2 January 2003
India and Pakistan exchange lists of their nuclear facilities and installations as stipulated under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack Against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, signed by the two countries in 1988. This is the 12^th time the two countries have exchanged this information.
--Amit Baruah, "India, Pak. Exchange List of N-Installations," The Hindu, 2 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 2 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

4 January 2003
India plans to build thorium based advanced heavy water reactors with new safety features in two years. The reactors will increase the nuclear energy production for civilian purposes.
--"Thorium Based Nuclear Reactors Designed by India Scientists," Xinhua General News, 4 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 4 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

5 January 2003
India outlines an eight-point nuclear doctrine. The doctrine's features include: a no-first-use posture; authorization of retaliatory attacks solely by civilian political leadership through the Nuclear Command Authority; the building and maintaining of a credible minimum deterrent; non-use of nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapon states; the right to use nuclear weapons in retaliation to chemical and biological attacks; strict export controls; participation in the proposed fissile material cut-off treaty; continued observance of the ban on nuclear testing; and commitment to the goal of a nuclear weapons-free world through global, verifiable and non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament.
--India Outlines 8-Point Nuclear Doctrine," Xinhua News Service, 5 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

5 January 2003
The Indian government announces a new nuclear posture that allows India to "retain the option of retaliating with nuclear weapons" in the event of a major biological or chemical attack against India or Indian forces anywhere.
--"India Establishes a Nuclear Command System," The New York Times, 5 January 2003, http://www.nytimes.com.

6 January 2003
In a comment on India's nuclear posture announcement, Pakistani Foreign Office Spokesman Aziz Khan says, "India's announcement to use nuclear weapons if attacked with biological or chemical weapons signals an important extension of India's policy of using nuclear weapons. This is further evidence that nuclear weapons and their use is very much a part of India's strategic policy."
--"Operation Against Terrorists Only by Pakistani Forces: FO," The Pakistan Newswire, 6 January 2003, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 January 2003
Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes warns that Pakistan will be wiped out if India responds to a nuclear attack on its territory by Pakistan. He says, "We can take a bomb or two or more ... but when we respond there will be no Pakistan." The statement was made in response to a statement by General Musharraf who said last month that he had warned India "they should not expect a conventional war from Pakistan" if Indian troops entered Pakistan during last year's tense 10-month military stand-off.
--"Indian Defense Minister Warns Pakistan Against Nuclear Rhetoric," Agence France Presse, 7 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 7 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

8 January 2003
The CIA names India, Pakistan, Iran and North Korea "secondary proliferators" because they are not members of control regimes such as Nuclear Suppliers Group, Australia Group, and Missile Technology Control Regime. "Under economic pressure, need for lucrative foreign sales is a strong incentive to supplying entities, particular in case of dual-use items and technology," the CIA says.
--"India, Pak, 2 others clubbed by CIA as Secondary Proliferators," Press Trust of India, 8 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

12 January 2003
Pakistan's foreign office says that India's recent disclosure of its eight point nuclear doctrine and the formation of a Nuclear Command Authority only adds greater insecurity to the region as it is further evidence that nuclear weapons and their use is part of India's strategic policy.
--Nadeem Iqbal, "India's Nuke Doctrine Adds to Insecurity - Pakistan," Inter Press Service, 12 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 14 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

13 January 2003
Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes says that India will not review its "no-first-use" policy.
--"India Not to Review No First Use Nuclear Policy," PTI News Agency, New Delhi, 13 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 14 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

16 January 2003
The Indian Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) and the Federal Nuclear and Radiation Safety Authority of Russia sign an agreement for cooperation in the field of safety regulation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. The AERB intends to familiarize itself with ensuring safety of nuclear power plant personnel and the public and protection of the environment against any possible harmful effects of radiation.
--"India, Russia Sign Agreement for Nuclear Safety," Xinhua News Agency, 16 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 17 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

16 January 2003
India's current rotating Chief of Joint Armed Forces Command Admiral Madhvendera Singh dismisses speculation that the army, air force and navy are reluctant to surrender their nuclear arsenals to the newly formed Nuclear Command Authority which will decide the use of nuclear weapons. Singh states, "There will be no problems over the transfer of command and control of the nuclear weapons."
--"No Squabbling for Nuclear Button: India's Chief Commander," Agence France Presse, 16 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 17 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

18 January 2003
India and United States decide to continue communications on missile defenses and related issues. "The two sides discussed security contributions that missile defense could make ... the meeting also provided an opportunity to review the latest developments in the US missile defense policy and program," says an Indian external affairs ministry spokesperson.
--"Indo-US Talks on Missile Defense to Continue," Times of India, 18 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

19 January 2003
Russia and India sign a nuclear safety agreement in Mumbai during a visit to India by Yuriy Vishnevskiy, Head of Russia's Federal Monitoring Authority for Nuclear and Radiation Safety. The two countries agree to develop bilateral cooperation in regulating safety while using nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. Russia and India have a number of contracts on supplying materials and equipment for the nuclear power plant and sending Russian experts on a mission to install the equipment.
--"Russia, India Sign Nuclear Safety Agreement," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 19 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

