New Delhi- The longstanding tension between India and Pakistan continues to be a topic of global concern. Recent events like Operation Sindoor and recurring ceasefire violations have further escalated the strain between the two nations. In this context, a historic event from 51 years ago comes to mind—India’s first nuclear test on 18 May 1974 at the Pokhran Test Range in Rajasthan, codenamed Operation Smiling Buddha.

This landmark achievement not only established India as a nuclear power on the global stage but also significantly bolstered its defense capabilities. This article delves into the details of Operation Smiling Buddha, its significance, its connection to Buddha Purnima, and how it elevated India’s prominence in defense.

Why Buddha Purnima Day Chosen for the Test?

The test was conducted on 18 May 1974, which was Buddha Purnima, a sacred day commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and nirvana of Lord Gautam Buddha, symbolizing peace, non-violence, and compassion. Naming the operation Smiling Buddha and choosing this day were strategic decisions to project India’s nuclear program as peaceful and defensive, aligning with the nation’s cultural and spiritual heritage. This symbolism aimed to convey to the global community that India’s intentions were rooted in peace, despite the military implications of the test.

Background of Operation Smiling Buddha

India’s nuclear program began in 1944 under the leadership of Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha, widely regarded as the father of Indian nuclear science. In 1948, the Indian Atomic Energy Commission (IAEC) was established to develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. The 1960s brought significant geopolitical challenges, including the 1962 India-China War, the 1965 India-Pakistan War, and China’s nuclear test in 1964, which prompted India to prioritize the development of nuclear capabilities for national security. In 1972, then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi authorized the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) to conduct a nuclear test, laying the groundwork for Operation Smiling Buddha.

Details of the Nuclear Test

• Date: 18 May 1974, coinciding with Buddha Purnima.

• Location: Pokhran Test Range, Rajasthan.

• Time: 8:05 AM IST.

• Yield: 8-12 kilotons.

• Device: Implosion-type plutonium bomb, similar to the “Fat Man” bomb used in Nagasaki.

• Leadership: Spearheaded by BARC Director Dr. Raja Ramanna, Dr. P.K. Iyengar, and Dr. Homi Sethna.

The operation was conducted with utmost secrecy, involving only a select team of 75 scientists and officials. Upon its success, Dr. Raja Ramanna called Indira Gandhi and delivered the coded message, “The Buddha has smiled.” India presented the test as a Peaceful Nuclear Explosion (PNE), intended for civilian applications like mining and canal construction, though it was widely recognized as a demonstration of military capability.

Pokhran Test and India’s Defense Prominence

The nuclear test on 18 May 1974 at Pokhran marked India’s emergence as the sixth nuclear power globally, outside the five permanent members of the UN Security Council (USA, USSR, UK, France, and China). This achievement had profound implications for India’s defense strategy:

1. Strategic Deterrence: The test provided India with a credible nuclear deterrent, strengthening its position against potential threats from Pakistan and China.

2. Regional Balance: It altered the power dynamics in South Asia, prompting Pakistan to accelerate its nuclear program, culminating in its tests in 1998.

3. Global Recognition: The test elevated India’s stature as an emerging global power, enhancing its diplomatic and defense standing.

4. Indigenous Capability: Conducted entirely with homegrown technology, it showcased India’s scientific and technological self-reliance.

The success of Operation Smiling Buddha paved the way for Pokhran-II in 1998, which further solidified India’s status as a nuclear-weapon state. These tests established India as a key player in global defense, with a robust nuclear arsenal to ensure national security.

Challenges and Reactions

The test drew sharp criticism from countries like the USA and Canada, which imposed technological and economic sanctions on India, citing concerns over nuclear proliferation. India, however, refused to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), maintaining its sovereign stance.

The test spurred Pakistan to develop its nuclear capabilities, leading to its tests in 1998 and intensifying the nuclear arms race in South Asia.

The achievement ignited a wave of national pride, significantly boosting Indira Gandhi’s popularity and reinforcing India’s self-confidence. However, India faced restrictions on nuclear fuel and technology transfers, impacting its nuclear program and economy.

Despite India’s assertion of a peaceful intent, many nations viewed the test as a step toward militarization, questioning its motives. There were apprehensions about radioactive fallout in the Pokhran region, though India denied any significant impact.