What does the UNSC currently look like? As of now, there are 15 members on the UNSC. Five of those (mostly powers who emerged victorious in the World War II), including the US, UK, France, China and Russia are permanent members. These members have the all-important veto power (essentially a negative vote) which would mean that a “resolution or decision would not be approved”. The remaining 10 non-permanent members are elected by the General Assembly for two-year terms, starting 1 January. Five members are replaced each year. India has been elected as a non-permanent member to the UNSC for seven such terms(a total of 14 years)

Why UNSC needs reform? UNSC still reflects the geopolitical architecture of the Second World War. It was expanded only once in 1963 to add 4 non-permanent members. Since then the membership of the United Nations has increased from 113 to 193 without any change in the composition of the UNSC. No permanent member from Africa, despite 75% of work of the UNSC focused on Africa. Unable to respond effectively to situations of international conflict. India and a large number of countries believe that the current UN and its powerful Security Council does not reflect the ground realities of the 21st century.

India’s credentials to become UNSC permanent member By any objective criteria such as population, territorial size, GDP, economic potential, civilizational legacy, cultural diversity, political system and past and on-going contributions to the activities of the UN, India is suited for permanent membership of an expanded UNSC. India’s performance as a non-permanent member of the Security Council during 2011- 2012 has also significantly strengthened India’s claim to permanent membership. India is the largest contributor to the UN Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKO), with nearly 180,000 troops serving in 44 missions since it was established. India is also among the highest financial contributors to the UN, with the country making regular donations to several UN organs like the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF).

Why India wants a permanent membership? India (or any other country for that matter) would want a permanent membership to the UNSC for two reasons. First, the veto power, which India could use to defend its interests, say against Pakistan (just like Russia did last year over the civil war in Ukraine). Second, the sheer prestige associated with permanent membership of a multilateral forum. India’s elevation will also be an acknowledgment of its rise as a global power, ready to play a key role in the council’s objectives of international peace and security

Efforts made by India for the Permanent Membership India along with Brazil, Japan and Germany (together known as the G-4) has proposed expansion of the membership of the UNSC in both the permanent and non-permanent categories. Separately, India is spearheading a group of around 42 developing countries from Asia, Africa and Latin America – called the L.69 Group – which has demanded urgent action on the UNSC reform front. India is also pursuing the matter through bilateral channels with our interlocutors. A large number of countries have supported India’s initiatives for reform of the UNSC as well as endorsed its candidature for permanent membership. India has also received support from several other multilateral groupings including BRICS and IBSA.

The procedure: The State submits an application to the Secretary-General and a letter formally stating that it accepts the obligations under the Charter. The Security Council considers the application. Any recommendation for admission must receive the affirmative votes of 9 of the 15 members of the Council, provided that none of its five permanent members — China, France, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States of America — have voted against the application. If the Council recommends admission, the recommendation is presented to the General Assembly for consideration. A two-thirds majority vote is necessary in the Assembly for admission of a new State. Membership becomes effective the date the resolution for admission is adopted.

What's the stand of Permanent Members? The United States of America: Supports India becoming a permanent member of the UN Security Council is “not to touch the veto” The Russian Federation : was non-committal. The United Kingdom : supported the G-4 without the power of veto China : indicated that the time had not come for any serious negotiations on the subject France : without any objection to veto being extended.

who opposes to India’s bid ? India’s nuclear-armed rival Pakistan has been leading the opposition to its inclusion in the UNSC’s list of permanent members. Other countries, part of an interest group called the “Uniting for Consensus” (UfC), also curiously called “The Coffee Club”, formed in 1995, are opposed to India (and theG4’s bid) for permanent seats. Italy, Pakistan, Mexico and Egypt were founder members of the UfC. The list also includes Argentina, South Korea, Spain, Turkey and Indonesia.

What would be the impact of India’s permanent membership? New included members will get to say in the matters of war and peace. India can represent or lead other countries to stop western forces from promoting their vested interests. Will help India to put forward its interest in a better way. India will have leverage in geopolitics, military, economic and political groupings and negotiations as permanent member of UNSC.