India received recognition as the most advanced nation in nuclear fuel cycle technology at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) meet and there was greater awareness of the “larger role” of nuclear power in meeting global energy needs, said Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Anil Kakodkar on Sunday. Kakodkar, who attended the UN atomic watchdog’s 51st General Conference, remained mum on whether there were any discussions with the IAEA on the India-specific safeguards agreement, a pre-requisite for the operationalisation of the Indo-US civil nuclear deal. “I will not say anything on that,” Kakodkar said shortly before his departure when asked about his informal discussions with IAEA Director General Mohammed ElBaradei. India also has to secure changes in the guidelines of the Nuclear Suppliers’ Group (NSG) to gain access to nuclear commerce. He also described the meet as “successful”.
