Continuing a long-standing confidence-building measure, India and Pakistan exchanged lists of their nuclear installations and facilities on January 1, 2026. The exchange took place despite strained bilateral relations following four days of military hostilities in May last year.
The annual practice aims to ensure transparency and reduce risks between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
India–Pakistan Continue Nuclear Confidence-Building Measures in 2026
Background of the Nuclear Installations Pact
The exchange was carried out under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attacks against Nuclear Installations and Facilities, which was signed on 31 December 1988. The agreement came into force on 27 January 1991.
Under the pact:
- Both countries commit not to attack each other’s nuclear facilities
- Lists of covered installations must be exchanged every year on January 1
This mechanism has been followed uninterruptedly for over three decades.
Details of the Annual Exchange
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the list of nuclear installations was handed over to a representative of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad through diplomatic channels.
At the same time, India shared its list with Pakistani officials in New Delhi, fully adhering to the provisions of the agreement.
Exchange of Prisoners’ Lists
Along with the nuclear installations list, India and Pakistan also exchanged lists of prisoners under the Consular Access Agreement signed on 21 May 2008.
Details shared by Pakistan:
- 257 Indian prisoners
- 199 fishermen
- 58 other civilians
India also provided a corresponding list of Pakistani prisoners lodged in Indian custody.
Significance Amid Strained Bilateral Ties
The exchange is significant as it reflects continued adherence to institutionalised confidence-building measures despite frozen diplomatic relations. Such agreements help maintain a minimum level of transparency and reduce the risk of misunderstandings between the two countries.
Exam-Oriented Key Facts
- India–Pakistan nuclear installations agreement signed in 1988
- Agreement came into force in January 1991
- Nuclear facilities lists are exchanged annually on January 1
- Prisoners’ lists are exchanged twice a year (January and July)
- The practice has continued for over 30 years
Question & Answer
Q1. India and Pakistan exchange lists of nuclear installations under an agreement signed in which year?
(a) 1972
(b) 1985
(c) 1988
(d) 1991
Answer: 1988
Q2. On which date do India and Pakistan exchange their lists of nuclear installations every year?
(a) January 26
(b) January 1
(c) August 15
(d) December 31
Answer: January 1
Q3. The Agreement on the Prohibition of Attacks against Nuclear Installations came into force in which year?
(a) 1989
(b) 1990
(c) 1991
(d) 1992
Answer: 1991
Q4. Under which agreement are prisoners’ lists exchanged between India and Pakistan?
(a) Shimla Agreement
(b) Lahore Declaration
(c) Consular Access Agreement
(d) Indus Waters Treaty
Answer: Consular Access Agreement
Q5. How many Indian fishermen were listed by Pakistan in the January 2026 exchange?
(a) 157
(b) 179
(c) 199
(d) 257
Answer: 199
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