27 January 2003
Defense Minister George Fernandes warns Pakistan that it will be destroyed and "erased from the world map" should it decide to attack India with nuclear weapons. Fernandes also states "There has been talk of Pakistani nuclear weapons falling in the hands of dangerous elements. We believe whatever the policy of Pakistani leadership towards India, howsoever irresponsible they may be, it is difficult to accept that they would put such weapons in the hands of individuals or organizations who might eventually use them."
--"George Warns Pak on N-Threat," The Statesman (India), 27 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 28 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

29 January 2003
Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes warns Pakistan against a nuclear attack. In response to the possibility of Pakistan using nuclear weapons against India he says, "If Pakistan has decided that it wants to get itself destroyed and erased from the world map, then it may take this step of madness, but if it wants to survive then it would not do so."
--"India's Nuclear Warning," The Daily Telegraph, 29 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 29 January 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

4 February 2003
The Director-General of Armed Forces Medical Services Lt. Gen. BN Shahi urges medical personnel to train in preparation for nuclear, biological and chemical warfare.
--"Indian Army Medical Staff Urged to Train for Nuclear Eventuality," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 4 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 4 February 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

6 February 2003
Indian Prime Minister Vajpayee and Iranian President Khatami sign the New Delhi Declaration during Khatami's visit to India. Among other issues of agreement, both sides call for multilateral discussions on nuclear disarmament.
--"Iran, India Sign 'New Delhi Declaration,'" Global Newswire/Asia Africa Intelligence Wire, 6 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 7 February 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

8 February 2003
Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes reiterates that India has not changed its policy of no-first-use of nuclear weapons. He states, "There could be no change as far as the nuclear doctrine was concerned. It remains as it was."
--"Fernandes Sees No Change in India's Nuclear Doctrine," World News Connection, 8 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 11 February 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

14 February 2003
Indian External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha expresses serious concern over Pakistan's involvement in North Korea's nuclear program in an interview with IANS Indo-Asian News Service at the nonaligned countries summit in Kuala Lumpur. Sinha says that the issue did not receive as much attention from the United States and the international community as it should have.
--"India: Sinha Airs Concern Over Pakistan's Role in North Korea's Nuclear Program," World News Connection, 14 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 February 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

15 February 2003
India and Russia sign a $400 million contract for the supply of nuclear fuel for the Kudankulam atomic power plant in Tamil Nadu. The plant is scheduled to begin operation in 2007. Spent fuel is to be reprocessed and stored in India under the International Atomic Energy Agency control.
--"India, Russia Sign Contract for Supply of Nuclear Fuel for Atomic Power Plant," World News Connection, 15 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 February 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

19 February 2003
The United States announces sanctions on the Indian company NEC Engineers Private Limited for allegedly contributing to Iraq's biological and chemical weapons program. American officials say that NEC Engineers' transfers of biological and chemical materials to Iraq took place "over a period of time," including but not limited to 2002.
--"US Sanctions Indian Company for Selling Iraq WMD Materials," The Washington Times, 2 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

20 February 2003
Junior Minister for External Affairs Digvijay Singh tells the upper house of parliament (Rajya Sabha) that India will only use nuclear weapons in retaliation against "a nuclear attack on our territory or on Indian forces anywhere." India continues to maintain its no-first-use policy.
--"India to Retaliate Against Any Nuclear Attack," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 20 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 February 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

23 February 2003
During his six-day visit to India, Richard A. Meserve, Chairman of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission announces that the United States will renew its ties with India on nuclear safety cooperation in the areas of license renewal and risk-informed regulation, as well as fire-safety, symptom-based emergency procedures and plant design modifications.
--"India-USA Agree to Expand Nuclear Safety Cooperation," PTI News Agency/BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 27 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 February 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

27 February 2003
Members of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission praise India's nuclear safety standards. India has 14 reactors and has never had a serious accident.
--Beth Duff-Brown, "American Nuclear Scientists Praise India's Safety Regulations," Associated Press, 27 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 28 February 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

6 March 2003
India's Junior Minister for External Affairs Digvijay Singh states during question hour at the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the parliament, that India has asked the international community, including the United States to "examine what additional steps are required to ensure an end to Pakistan's links with terrorism and clandestine proliferation."
--"India Wants International Community to Examine Pakistan 'Links with Terrorism,'" BBC Monitoring International Reports, 6 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 March 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

6 March 2003
Richard A. Meserve, Chairman of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission states that United States and India will hold workshops to discuss nuclear plant safety, specifically in fire safety, reactor design and emergency operating procedures. The first workshop will be held in the United States and the second one will be held in India.
--"India, US Will Organize Workshops on N-Plant Safety," Economic Times, 6 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 March 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

31 March 2003
Russian Corporation TVEL agrees to a contract to supply nuclear fuel to India's nuclear power plant in Kudankulam. The deal is worth $400 million. Specialists from the International Atomic Energy Agency will control the deliveries, storage and loading of nuclear fuel.
--"Russia to Export Fuel for Indian Nuclear Power Plant," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 31 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 31 March 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

