Class XII, ENGLISH, Essay, "Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT)"

Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT)

As we enter into the new millennium, we find that man has taken great strides on the path of scientific and technological advancements. We have harnessed all the resources of nature and made their maximum utilization for the benefit of human race. God has gifted man with various natural resources but it is up to us whether we use them for the welfare or destruction of mankind. Nuclear energy is one of such things that can lead us to the zenith of success and glory in the service of the suffering humanity or plunge us into the abyss of total annihilation.

In order to stop the horrific destruction caused by the explosions of atom bombs, the UN General Assembly adopted a treaty entitled Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) on 10th September 1996. It is yet to be signed by forty-four states after fives years, which include the seven nuclear capable states. It is indeed amazing to know that the United States and the other Western nuclear powers are bitter opponents of CTBT, while they enforce it on other nations of the world. Having conducted 715 out of 1030 known nuclear tests and exercising nuclear option, Washington was instrumental in having the NPT extended unconditionally and indefinitely all over the world.

Nuclear energy can be put to both constructive and destructive use. As we cast over eyes on the bitter and realistic side of the picture, we cannot help coming to the conclusion that nuclear weapons are monsters of death and destruction. The greatest danger from the misuse of nuclear energy lies in the possible temptation of a nation possessing it to employ it against another that does not. The scale of destruction by a nuclear weapon would make any normal political or governmental control virtually impossible. Looking at the other side, we find that nuclear energy can also be used for peaceful, constructive purposes. Radioactive by-products are used for treatment of various diseases. It can also help in producing electricity, which can be of great assistance in various projects. Hydroelectric power project can also make use of this energy, and thus add to the comfort of mankind. Nuclear energy can convert barren deserts into blooming fields, a stark requirement in these days of food shortages. It can help in banishing disease, taming turbulent rivers and making life more beautiful and happier.

The seven nations that possess nuclear energy must realize that nuclear weapons are not merely deadly weapons but are of a completely new nature. A part from the horrific destruction caused by their explosions, they can contaminate whole areas of the earth by radioactivity, which may last for even thousands of years.
The best solution lies in the fact that the countries possessing nuclear energy use it as a deterrent against war, and at the same time, explore possibilities for using it for the welfare of human race. A meaning full treaty should make linked to global disarmament, irrespective the nature of weapons. The use of nuclear weapons should be prohibited because the only hope of mankind’s survival is to abandon all these utterly destructive weapons for all time.