India’s Reaction to China’s 1964 Nuclear Explosion

　　ABSTRACT: From 1964 to 1968, following China’s successful nuclear test, there were many discussions in India around nuclear policy choice. From 1964 to 1966, a debate which focused on whether India should develop nuclear weapons ultimately concluded that India should maintain the right to develop nuclear explosive devices for peaceful use. From 1964 to 1967, the Indian government also explored the possibility of one of the great powers providing it with a nuclear umbrella, but was unable to find a satisfactory arrangement. From 1967 to 1968, the nuclear policy debate in India shifted to focus on the core issue of whether India should sign the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty. After several rounds of discussions, India resolved to reject the treaty.