Q.6 What benefits India might have gained by joining Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)? Highlight possible impacts it may have upon strategic stability in South Asia. 2018

The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) is an informal and voluntary association of countries that aims to limit the proliferation of ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles capable of carrying a payload of 500 kg or more for more than 300 km. India joined the MTCR in 2016, which brought several benefits to the country. The following are some of the benefits India might have gained by joining the MTCR:

1. Access to advanced missile technology: India’s membership in the MTCR has given it access to advanced missile technology from other member states. This has allowed India to improve its own missile capabilities, particularly in terms of range and accuracy.
2. Increased legitimacy: India’s membership in the MTCR has increased its legitimacy as a responsible nuclear power and demonstrated its commitment to non-proliferation efforts.
3. Improved international relations: Joining the MTCR has helped improve India’s international relations, particularly with the United States, which has been a strong supporter of India’s inclusion in the regime.

However, India’s membership in the MTCR may also have potential impacts on strategic stability in South Asia. The following are some possible impacts:

1. Increase in India’s missile capabilities: India’s access to advanced missile technology through the MTCR may lead to an increase in India’s missile capabilities. This could potentially increase India’s strategic advantage over its neighbors and lead to a regional arms race.
2. China’s response: China is not a member of the MTCR, and India’s membership may be viewed as a threat by China, potentially leading to an increase in tensions between the two countries.
3. Pakistan’s response: Pakistan, which is also not a member of the MTCR, may view India’s membership as a threat and respond by increasing its own missile capabilities, potentially leading to a regional arms race.

In conclusion, India’s membership in the MTCR has brought several benefits to the country, including access to advanced missile technology, increased legitimacy, and improved international relations. However, it may also have potential impacts on strategic stability in South Asia, particularly in terms of regional arms race and increased tensions with China and Pakistan.