In South Asia, nuclear weapons are possessed only by two countries:
1. India:
- India conducted its first successful nuclear test in 1974, called “Smiling Buddha.”
- It has developed both nuclear warheads and missile delivery systems.
- India’s nuclear weapons are maintained under its policy of “No First Use” (NFU) and for defensive deterrence.
2. Pakistan:
- Pakistan carried out its first nuclear tests in May 1998, shortly after India’s tests.
- It has developed nuclear missiles and warheads as part of its defense strategy.
- Pakistan maintains its nuclear arsenal mainly as a deterrent against India.
Conclusion:
Thus, the two countries of South Asia that have nuclear weapons are India and Pakistan.