India and Pakistan Exchange Lists of Nuclear Installations

On 1st January, 2022, India and Pakistan exchanged lists of their nuclear installations and prisoners. The exchange of the lists comes amid strain in relations between the two countries over the Kashmir issue as well as cross-border terrorism.

Background

• The lists of nuclear installation and facilities are exchanged as per the provisions of Article-II of the Agreement on Prohibition of Attacks against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, signed in 1988 and ratified in 1991.
• This practice of exchanging lists has continued since January 1, 1992.

Key Highlights

• Provision: The nuclear installations and facilities cannot be attacked in case of an escalation in hostilities between the two countries.
• Coverage: The term ‘nuclear installations and facilities’ includes nuclear power and research reactors, fuel fabrication, uranium enrichment, isotopes separation and reprocessing facilities, as well as any other installations with fresh or irradiated nuclear fuel and materials in any form and establishments storing significant quantities of radioactive materials.
• List of Prisoners: The two countries also exchanged lists of prisoners held in each other’s prisons, which include civilians, defence personnel and fishermen.
• Agreement: These lists are exchanged under the provisions of the Agreement on Consular Access signed in May 2008.
• Under this pact, the two countries should exchange comprehensive lists on January 1 and July 1 every year.