The debate on 123 agreement has refreshed the memory of "Navarasa" of Hindi literature. It has been brave (even if left withdraws support, the treaty is on), "Karuna" (empathy evoked by BJP statements- about the fate of the party, not the nuclear deal), Comic (too many examples) and so on. I am sure that was not the intended objective of such long negotiations.

There is a tendency in our country to respond to "triggered events". The only exception was the "trigger" of nuclear power state initiated by the Atal Bihari Bajpayee government. In my opinion, the debate was over on the issue and it was concluded by acceptability of India as an emerging economic and military power.

It is a matter of research and posterity why the subject was given so much importance again. India was and is on its march to develop its various technologies, including nuclear technology. The doctrine of "Nuclear Independence" of Homi Bhabha remains valid and the Indian scientific community is doing its best to realise it. We are on the threshold of new developments. Then, someone triggers a "nuclear deal" and importance of "nuclear energy" for "energy security" and the long tested nuclear doctrine is given a goby!

What does India want out of all this treaty under way? Has anyone given a strategic thought to our long term goals and interests? Are we clear about where we want to be after 40 years, when the agreement comes to an end? Did we design a road map? It will be very sad if those in power and guiding the destiny of this great nation start searching for answers to these questions, now.

I used to comment often that our Rashtra Mantra is "Sab Chalta Hai" and Individual Mantra is "Sab smart Banane ke Chakkar mein hain". We should not subject the destiny of our nation and future generations on these two unfortunate traits of our nation. There is need to rethink and be clear. The time has come for us to think clearly and strategically.