India imposes ban on nuclear trade with Iran

India has imposed a ban on the "direct or indirect" export of all items that could contribute to Iran's nuclear fuel enrichment-related, reprocessing or heavy water-related activities as well as development of nuclear weapon delivery systems.

This is in "compliance" with United Nations Security Council resolutions.

In a notification, the Director-General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) stated, "Direct or indirect export and import of all items, materials, equipment, goods and technology which could contribute to Iran's [nuclear fuel] enrichment-related, reprocessing or heavy water related activities, or to the development of nuclear weapon delivery systems, as mentioned below whether or not originating in Iran, to/from Iran is prohibited."

Tuesday's notification, posted on the DGFT website, makes the required amendments in the country's foreign trade policy (2004-2009) so that India is seen to be complying with the measures taken by the Security Council against Iran.

India, it appears, is adopting a two-pronged approach towards the Iranian nuclear issue — a recent visit by External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee to Tehran signalled India's desire to keep dialogue channels open — at the same time New Delhi wants to be seen complying with Western views on tackling Iran.

Given that the civilian nuclear deal between India and the United States is yet to cross the final hurdles, New Delhi would like to ensure that Washington does not doubt its non-proliferation credentials when it comes to Iran.