This refers to the editorial, “Entry to Big Boys club” (June 9). Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US has been significant one. His sole thrust this time around has been on defence cooperation with the US to expand India's defence horizons worldwide. India's imminent entry into the Missile Technology Control Regime has been the most important gain, but there is little doubt that Modi has firmly set his eyes on accruing India the membership of the 48-member coveted Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
An entry into the NSG will boost India's arms export and broaden its defence strategy. It will also thwart the obstructionist attitude of China which has always been a thorn in the flesh in India's plans. India's NSG membership will allow the US to use India's key military bases which can be mutually beneficial. The long-standing impasse on civil nuclear cooperation between New Delhi-Washington can receive a major fillip through India's new found defence security confidence.