Washington, 8 December – The new US National Defence Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2026 has assigned India a significant role in the Indo-Pacific region and nuclear policy. The bill states that the United States will engage in ongoing dialogue with India regarding its nuclear liability policy and include India among select countries collaborating on new defence arrangements to counter China’s challenges.
US congressional leaders have released a joint draft of the NDAA, which emphasises India’s strategic importance in several areas such as civil nuclear cooperation, defence co-production, and maritime security. This legislation, passed annually for over six decades, is expected to be approved by the House by the end of this week.
A key provision mandates the establishment of a joint consultative mechanism between the US and India. This body will regularly review the implementation of the 2008 civil nuclear agreement, discuss aligning India’s domestic nuclear liability rules with international standards, and develop strategies for bilateral and multilateral diplomatic engagement on these issues.
The US Congress will receive annual reports for five years on the progress of these reviews.
Another section of the bill recognises India as a “partner country” in global civil nuclear cooperation. The law also calls for a 10-year strategy to expand US nuclear exports while analysing competition from Russia and China.
Regarding the Indo-Pacific, India is listed among primary partners alongside Australia, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, and New Zealand. Collaborative efforts will advance in defence industries, supply chains, and emerging technologies.
The US Secretary of Defence will have the authority to negotiate agreements, provide expert assistance, and connect industry and academic institutions to promote joint production and development.
The legislation further encourages the US to deepen engagement with India, including through the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), to keep the Indo-Pacific region free and open. This involves military exercises, defence trade, humanitarian aid, and maritime security. The US will also enhance its regional presence and partnerships to counter China.
The bill approves appointing a special envoy for the Indian Ocean region, tasked with coordinating US diplomacy and formulating strategies to balance China’s influence.
These measures clearly indicate that India is no longer just a beneficiary of US regional strategy but a crucial partner. Defence ties between India and the US have grown considerably stronger in recent years.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
