A second nuclear age? Nuclear weapons and strategy in South Asia

South Asia became a primary focus for the debate about nuclear proliferatio n after the nuclear tests carried out by India and Pakistan in 1998. This a rticle seeks to analyse Indian nuclear policy by relating her nuclear progr amme to the perceived threat from two neighbours: Pakistan and China. But a n analysis of India's nuclear policy may also look into the more subtle mot ives among Indian elites, such as the need for scientific self-assertion an d the strong dislike of treaties biased in favour of established nuclear po wers and former colonial powers. Finally, the article will take a brief loo k at the strategic development in the region and at the prospects for non-p roliferation and disarmament in Asia.