Date:15/01/2004 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2004/01/15/stories/2004011507261300.htm

National

Pokhran blasts were for self-defence: PM

BHUJ, JAN.14. T he Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, today said that the Pokhran nuclear tests were done only for ``self-defence.''

``When we conducted these tests, the world thought that India will unleash devastation. When our neighbour (Pakistan) did the same, this belief became even stronger'', he said.

``There is a difference between us and our neighbour. Self-defence is important to us as also economic progress,'' Mr. Vajpayee said.

The Prime Minister said the country, riding on the strength of the military and the talent of the youth, is a formidable player in the global economy.

Asking Gujarat to expedite its pace of development, he assured all possible assistance from the Centre.

— PTI