UPSC CSE Prelims
India–Russia Relations Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 2 — Russia

India signed the 'Action Plan for Prioritization and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field' with Russia to strengthen bilateral cooperation in civil nuclear energy. Russia has been a key strategic partner in India's nuclear energy sector, particularly through Rosatom's involvement in constructing the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP) in Tamil Nadu. This agreement aims to enhance collaboration in nuclear fuel cycle management, construction of nuclear power projects, and advanced research in nuclear science and technology.

📝 Short Notes: India-Russia Nuclear Cooperation

• Strategic Partnership: India and Russia share a long-standing strategic partnership in civil nuclear cooperation since the Soviet era.
• Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP): Located in Tamil Nadu, built with Russian assistance through Rosatom; Units 1 and 2 are operational, and additional units are under construction.
• Nuclear Fuel Supply: Russia provides assured nuclear fuel supply to India's reactors, including those under IAEA safeguards.
• Technology Transfer: Cooperation includes technology transfer for fast breeder reactors and nuclear fuel cycle management.
• Other Nuclear Partners: India has civil nuclear agreements with the USA (123 Agreement, 2008), France, Japan, Canada, and the UK, but Russia remains the most active operational partner.