Rural Administration

The global focus on South Asia sharply increased when both India and Pakistan became nuclear powers in 1998. India first tested nuclear weapons in May 1998, followed by Pakistan later in the same month. This development shifted global attention to the region due to concerns over nuclear proliferation and the potential for conflict between these two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Although other events, such as the Kargil conflict (1999) and the Bangladesh War of 1971, were significant, the nuclear tests by India and Pakistan in 1998 were the most pivotal in terms of global focus.
Thus, the correct answer is (C) India and Pakistan both became nuclear power.

Let's analyze the events in chronological order:
- India-China War (1962): The India-China War occurred in 1962, when tensions escalated over border disputes, especially concerning the Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh regions.
- India's first test of a nuclear device (1974): India conducted its first successful nuclear test, known as "Smiling Buddha," in May 1974, marking its entry into the nuclear-armed countries list.
- Terrorists attack on World Trade Centre in America (2001): The tragic terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York City occurred on September 11, 2001, an event that reshaped global security concerns.
- The Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty (1972): The ABM Treaty between the United States and the Soviet Union was signed in 1972, limiting the development and deployment of anti-ballistic missile systems.
Thus, the correct chronological order is:
(i) India-China War → (ii) India's first test of a nuclear device → (iii) Terrorists attack on World Trade Centre → (iv) The Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty.
Thus, the correct answer is (A) (i), (ii), (iii), (iv).