Vajpayee's Bold Nuclear Test: How India Shook the World in 1998

• On May 11, 1998, India conducted nuclear tests at Pokhran under PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, defying global pressure and asserting self-respect.
• Former PM Narasimha Rao advised Vajpayee, "The material is ready, proceed," indicating prior preparations for the nuclear program.
• 'Operation Shakti' involved elaborate deception, with scientists like Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (code name 'Major General Prithviraj') wearing army uniforms to evade spy satellites.
• The tests, conducted on Buddha Purnima, declared India a nuclear weapon state, providing 'nuclear deterrence' and transforming its global image.
• India now celebrates 'National Technology Day' on May 11, commemorating this scientific achievement and political will.

Why It Matters: Vajpayee's 1998 nuclear tests, 'Operation Shakti', established India as a global nuclear power.