With a view to strengthen the framework in fighting the threat of terrorists stealing nuclear material, the government on Friday approved the ratification of the Amendment to the Convention of Physical Protection of Nuclear Material, 1980 (CPPNM) and the Extradition Act 1962.

“Becoming a party to the Convention would strengthen the international legal framework to combat terrorism. It would also enhance international cooperation in investigation, prosecution and extradition of those who commit terrorist acts and acts of sabotage involving radioactive material or nuclear devices and facilities,” Information and Broadcasting Minister P R Dasmunsi said after the Union Cabinet cleared the ratification.

The amendment to CPPNM will make it legally binding for states, who are signatory, to protect nuclear facilities and material, their storage as well as transport.

“It will also provide for expanded cooperation between and amongst states regarding rapid measures to locate and recover stolen or smuggled nuclear material, mitigate any radiological consequences of sabotage and prevent and combat related offences,” Mr Dasmunshi said after the Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

The amended CPPNM will make it legally binding for the states to protect nuclear facilities and material in peaceful domestic use, storage as well as transport, he said.

Tribal University

In another important decision, the Cabinet gave its approval for establishment of Indira Gandhi National Tribal University in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh with the Centre funding.

The Indira Gandhi National Tribal University Bill, 2007, which would pave the way for setting up the university, would be introduced in the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Mr Dasmunsi said.

“This would ensure establishment of a teaching and affiliating university for facilitating and promoting avenues of higher education and research facilities for the tribal population of the country,” he said.

 The objects of the university include promoting studies and research in tribal art, culture, tradition, language, custom, medicinal systems, forest-based economic activities, including special studies in the flora and fauna, and advancements in technologies relating to natural resources of the tribal areas.

Apart from affiliating colleges, the university will have the power to establish its own regional centres in tribal areas.