Explain India’s nuclear doctrine.

India's nuclear doctrine is guided by the principles of credible minimum deterrence and a "no-first-use" (NFU) policy. Adopted in the late 1990s, the doctrine outlines the country's approach to nuclear weapons and their potential use.

Credible Minimum Deterrence: India's nuclear posture is based on maintaining a credible minimum deterrent, emphasizing the need for a sufficiently effective nuclear force to deter potential adversaries from initiating a nuclear attack. This approach underscores a commitment to possessing a deterrent force without pursuing an arms race.

No-First-Use (NFU) Policy: India's nuclear doctrine declares a "no-first-use" policy, stating that it will not be the first to use nuclear weapons in a conflict. However, it emphasizes the need for a strong retaliatory response to any nuclear aggression, ensuring that the consequences for an adversary using nuclear weapons against India would be severe.

This doctrine aims to provide strategic stability in the region, prevent nuclear coercion, and maintain a defensive posture in the face of potential threats, aligning with India's broader commitment to global nuclear disarmament efforts.