31 March 2003
According to an AFP report, an official from the state-run Nuclear Power Corporation of India has criticized nuclear supplier countries belonging to the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) for making it difficult for non-members of the Nonproliferation Treaty to acquire civilian nuclear technology. The official said, "Because of technology regimes like the [NSG] and Non-Proliferation Treaty, the technology is not easily traded."
--"India Rues Problem of Importing Nuclear Technology," Agence France Presse, 31 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 31 March 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

1 April 2003
Indian External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha tells Star News of that Pakistan is waging a proxy war against India by funding a Jammu and Kashmir separatist group. However, Sinha adds that India will take all steps to prevent war with Pakistan, and will not be the first to use nuclear weapons against Pakistan in the event of a conflict between the two countries.
--"Sinha Says India Not to be First to Use Nuclear Weapons in Any War with Pakistan," World News Connection, 1 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 3 April 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

3 April 2003
According to a report in the Indian newspaper The Hindu, India is actively looking for ways to ensure that the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) guidelines do not hinder the growth of nuclear facilities for peaceful purposes. As a supplier of nuclear fuel for some of India's reactors, Russia has faced opposition and criticism within the NSG for violating its commitments to nonproliferation. NSG regulations prohibit the supply of nuclear material and equipment to any country which does not permit full-scope safeguards under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). India has not accepted the safeguards. Bilateral civilian nuclear cooperation with the United States has been ruled out and, according to the article, India hopes that Russia will raise the issue of exceptions to NSG guidelines in specific instances.
--Amit Baruah, "India Looking for Ways to Continue Civilian Nuclear Cooperation," The Hindu, 3 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 April 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

10 April 2003
The Chief Executive of the Nuclear Fuel Complex (NFC) C. Ganguly tells newspapers that while India is using enriched uranium supplied by Russia to fuel the nuclear plant to be built in Kudankulam, India is capable of producing its own zirconium-niobium clad enriched uranium oxide fuel for the future. India is able to produce this fuel after years of manufacturing experience on industrial scale manufacturing of zirconium alloy hardware and natural and enriched uranium oxide fuels for the Indian reactors.
--"Official Says India Can Make Own Fuel for Nuclear Plant," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 10 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 10 April 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

11 April 2003
Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes endorses comments made earlier by Foreign Minister Yashwant Sinha that Pakistan is a prime candidate for preemptive strikes by the United States as it has weapons of mass destruction and simultaneously supports terrorists. India has accused Pakistan of arming and training Muslim militants in Kashmir. Pakistan denies the charges but says it offers moral and political support for Kashmir's legitimate struggle.
--"Indian Defense Minister Says Pakistan 'Prime Case' for Pre-Emptive Strikes," Associated French Press, 11 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 15 April 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

11 April 2003
Pakistani Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shaikh Rashid Ahmed states that India is a "fit case" for pre-emptive strikes owing to its possession of chemical weapons. According to Ahmed, "As far as chemical and biological weapons are concerned, it is India that is active in this field. And it has stockpiled these weapons in neighboring countries." However, Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes and External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha reject Ahmed's allegations as false.
--"Pakistan Information Minister Reiterates India Fit Case for Preemptive Strikes," Global News Wire, 12 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, http://www.lexis-nexis.com; "Indian Defence Minister Rejects Pakistan's Biological, Chemical Weapons Charge," BBC Monitoring South Asia - Political, 11 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, http://www.lexis-nexis.com; "Pakistani Minister Says India Stockpiles Weapons in Other Countries," BBC Monitoring South Asia - Political, 22 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, http://www.lexis-nexis.com.

16 April 2003
Indian Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal tells the private NDTV network that "Pakistan is probably the most irresponsible country in the world" for sponsoring terrorism by Islamic insurgents in Kashmir. He adds that "Pakistan is also irresponsible for its volatile mixture of international terrorism, Islamic fundamentalism and weapons of mass destruction."
--"India Calls Pakistan, 'Most Irresponsible Country,'" World News Communication/AFP, 16 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 April 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

20 April 2003
A report by the US Central Intelligence Agency states that India continues to pursue a more advanced nuclear weapons program. India has already sought the help of Russia and Western European countries for missile-related and dual-use technologies. The report adds that India is engaged in talks with Israel for the Arrow-2 anti-tactical ballistic missile and that Israel might have sold the Harpy unmanned aerial vehicle to India. It further reports that New Delhi has signed a $270 million contract with Tel Aviv for the supply of the ship-borne Barak-1 surface-to-air missile defense system and is also negotiating the purchase of nuclear submarines and an aircraft carrier from Russia.
--"India Continues to Build More Sophisticated Nuclear Weapons: US Intelligence Report," The Pakistan Newswire, 21 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 April 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

22 April 2003
The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Director General Rogelio Pfirter states that India is on target to meet the deadline for destroying some of its chemical weapons. He says that by 29 April 2003, India, the United States, and Russia, "will have destroyed the percentage of munitions and chemical agents that they have committed themselves to reduce under the (1993 chemical weapons) convention."
--Watchdog: US, Russia, India On Track to Reduce Chemical Weapons Stockpiles," Agence France Presse, 22 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, http://www.lexis-nexis.com.

