VHP Office," Daily Global News, 31 May 2002, <http://www.ds-osac.org>.
7 June 2002
Dr. A.K. Walia, New Delhi's health minister, is quoted as saying that the capital is ready for all levels of attack, including a biological or nuclear attack. He also says that some hospital workers have received special training on how to respond to a chemical attack, and that India had ordered three mobile hazardous chemical units from Germany.
—Edna Fernandes, "India Prepares For The Prospect of Nuclear War; Civil Defense Mass Production Ordered of Shelters Able to Withstand Nuclear Attack; A National Contingency Plan For The Masses Has Been Put on Standby in Recent Days," Financial Times, 7 June 2002, Asia-Pacific; p. 12.
19 June 2002
DRDO laboratories in Gwalior and Ahmednagar develop a nuclear, chemical, and biological decontamination system.
—"NBC Decontamination System Developed," Press Information Bureau of Indian Press Release, 19 June 2002, <http://pib.nic.in>.
21 June 2002
The DRDO laboratory in Gwalior develops First Aid Kits for nuclear, biological and chemical warfare. The kits are split into two groups, Type A and Type B. Type A kits provide support for four to six persons, while Type B kits support 50-60 persons. Type A kits contain an inhaler, antibiotics, antipyretic tablets, dressing pads, personal decontamination kits, three-color detector paper, and amyl nitrate durules. Type B kits contain essential medicines, drugs, injectibles, syringes, dressing materials, detector paper, and a water testing kit. Both kits have already been entered into service.
—"First Aid Kit to Treat NBC Injuries Developed," Press Information Bureau of Indian Press Release, 21 June 2002, <http://pib.nic.in>.
11 July 2002
India's military scientists say that they have developed safeguards against chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons. They assert that they did not violate any international conventions during their experiments. They state that they also have developed 26 items that allow them to detect and respond to a chemical or nuclear attack.
—Pratap Chakvarty, "India Readies Nuclear Shelters, Trains Military Against First Strike," Agence France Presse, 11 July 2002.
26 October 2002
In a public address to the commanders of the three armed services, Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee states, "technology has now created chemical and biological weapons of great diversity, which are difficult to detect. Many of the techniques and weapons can fall into the hands of non-state actors."
--“Goals, Not Dates, First: PM,” Indian Express, 27 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 14 February 2005, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>. "PM Warns of Unexpected Terror Targets & Tactics," Global News Wire, 28 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 April 2005, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
28 October 2002
President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam asserts on behalf of India that "We will not make biological weapons. It is cruel to human beings." He makes this statement in response to a question during a conversation at the Al-Almeen Education Society in Bangalore.
—“India Not To Make Biological Weapons: President,” The Press Trust of India, 28 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 April 2005, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
28 October 2002
The United Nations General Assembly's first committee unanimously adopts India's draft resolution on measures to prevent terrorists from acquiring weapons of mass destruction. The resolution focuses on the need for member states to take steps to ensure that biological, chemical, and nuclear weapons, their delivery systems, and related materials and technologies, do not fall into the hands of terrorists. The resolution is non-binding and not enforceable.
—“India Moves UN on Weapons of Mass Destruction,” Global News Wire, 28 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 April 2005, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
5 November 2002
Indian scientists say that the Indian government's 1975 decision to shut down a U.S.-sponsored mosquito research project in India has been vindicated by the United States' admission that a similar project on Baker Island in the South Pacific was part of a Cold War biological weapons research program. N.P. Gupta, the former director of the National Institute of Virology states that then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi "acted correctly" by ordering the closure of the U.S.-sponsored project just before the planned massive release of "Aedes aegypti" mosquitos in Sonepat, India. These mosquitoes transmit yellow and dengue fevers.
—“Closure of US Project Justified, Say Indian Scientists,” The Press Trust of India, 5 November 2002, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 April 2005, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
8 November 2002
Representatives from the Army Medical Corps and the Defense Research and Development Organization participate in a seminar on "Medical Response to NBC (Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical) Warfare.” They identify "Survive to Serve" as the key strategy to counter such a chemical, biological, or nuclear attack, and stress that Indian hospitals are not adequately prepared for events arising from such an attack.
—“In the Name of an NBC Attack,” The Economic Times of India, Global News Wire, 10 November 2002, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 April 2005, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
6 December 2002
Indian students present papers on bio-weapons, bio-terrorism, and anthrax at the Integrated Science National Meet.
—“Seminar to Focus on Integrated Science,” The Hindu, 6 December 2002, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 April 2005, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
11 December 2002
Lieutenant-General B.N. Shahi, the Director-General of the Armed Forces Medical Services, says that the Army is taking precautions against the possibility of the use of biological agents by terrorists, and that India faces threats from smallpox and anthrax. He states, "We have plans to counter them in the form of antidotes and vaccines."
—Chowdhury, Srinjoy. “Bio-terror Close to Home,” The Statesman, Global News Wire, 12 December 2002, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 April 2005, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
18 December 2002
Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes states that "The government has initiated necessary steps to ensure protection from nuclear and bio-attack." However, the minister also says that it would not be in the interest of national security to disclose further details of these initiatives.
—“Defense Ministry Hasn't Replied to CAG: George,” The Times of India, Global News Wire, 19 December 2002, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 April 2005, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
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Updated April 2005 |
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