On May 18, 2025, the Congress party marked the 51st anniversary of India's first nuclear test, paying rich tributes to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the scientists who made the milestone possible. The nuclear test, conducted at Pokhran in Rajasthan on May 18, 1974, was code-named Operation Smiling Buddha, and marked India’s entry into the exclusive club of nuclear-capable nations.

Describing it as a watershed moment in India's scientific and strategic journey, Congress leaders emphasised the bold and visionary leadership of Indira Gandhi, who was the Prime Minister at the time. The test made India the sixth country in the world to carry out a nuclear detonation and established the nation as a credible scientific power on the global stage.

Congress leadership hails Indira Gandhi and Indian scientists

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, in a post on X, stated that the event remains a proud moment in India’s history, demonstrating the strength and resolve of its leadership and scientific community.

51 years ago, India conducted its first nuclear test and became the sixth nuclear nation, he said. Our scientists and researchers achieved this extraordinary feat through their ingenuity and dedication. We are deeply grateful to them, he added.

Mr Kharge also praised Indira Gandhi’s decisive leadership, stating that she demonstrated remarkable courage even in the face of global adversity. Her dynamic leadership continues to inspire generations, he noted.

Rahul Gandhi echoes legacy and strategic vision

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, took to Facebook to reflect on the significance of the day. He wrote that under the visionary and decisive leadership of Indira Gandhi, India was able to carry out Operation Smiling Buddha at Pokhran in 1974.

My sincere gratitude to the brilliant scientists and researchers whose dedication made this possible, Rahul said in his message. He added that their legacy lives on, continuing to inspire technological innovation and efforts to strengthen India’s strategic capabilities.

His remarks emphasised the continued relevance of that scientific achievement in shaping India’s defence and technological roadmap.

Congress social media tribute highlights historical pride

In an official post on X, the Congress party described May 18, 1974, as a proud day for India. The post stated that India successfully conducted its first nuclear test through Smiling Buddha, under the strong leadership of Indira Gandhi.

This test became a symbol of the country’s scientific capability and strong political leadership, the post read.

The party reiterated that Operation Smiling Buddha was not only a triumph of Indian science but also a testament to fearless leadership during a politically sensitive time. In the 1970s, India faced global pressure and isolation due to its nuclear ambitions, yet the decision to proceed with the test underscored Indira Gandhi’s commitment to India’s sovereignty and strategic independence.

Operation Smiling Buddha and its significance

The nuclear test conducted at the Pokhran Test Range in Rajasthan’s Thar Desert involved a fusion bomb with a yield estimated at 8 to 12 kilotons. It was developed by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) under the leadership of scientist Dr Raja Ramanna. The test was carried out in utmost secrecy and shocked the global nuclear order, drawing immediate attention from world powers.

The operation was code-named Smiling Buddha because the test was conducted on Buddha Purnima, a major festival in India. Though India maintained that the test was for peaceful purposes, it sent a powerful message about the country’s technological self-reliance and security priorities.

Following the test, India faced sanctions and restrictions, particularly from the United States and other Western countries. Despite this, the success laid the foundation for India’s long-term nuclear doctrine, which eventually led to the formalisation of its nuclear weapons program and subsequent tests in 1998 under the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.

Indira Gandhi’s enduring legacy

The Congress has long upheld Indira Gandhi’s role in making bold national security decisions. Her leadership during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, the 1974 nuclear test, and other critical moments have formed the core narrative of her political legacy.

On the 51st anniversary of the Pokhran test, the party used the occasion to highlight her strategic foresight and political courage, especially at a time when India lacked many international allies in the defence and nuclear sphere.

Her decision to authorise the nuclear test despite diplomatic and geopolitical risks was viewed as a bold assertion of Indian sovereignty. Over the years, it has been celebrated by political leaders, scientists, and military experts alike as a turning point in India’s strategic evolution.

Scientists remembered for their contributions

While Indira Gandhi’s leadership was a central theme in Congress’ tributes, party leaders also acknowledged the immense efforts of Indian scientists and researchers. The success of Operation Smiling Buddha was made possible through the work of scientists from BARC, the Department of Atomic Energy, and the Indian Army.

Dr Homi Sethna, Dr P K Iyengar, Dr Basanti Dulal Nag Chaudhuri, and others played pivotal roles in designing and executing the test. Their efforts were not just scientific achievements but also symbolic assertions of India's self-reliant capability in nuclear science and defence.

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