23 April 2003
The United Jihad Council accuses India of using "chemical weapons" against militants in "held Kashmir." The Council says in a statement, "India is using chemical weapons against the Mujahideen in sheer violation of all those international laws and principles whose implementation has been declared obligatory by the United Nations.
--"Pakistan: India Warned of `Serious Repercussions' Against Use of Poisonous Gasses," Global News Wire, 24 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, http://www.lexis-nexis.com.

25 April 2003
Pakistan alleges to the United States that India is using chemical weapons in Kashmir and asks that the United States intervene in the matter.
--"Pakistan: Daily Expects Armitage's Visit to Prove Breakthrough on Kashmir, Other Issues," Global News Wire, 25 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, http://www.lexis-nexis.com.

30 April 2003
India's nuclear power plant capacity, which reached a record 89% in December 2002, is expected to reach an average capacity of 90% in 2003.
--"India Breaks Nuke Record," India Business Insight/Financial Times Information, 30 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 3 May 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

30 April 2003
The Indian Army's Public Relations Officer Lt.-Colonel S.P.K. Singh alleges that foreign mercenaries in the Jammu and Kashmir region have chemical weapons. He describes how Indian Army intelligence intercepted radio transmissions between guerillas reportedly instructing fighters to "look towards their containers" in the case of heavy losses to Indian federal forces.
--"J&K Ultras Have Chemical Arms," The Statesman, 1 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, http://www.lexis-nexis.com.

2 May 2003
Speaking in parliament, Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee states that India will resume full diplomatic ties and civil aviation links after a two year break with Pakistan in an attempt to restore peace with the nuclear-armed rival. India also hopes that the move will being about an end to terrorism in Kashmir.
--Pratap Chakravarty, "India Offers Full Diplomatic, Air Links with Nuclear Rival Pakistan," Agence France Presse, 2 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 3 May 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

3 May 2003
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Chhagan Bhujbal announces the seizure of lethal chemicals and some arms from two nearby militant training centers. The seizure comes in the aftermath of the arrest of six Students Islamic Movement of India activists with links to Lashker-e-Toiba and to Pakistan. Mr. Bhujbal claims that the seized materials include one kilogram of potassium cyanide, bottles of sulphuric acid, ammonium nitrate, nitric acid, as well as firearms.
--"India: Policy Seize `Lethal Chemicals' Linked to Militant Groups," BBC Monitoring South Asia - Political, 3 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, http://www.lexis-nexis.com.

4 May 2003
On a three day visit to India, Japan's Defense Chief Shigeru Ishiba and his Indian counterpart George Fernandes discuss North Korean nuclear weapons-related security issues.
--"Japanese Defense Chief to Visit India to Discuss North Korea, Security," Kyodo News Service, Tokyo, 25 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 25 April 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

5 May 2003
Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesman Aziz Ahmed Khan says that Pakistan will get rid of its nuclear arsenal if India does the same. "As far as Pakistan is concerned, if India is ready to denuclearize, we would be happy to denuclearize. But it will have to be mutual," he says. In response, Indian Prime Minister Vajpayee states, "Pakistan's atomic program is India-specific. But India's nuclear program is not Pakistan-specific. We have to keep in mind developments in other neighboring states as well."
--"Pakistan Official: We Will Eliminate Nuclear Weapons if India Does," Associated Press, 5 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 May 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/; "India: Vajpayee on Nuclear Programme," Infoprod/Financial Times Information, 8 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 May 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

10 May 2003
During his three-day visit to Washington, DC, India's National Security Advisor Brajesh Mishra urges US policy makers to relax supply restrictions on the sale of dual-use nuclear and space technologies to India. Mishra contends that India will not divert such technologies for military programs. Instead, the technologies will enhance scientific research and development in the country.
--Anwar Iqbal, "India asks US for dual-use technology," United Press International, 10 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 11 May 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

11 May 2003
Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee addresses a meeting at India's Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO). In the address Vajpayee criticizes the sanctions imposed by Western countries on India's nuclear and missile sectors and laments that India's impeccable nonproliferation track record has gone unrecognized. "We have denied ourselves many lucrative contracts and joint ventures. We have never received any recognition for this," says Vajpayee. In a reference to India's May 1998 nuclear tests, Vajpayee states that sanctions did not begin in the aftermath of those tests, but had started in 1974 in the aftermath of the first nuclear test. Additional sanctions were imposed under the Missile Technology Control Regime. In his address, the scientific advisor to the defense minister and head of DRDO, Dr. V.K. Aatre appeals to the government to create incentives for scientists to prevent them from leaving India for assignments abroad.
--"Vajpayee flays selective sanctions," Indian Express, 11 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 May 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

