India should publicise nuclear safety norms to allay int'l

Despite having robust nuclear safety and security norms, India's reluctance to highlight these have resulted in international concerns which equate the lack of transparency with poor procedures and standards, says a report here.
The report, 'Nuclear Security in India', prepared by Rajeshwari Pillai Rajagopalan for Observer Research Foundation, also states that although the security set-up for nuclear facilities in the country is fairly strong, it can be improved by learning the best practises of other countries.
"India's security measures are fairly robust, but it needs to be proactive in publicising its achievements. Indian reticence in this regard is particularly surprising considering that India has a strong case to make. The Indian nuclear establishment had developed robust safety and security norms much before the issues became an international concern in the post 9/11 period.

"Sadly, Indian reluctance to highlight these aspects has resulted in international concerns, which equate this lack of transparency with poor procedures and weak standards," the report states.
The lack of transparency prompts assumptions that the country's nuclear safety and security measures were below par, which is far from true, the report adds.
It also recommends that a separate force be set up for the protection of nuclear installations, on the lines of what is practised in the UK.
"While CISF, which currently handles the task of guarding the nuclear facilities, has done a good job so far, its mandate is vast.

"Instead of CISF, India should establish a separate police force, similar to that of UK's CNC, whose responsibility is to only protect nuclear materials and facilities," the report adds.