•What steps did the US take to bring the 'holdouts' on board?

The US was in touch with them at the highest political level. In the NSG, the UK, France and Russia too were trying to convince them.

•Until late on Friday night, who were still holding out? Why?

Austria and Ireland. Austria's ruling coalition includes the Greens (the Leftists).

Ireland is a strong non-proliferation votary. New Zealand was still not open about support but unlikely to hold out if these two countries move out of the way.

•What has been China's role?

The stated position was they won't obstruct. But they have now questioned the need to hurry and today, even threatened to leave the meeting saying they were not being consulted.

•If the NSG talks fail, what happens next?

The NSG calls for another meeting and if that gives a waiver, the US could call a special session of Congress to pass the deal

•Why are US, India so keen on an immediate waiver?

One, the Congressional calender is too tight to allow any breathing space; two, India, US don’t want to leave the fate of the deal in the uncertain hands of the next regime.