31 May 2003
India's annual report of the defense ministry acknowledges improvements in Indo-Chinese relations. However it cautions that every major Indian city is within the reach of Chinese missiles. Furthermore, the asymmetry in nuclear forces between India and China was markedly in China's favor and was likely to become more pronounced as China responded to counter US advances in missile defense. The report also takes note of China's close defense relationship with Pakistan.
--"Defense report softens outlook on China," Hindu, 31 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

1 June 2003
France and Russia want to increase nuclear energy (for civilian purposes) cooperation with India, but guidelines of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) come in the way. Both countries want a review of the guidelines, which prohibit its members from supplying nuclear technology to any country that has not accepted full-scope safeguards. India has not accepted the full-scope safeguards. Russia states, "We believe that the activities of the NSG should not of course create obstacles for international cooperation in the field of peaceful purposes of atomic energy and take into account new realities in this field in an adequate and timely manner."
--"India: France, Russia Want Cooperation in 'Peaceful Uses' of Nuclear Energy," World News Connection, 1 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 15 August 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

2 June 2003
At a press briefing in Islamabad, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Aziz Ahmed Khan confirms that nuclear security will be on the agenda in talks to be held between India and Pakistan. He also states that Pakistan "assiduously tried to keep South Asia free of nuclear weapons, but was constrained to go nuclear [after India did]."
--Pakistan Says Nuclear Issue Will Be on Agenda in Talks with India," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 2 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 June 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

7 June 2003
The Indian Ministry of Defense expresses concern over the presence of Chinese navy ships and nuclear submarines in the Indian Ocean. While the ministry does not suspect China of directly providing military assistance to Pakistan, it is cautious about Chinese activities in Indian waters.
--"Chinese Presence in Indian Ocean Rings Alarm Bells in MoD," Indian Express, 7 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 7 June 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

16 June 2003
The International Atomic Energy Agency plans to undertake case studies in India, Russia and Argentina under its International Project on Innovative Nuclear Reactors and Fuel Cycles (INPRO). INPRO makes recommendations such as strengthening cooperation with other initiatives on innovative nuclear energy, on research and development initiatives in areas such as environmental impact and on proliferation resistance. --"IAEA Planning INPRO Project in India," Press Trust of India, 16 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 June 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

20 June 2003
Japan's Defense Agency Chief Shigeru Ishiba holds talks with Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes on his three-day visit to India. Both sides focus on North Korea nuclear issues as well as nuclear concerns involving Pakistan. Fernandes expresses concern over alleged nuclear proliferation between North Korea and Pakistan. Both sides agreed to promote bilateral talks between officials.
--"Japanese Defense Chiefs Discuss Proliferation, Regional Tensions," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 20 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 31 July 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

22 June 2003
The Thai Army denies reports that it is developing nuclear weapons with India. Thai Deputy Defense Spokesman Major General Palangkoon Klaharn says that the Thai and Indian military were not working on nuclear weapons development, but just sharing knowledge on modern weapons and computer technology related to nuclear weapons.
--Wassan Nanuam, "Thai Army Denies Developing Nuclear Arms with India, Says Cooperating in it," World News Connection, 22 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 June 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

26 June 2003
Indian parliamentary committee holds talks with defense officials to build two bunkers below the main parliament complex to protect ministers of parliament from nuclear and biological attacks.
--"Indian Parliament May Build Bunkers to Protect MPs from Nuclear Attack," Agence France Presse, 26 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 June 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

2 July 2003
Indian Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal visits the United States to hold another discussion on bilateral cooperation in high-technology areas, including the civilian uses of nuclear technology.
--"Indian Foreign Secretary to Discuss Hi-Tech Cooperation with US Officials," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 2 July 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 2 July 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

7 July 2003
At the "Energy, Environment and Sustainable Development" Symposium organized by the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research, Indian President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam says that India's current sources of energy -- oil and coal -- are depleting and alternate sources need to be found. He suggests the harnessing of nuclear and solar power on a large scale to meet India's energy deficit.
--"Harness Nuclear, Solar Power," The Hindu, 7 July 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 7 July 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

14 July 2003
As part of the nuclear dialogue between India and the United States, India will send a team of six experts to visit the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) during the second week of September 2003. Experts will have a comprehensive discussion on regulatory and safety related topics such as license renewal, periodical safety review, design modifications and retrofits and emergency operating procedures.
--"Indian Team to Visit US Nuclear Regulatory Commission," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 14 July 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 14 July 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

22 July 2003
India's Atomic Energy Department reveals that due to a valve failure at the Kalpakkam nuclear power plant, six workers suffered the "worst radiation exposure in India's nuclear history." Naresh Bansal, Associate Director of the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, says that the exposure is higher than the permissible annual exposure but lower than permissible lifetime exposure. The workers continue working at the plant in areas outside the radiation zone.
--S.N.M. Abdi, "India Admits Worst Case of Radiation Exposure at Power Plant; But Government is Silent on the Extent of Contamination Suffered by Six Workers," South China Morning Post, 22 July 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 July 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

31 July 2003
The Indian government confirms that it is involved in a dialogue with the United States to develop and expand nuclear and space cooperation. The United States and India have initiated five safety-related projects for safeguarded nuclear facilities.
--"India Confirms Talks Under Way with US on Civilian Nuclear, Space Cooperation," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 31 July 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 31 July 2y003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

6 August 2003
The Indian government decides to allow the duty-free import of equipment and samples by an inspection team from the Hague-based Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The action is viewed by India's chemical industry as a prelude to surprise inspections by the OPCW of companies and plants which produce dual-use chemicals and chemical weapons precursors.
--Minocha, Naresh. "India to Permit Int'l Chemical Weapons Inspections," Chemical News & Intelligence, 6 August 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, http://www.lexis-nexis.com.

