CTBT SnT2025 Showcases AI, Seismology, and Outreach for Nuclear Test Ban Verification
SDG 16: Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions | SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Institutions: Ministry of External Affairs | Department of Atomic Energy
The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) convened its Science & Technology Conference 2025 (SnT2025) in Vienna from 8β12 September, bringing together over 1,000 experts from science, policy, and diplomacy. Key sessions demonstrated how AI and machine learning can sharpen analysis of data from global sensor networks, improving seismic monitoring and signal detection. Seismology researchers presented advances in distinguishing natural earthquakes from mining-related events, alongside new instruments such as the Ultra Broadband Borehole Seismometer. The conference also highlighted outreach and engagement strategies, including capacity-building projects like seismic hazard studies in Ghana, and discussions on integrating gender perspectives in scientific and diplomatic fields. These advances strengthen the International Monitoring System and support broader universalization of the CTBT.
SnT2025 underscores how verification technologies are rapidly advancing and have dual uses beyond security - in disaster management, environmental monitoring, and science diplomacy. With CTBT universalization still incomplete, adopting these tools can both enhance national preparedness and align India with evolving global verification standards.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders: How can India leverage cutting-edge verification science while maintaining its strategic autonomy on CTBT ratification, and simultaneously use these technologies for civilian applications like disaster risk reduction?
Follow the full news here: https://ctbto.org/SnT2025