Nuclear test by North Korea matter of grave concern: India

NEW DELHI: Terming the nuclear test conducted by North Korea as a "matter of grave concern", India today deplored it and asked DPRK to refrain from such actions which adversely impact peace and stability in the region and beyond.

It also expressed concern over the proliferation of nuclear and missile technologies which has adversely impacted India's national security.

"India deplores the nuclear test conducted by the DPRK this morning. It is a matter of grave concern that DPRK has again acted in violation of its international obligations and in contravention of the objective of the de-nuclearisation of the Korean peninsula that the DPRK itself has endorsed.

"We call upon DPRK to refrain from such actions which adversely impact peace and stability in the region and beyond. India remains concerned about the proliferation of nuclear and missile technologies which has adversely impacted India's national security," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said.

Earlier in the day, Pyongyang's state media said North Korea has successfully tested a nuclear warhead.

Today's test, which comes after a series of ballistic missile launches that have drawn international condemnation and UN sanctions, was deplored from many countries including the South Korea which said the "maniacal recklessness" of young ruler Kim Jong-Un would lead to self-destruction.