12 August 2003
Amidst growing concerns about the environmental impact of the uranium mining project in Nalgonda district [Andhra Pradesh state], J.R. Gupta, Chairman and Managing Director of Uranium Corporation of India states that the project will not have any adverse effects on the workers, local residents, water supply or environment.
--"Processed Uranium Plant Will Be Safe," The Hindu, 12 August 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 August 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

13 August 2003
Naval Chief Admiral Madhavendra Singh says that while India is capable of nuclearization of the sea force, but does not feel the need for nuclear warheads on its ships. In a Doordarshan Interview he says, "We will put a nuclear reactor on a ship when we feel the need to. At the moment, right now we don't feel the need but we are capable."
-- "No Plan to Nuclearize Indian Ships Yet - Navy Chief Singh," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 13 August 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 13 August 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com/.

13 August 2003
Indian Vice-Chief of Army Staff Lt. General Shantonu Chowdhury announces, "We have radio intercepts that indicate terrorists could be making attempts to use chemicals and explosives" in the Jammu and Kashmir regions.
--"Army Official Notes Terrorists Plan to Use Chemical Weapons in Kashmir," Global News Wire, 14 August 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 February 2005, http://www.lexis-nexis.com.

24 August 2003
During a visit to India by Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi, the Indian government maintains that it has little involvement with pressure on Iran to sign the Additional Protocol, as India is not a member of the Nonproliferation Treaty.
--"Iran's Foreign Minister Meets PM Vajpayee and Sinha," Indian Express, 24 August 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 August 2004,http://www.lexis-nexis.com.

26 August 2003
At a lecture at the Institute of Defense and Strategic Studies in Singapore, Indian External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha expresses concern over the prospect of nuclear weapons falling into terrorist hands in Pakistan. He states, "This is particularly so in the immediate neighborhood of India where it is possible to find the conjunction of authoritarian rule, religious fundamentalism, terrorism, drug trafficking and weapons of mass destruction."
--"Terrorists Getting Nukes is Asia's Greatest Risk," Press Trust of India, 26 August 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 August 2004; http://www.lexis-nexis.com/.

27 August 2003
The Indian government's principal scientific adviser R. Chidambaram says that India faces no obstacles in its nuclear weaponization program, asserting that both plutonium and enriched uranium can be used in India's heavy water reactors. He reiterates that India's nuclear program is indigenous and the reactors are achieving as much as 98.4% of their operating capacity.
--"India Has No Obstacles in Nuke Program," The Times of India, 27 August 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 August 2004, http//www.lexis-nexis.com.

2 September 2003
Prime Minister Vajpayee chairs the first meeting of the Political Council of India's Nuclear Command Authority (NCA). Other members of the council who attended the meeting include the Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani, Union Defense Minister George Fernandes, Union Finance Minister Jaswant Singh, and National Security Advisor Brajesh Mishra. Among the agenda items discussed in the meeting are the relationship between the three armed services, the transfer of nuclear assets, and the institution of the Chief of Integrated Defense Staff. The council reportedly reviews the preparedness of the strategic command, the status of the air, land, and under-sea delivery platforms, and the doctrine pertaining to the delivery of nuclear weapons.
--"India holds high-powered meeting to review nuclear deterrence," Xinhua General News Service, 2 September 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 3 September 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

6 September 2003
India's Department of Atomic Energy forms a new company - the Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam - to build the country's first 500MW fast-breeder reactor near the Madras Atomic Power Station. The new company is formed in association with the Indira Gandhi Center for Atomic Research and the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. The reactor will use mixed oxide fuel consisting of plutonium carbide and uranium carbide; will attain criticality in 2010; and is expected to start generating power by mid-2010.
--"India to get its first 500-MW PFBR," Global News Wire, 6 September 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 September 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

18 September 2003
The Chairman of India's Atomic Energy Commission Dr. Anil Kakodkar makes a plea before the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna that barriers to the peaceful use of nuclear energy must be removed. Kakodkar also underlines India's commitment to nonproliferation and states, "We have a commitment and an interest in contributing as a partner against proliferation...we must shed the baggage inherited from the past which restricts the flow of equipment and technologies related to the peaceful uses of nuclear energy."
--"Barriers to safe n-energy must go," Hindu, 18 September 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 September 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

