In a major development, the United States has removed restrictions on three key Indian nuclear entities: Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Centre (IGCAR), and Indian Rare Earths (IRE), according to the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS).

This decision follows an announcement by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, who recently stated that the US would ease barriers to facilitate civil nuclear partnerships between Indian and American firms.

The move, seen as a step towards implementing the India-US civil nuclear agreement signed 16 years ago, aligns with the shared energy security goals of both nations. BIS emphasised that the removal of these entities will foster cooperation in advanced energy research, critical minerals, and clean energy supply chains.

The landmark civil nuclear agreement, initiated in 2005 during talks between then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and US President George W. Bush, has faced delays in full implementation. The Biden administration has now taken decisive steps to realize this vision, with Sullivan calling it a ""next major step"" in strengthening the India-US strategic partnership.

The removal of these restrictions is expected to enhance joint research, technology collaboration, and energy security efforts between the two nations.

[ET]