Multilateral Export Control Regimes Video Lecture | Science & Technology for UPSC CSE

Ans. Multilateral export control regimes are international agreements or arrangements between countries to regulate and control the export of specific goods and technologies that have the potential to contribute to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction or support terrorism. These regimes aim to prevent the spread of sensitive technologies and ensure that exports are used for legitimate purposes.

Ans. The major multilateral export control regimes are: 1. Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG): It aims to prevent nuclear proliferation by controlling the export of nuclear materials, equipment, and technology. 2. Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR): It aims to limit the spread of ballistic missiles and other unmanned delivery systems capable of delivering weapons of mass destruction. 3. Australia Group (AG): It seeks to prevent the proliferation of chemical and biological weapons by controlling the export of dual-use chemicals, biological agents, and related equipment. 4. Wassenaar Arrangement (WA): It focuses on conventional arms and dual-use goods and technologies, including those related to weapons of mass destruction. 5. The Zangger Committee: It regulates the export of nuclear-related materials and technologies based on the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

Ans. Multilateral export control regimes contribute to global security by establishing guidelines and mechanisms to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and related technologies. These regimes facilitate cooperation among participating countries to ensure strict control over the export of sensitive goods and technologies. By regulating the transfer of such items, these regimes help in curbing the development of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons, as well as ballistic missile programs. They promote peace, stability, and non-proliferation efforts at the international level.

Ans. Multilateral export control regimes can have an impact on international trade as they impose restrictions on the export of certain goods and technologies. Exporters need to comply with the regulations and licensing requirements set by these regimes, which may involve additional paperwork, scrutiny, and delays in obtaining necessary approvals. However, these regimes also provide a framework for transparency and predictability in trade, as participating countries adhere to common standards and guidelines. The regimes aim to strike a balance between non-proliferation objectives and facilitating legitimate trade.

Ans. India is not a member of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) but has expressed its desire to join the group. It is a member of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) since 2016 and the Wassenaar Arrangement (WA) since 2017. India has also been engaged with the Australia Group (AG) and has participated in its meetings as an observer. India's participation in these regimes demonstrates its commitment to non-proliferation efforts and responsible export controls. India's inclusion in these regimes would enhance its credibility and facilitate closer cooperation on global non-proliferation efforts.