23 September 2003
The Indian government proposes to build two nuclear proof bunkers to protect the country's top leadership in case of a nuclear attack. The first bunker will be built in Central Delhi next to the presidential palace that houses offices of the prime minister, the defense and foreign ministries. However, the location of the second bunker is not disclosed.
--"India to build leaders' nuclear bunkers," United Press International, 23 September 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 September 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

25 September 2003
Prime Minister Vajpayee and President Bush discuss cooperation in the areas of nuclear energy, space, and high-technology, called the 'trinity items'. India's external affairs minister Yashwant Sinha says negotiations are "in the last lap,...we should be able to see some very concrete results soon."
--"India, US negotiations on ties on trinity items progressing," Press Trust of India, 25 September 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 25 September 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

1 October 2003
During an international conference on cold fusion in Boston, M. Srinivasan, former associate director of the physics group at the Bhabha Atomic Research Center discloses that India stopped funding cold fusion research in 1992. However he urges that India should revive work on cold fusion. "It is evident from the papers presented that cold fusion which was rejected by mainstream scientists 14 years ago is going to bounce back as a fascinating new era of nuclear science," says Srinivasan.
--"India should revive work on cold fusion: scientist," Press Trust of India, 1 October 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 October 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

6 October 2003
US Secretary of State Colin Powell indicates that the United States and India have made significant progress on the 'trinity issues' or cooperation in the areas of nuclear energy, space, and high-technology. Powell says that the "glide path" will bring two years of negotiations to an end. In an interview with Washington Post, Powell states, "we have really structured a new relationship with the Indians and it's a quite, quite strong and satisfactory relationship. There were a basket of issues that they were always asking us about...we nicknamed it 'The Trinity'...we have been trying to be as forthcoming as we can because it's in our interest to be forthcoming; but we also have to protect certain red lines that we have with respect to proliferation, because it's sometimes hard to separate within space launch activities and industries and nuclear programs, that which could go to weapons and that which could be solely for peaceful purposes...and also we've had a very productive set of discussions with the Indians over the last, almost two years now about these issues and how close we could get to satisfying these interests without crossing our red lines. And the 'glide path' was a way of bringing closure to this debate," says Powell. Powell explains that the "glide path" is a three-phase plan that would see India undertake measures in the realm of nonproliferation and strengthening domestic export control laws and the US responding with its own steps.
--Sridhar Krishnaswami, "US, India close to agreement on Trinity," Hindu, 6 October 2003; Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 October 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

8 October 2003
India's Air Force chief, Air Marshal S. Krishnaswami indicates that India is seriously examining the idea of an aerospace command. "Any country on the fringe of space technology like India has got to work towards an aerospace command as advanced countries are already moving towards laser weapon platforms in space and killer satellites," says Krishnaswami.
--"Aerospace command underway: IAF," Times of India, 8 October 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 7 October 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

20 October 2003
Vice Admiral Raman Puri succeeds Lt. General Pankaj Joshi as chief of the Integrated Defense Staff, the unified command that controls India's nuclear weapons.
--"India names new head of defense command for nuclear weapons," Doordarshan Television, 20 October 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

23 October 2003
The Hindustan Times reports that Dr. Y.S.R. Prasad, former head of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India, took up an assignment in Iran after he retired in July 2000. Prasad did not seek the Indian government's permission to take up the assignment in Iran. In light of this episode, the Indian government is revising rules to make it compulsory for Indian nuclear experts seeking employment abroad to obtain the government's approval.
--"Top Indian expert helped Iran develop power plant: report," AFP, 23 October 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 October 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

24 October 2003
The Chairman of India's Atomic Energy Commission Dr. Anil Kakodkar says that construction of the Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR) will begin 2004. The reactor fuel for the AHWR will be a hybrid core, partly thorium-uranium 233 and partly thorium-plutonium and will generate 300MWe of power. "We will treat it as a technology demonstrator for thorium utilization which marks the third phase," says Kakodkar. He adds, "this is a system which has operator-forgiving characteristics. It will give a grace period of three days for the operator to intervene in any situation. The demands [on the operator] are not likely to be very stringent." Kakodkar explains that India, which is currently operating 12 Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors, has entered the commercial domain of the first stage of the nuclear program. The beginning of the construction of the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) in August 2003, marks India's entry into the commercial domain of the second stage. In this context, the construction of the AHWR will constitute India's foray into the third phase of the program. Explaining the design philosophy of the AHWR, Kakodkar maintains that the reactor will incorporate passive design features which do not require human intervention.
--T.S. Subramaniam, "Advanced heavy water reactor construction next year," Hindu, 24 October 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 October 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

4 November 2003
A high-level team from India's Defense Research and Development Organization will reportedly visit Israel in December 2003 to discuss collaboration in India's nuclear submarine program.
--"DRDO team to visit Israel," Global News Wire, 4 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 November 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

6 November 2003
The CANDU Owners Group reportedly rates the heavy water reactors operating in India as the world's best performing plants during the period 1999-2002.
--"India's heavy water reactors rated world's best," Global News Wire, 6 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 15 November 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

