How the membership to MTCR is beneficial for India

India has officially joined the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) as a full member, three days after its failed NSG bid. So, now India is the 35th member of MTCR since 2016. So, let's understand what MTCR is and how is it beneficial for India.

What is MTCR

MTCR is an informal political understanding among 35 member states that seek to limit the proliferation of missiles and missile technology. It controls the export of the technologies and materials involved in ballistic missile systems and unmanned aerial vehicles. And particularly which are capable of carrying nuclear warheads of above 500kg payload for more than 300 km. The regime was formed in 1987 by the G-7 industrialized countries.

How MTCR it is going to benefit India

• India has been deprived of the cryogenic technology by many countries. ISRO will now have access to restricted high-end technologies for developing its cryogenic engines in order to enhance space exploration.
• And also, India can sell its missiles to other non-member countries with comparative ease.eg. Supersonic cruise missile, “BrahMos”, to Vietnam. This is also going to boost 'Make in India'.

• India will now be able to buy surveillance drones America like the Avenger done and other UAVs. These are going to be a key in counter terrorism.
• It will make its position as a responsible nuclear state. And thus will increase the chances of membership to the 48-member NSG (Nuclear Suppliers Group).
• And above all, China which opposes India's membership to the NSG is not its member. So, we can say it as India's step ahead of China.
• Lastly, as now India is a part of the MTCR (missile technology control regime), India and Russia are now planning to develop the new generation BrahMos missile having a range of upto 800 km.

So membership to such groups is very beneficial for the Indian defence and the economy. And in future, India should keep pushing for entry in NSG as well.