India’s nuclearization process: Pokhran I and II

India’s nuclear policy has evolved gradually rather than dramatically, India became a nuclear weapon state after testing five nuclear device in 1998. The self-imposed restraint for 24 years, after having demonstrated nuclear capability in 1974, is unique in the world. Various factors influenced India’s pursuit of a nuclear development programme. Ultimately it was concern of national security that played the critical role in turning it to a military oriented project. In particular, security dilemma involving itself, China, and Pakistan. Based on in-depth historical process-tracing studies this paper is an attempt to explain changing contour of India’s nuclear policy and postures and analyses the factors that led it down the road to Pokhran I and II.