US Lifts Sanctions on Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and Two Indian Entities
Washington – Just days before the presidential transition to Donald Trump, the Biden administration announced the removal of long-standing sanctions on three Indian entities: the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), and Indian Rare Earths. This move marks a significant step in bolstering bilateral ties and advancing shared energy and technology goals.
The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) under the US Department of Commerce stated on Wednesday that lifting these Cold War-era sanctions would facilitate collaborative research and development, enhance science and technology cooperation, and further mutual energy security objectives in alignment with US foreign policy interests.
Enhanced Energy Cooperation
The BIS highlighted that the removal of these restrictions paves the way for advanced energy collaboration between the two nations, reducing barriers that have historically hindered progress.
“The US and India have demonstrated a strong commitment to peaceful nuclear cooperation and the advancement of science and technology, benefiting both nations and their global partners,” BIS noted in its statement.
Action on China's Entities
Simultaneously, BIS added 11 Chinese entities to its "Entity List" for activities deemed contrary to US national security and foreign policy interests. This list, maintained by the US Commerce Department, controls trade with organizations considered security risks.
Alan F. Estevez, Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security, commented, “The Entity List is a powerful tool. Through these actions, we send a clear message about the consequences of supporting China’s military modernization while encouraging collaboration with the US to achieve shared foreign policy objectives.”
Implications for India-US Partnership
Matthew Borman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Export Administration, emphasized that lifting the sanctions on the three Indian entities aligns with the broader strategic vision of the US-India partnership.
“This action strengthens the cooperation needed to secure critical minerals and clean energy supply chains, reflecting the ambition and strategic direction of the US-India relationship,” Borman said.
Reception and Future Impact
India’s former Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, welcomed the decision, calling it a testament to the deepening partnership between the two nations. He noted that this development would significantly contribute to advancing energy and technological collaboration.
The BIS stated that these actions symbolize the United States’ dual approach—imposing consequences on activities supporting China’s military advancements while incentivizing closer ties with nations like India that share its foreign policy goals.
This decision underscores the strategic alignment and growing trust between Washington and New Delhi, signaling new opportunities for collaboration in energy security and scientific innovation.