11 November 2003
Russia's Atomic Energy Ministry states that "it is time to re-examine the ban introduced by the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) on cooperation with India over nuclear technology." In an interview with the Indian newspaper Hindu, Russian Atomic Energy Minister Aleksandr Rumyantsev says that it is "of crucial importance" to re-examine several aspects of the nuclear suppliers group document and draw up a special agreement on India that "allows it to cooperate with other countries in the nuclear sector." Rumyantsev's comments come before his meeting with Indian National Security Advisor Brajesh Mishra in Moscow.
--"Russian ministry wants to lift restrictions on nuclear cooperation with India," Global News Wire, 11 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 11 November 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

12 November 2003
Russia and India sign a slate of cooperation agreements during Prime Minister Vajpayee's visit to Moscow. The agreements cover cooperation between the Russian Academy of Sciences and India's Department of Science and Technology; the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Indian National Science Academy; and the Russian Air and Space Agency and the Indian Space Research Organization. Another agreement covers cooperation in nuclear power engineering.
--"India, Russia sign cooperation agreements," Global News Wire, 12 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 November 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

13 November 2003
Russia's Deputy Atomic Minister Vladimir Asmolov states at a conference on 'Small-Scale Power Generating Industry-2003' in Obninsk that Russia discussed the subject of a low-capacity atomic heat and power plants based on a floating power plant with Indian National Security Advisor Brajesh Mishra, during the latter's recent visit to Moscow. The Indian government expressed interest in the project and export of the plant is now being considered to India, Indonesia, South Korea, China and other countries suffering from shortage of drinking water. One such 77 MW floating unit can generate sufficient electricity and thermal energy to support a town of 50,000 people or provide enough fresh water for one million people. The barge-mounted reactor could be towed to any point along India's coast line. However, the cost of generating power from a single $150 million unit would be twice as expensive in comparison to land reactors. Russian scientists have built a prototype of a floating nuclear reactor for water purification and are planning to build a full-fledged floating nuclear power plant by the end of 2008 for use in Russia's northern areas. In this context, Russian Atomic Energy Minister Rumyantsev comments that if Russia supplies such units to India it will not be breaking any Nuclear Suppliers Group restrictions as the units will be operated by Russian personnel and Russia will only be selling electricity to India.
--"India said interested in Russian low-capacity nuclear plant design," Global News Wire, 13 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 13 November 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com; Vladimir Radyuhin, "Russia offers India floating n-plants," Hindu, 20 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 November 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

27 November 2003
The British government's Chief Scientific Advisor David Anthony King says that India could participate as a junior partner in the $18.7 billion international fusion energy research (ITER) project that aims to build a fusion reactor by the middle of the 21^st century. King says that China, the United States, South Korea, Russia, the European Union, Canada and Japan are already on board. The design of the research reactor is ready and four construction sites for building the reactor are under consideration. India could participate by contributing in a $500 million project that involved materials research for the fusion program.
--"India can help implement reactor project," Hindu, 27 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 November 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

7 December 2003
India's federal government is reportedly drawing plans to train paramilitary forces such as the Indo-Tibetan border police and the Central Industrial Security Force to deal with nuclear, chemical, and biological disasters. Training courses will begin in January 2004. The first course will be for trainers who in turn will impart training to their peers. Experts from the United States will be involved in teaching the first "trainer's courses."
--"India to train paramilitary forces to deal with nuclear, chemical disaster," BBC, 7 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 7 December 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

7 December 2003
The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) is considering the feasibility of adding four more 1,000 MW nuclear power reactors at Koodankulam in addition to the two 1,000 MW reactors already under construction with Russian assistance. In addition, the NPCIL is also considering the feasibility of building an additional six 1,000 MW nuclear power reactors with French assistance. NPCIL's goal is to add 800 MW of nuclear power annually so that India can generate 10,000 MW of nuclear power annually by 2011.
--"Koodankulam to have 4 more reactors," Global News Wire, 7 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 10 December 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

11 December 2003
Israel's Defense Ministry declines to comment on reports in the Hindu and Jerusalem Post that Israel will cooperate with India in the development of the latter's nuclear submarine or Advanced Technology Vessel. An Indian defense delegation visited Israel in November to discuss areas of cooperation. Israeli Defense Ministry spokesperson Rachel Niedak-Ashkenazi says that the "Ministry of Defense does not divulge information regarding its connections with foreign countries." Similarly the Indian embassy in Tel Aviv declines to comment on the issue and states, "As a matter of policy, we don't make any comments on any individual defense deals,"
--Arieh O'Sullivan, "Israel offers to help India with nuclear sub project," Jerusalem Post, 11 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 December 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

15 December 2003
India is negotiating the export of 30-tons of heavy water to China. The heavy water will be used in China's pressurized heavy water reactors. India's Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Dr. Anil Kakodkar explains, the heavy water exported will involve end-user certification so that it is only used for the purposes for which it was purchased. However Kakodkar cautions, "DAE [Department of Atomic Energy] is still in the process of negotiations and the contract is yet to be signed."
--"China is set to import heavy water from India," Asia Pulse, 15 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 December 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com.

	Updated October 2005