In 1974 Estimate, CIA finds India a responsible nuclear weapons state
In the wake of the Indian “peaceful nuclear explosion” on May 17, 1974 and growing concern about the spread of nuclear weapons capabilities, the U.S. intelligence community prepared a Special National Intelligence Assessment, “Prospects for Further Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.” It was de-classified by the U.S. National Security Archive on 14th January, 2008.
The 1974 Indian test created shock waves in the U.S. government, not only because of its broader implications, but because the intelligence community had failed to detect that it was imminent.
It says that India is unlikely to proliferate as a matter of national policy. But it also says India might be susceptible to the gains of nuclear trade and political advantages.
West Germany, Canada, Sweden and Italy were better poised to make a nuclear weapon, but will not be influenced by weapons acquisition by India.
Countries like Republic of China (Taiwan), Argentina and South Africa have been mentioned who would be more influence by the Indian decision.
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