Test 20 IR PDF

VISION IAS
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Approach – Answer: General Studies Mains Mock Test 1239 (2019)
1. Bringing out the relevance of ILO for international labour standards, write a short note on ILO's Decent
Work Country Programme.
Approach:
 Give a very brief introduction of the ILO.
 Discuss how ILO remains relevant to today’s world in establishing international labour standards.
 Write about ILO’s Decent Work Country Programme in this context.
 In conclusion, briefly highlight some challenges before ILO and conclude on a positive note.
Answer:
ILO was established in 1919 and incorporated into the UN as a specialized agency in 1946. Its goal is to
promote workers’ interests and “social justice” by following a “tripartite approach” involving the
governments, employers and workers
Everyday 7,500 workers die worldwide due to unsafe and unhealthy working environments and over 1
million workers get injured at work. This underlines the need for concerted efforts to develop labor
standards. International labour standards are first and foremost about the development of people as
human beings. In the ILO's Declaration of Philadelphia of 1944, the international community recognized
that "labour is not a commodity".
The relevance of ILO in this context may be further gauged through the following:
In 1998, the ILO produced the Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work. In the
Declaration, ILO member states agreed that they should all respect, promote, and realise core labour
standards. The core labour standards consist of five standards, laid out in eight conventions of the ILO.
 Freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining
(Convention No. 87 & No. 98).
 The elimination of all forms of forced and compulsory labour (Convention No. 29 & No. 105).
 The effective abolition of child labour (Convention No. 138 & No. 182).
 The elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation (Convention No. 100 &
No. 111).
Apart from these the ILO has also played an important role in the development of the following
internationally recognized labor rights:
 the right to a living wage based on a regular working week that does not exceed 48 hours;
 humane working hours with no forced overtime;
 a safe and healthy workplace free from harassment; and
 a recognised employment relationship with labour and social protection.
The Decent Work Country Programmes (DWCPs) have been established by ILO as the main vehicle for
delivery of its support to countries with two key objectives:
 Promoting decent work as a key component of national development strategies.
 Organising ILO knowledge, instruments, advocacy and cooperation at the service of tripartite
constituents in a results-based framework to advance the Decent Work Agenda.
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This can be better understood through the example of Decent Work Country Programme for 2018-2022
for India. It has an overarching development objective of “creating a more decent future of work
through better quality of jobs, transition to formal employment and environment sustainability”. It has
identified three priorities for India:
 Promoting, adopting and implementing international labour standards for the protection of workers
from unacceptable forms of work.
 Creating sustainable, inclusive and decent employment for women and youth, especially those who
are vulnerable to socio-economic and environmental exclusion and are working in the informal
economy.
 Fostering tripartite mechanisms to protect the rights of workers by promoting labour administration,
occupational safety and health (OSH) and social protection.
Thus the work of ILO in developing labour standards and programmes such as DWCP go a long way in
aiding the efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 8.
2. Given the growing ecological and geopolitical significance, Arctic region offers immense opportunities
for serving India's long-term interests. Discuss.
Approach:
 Brief introduction about Arctic region.
 Highlight the growing environmental and geopolitical importance of Arctic.
 Discuss how this potential can be used for furthering India’s long-term interests and mention a few
challenges posed to India by it.
 Brief conclusion where some steps taken in this direction can be mentioned.
Answer:
The increasing ecological as well as geo-political significance of the Arctic has been highlighted by
unprecedented rate of ice-melt caused by global warming, the quest for natural resources in the region
and possibilities of opening up of new trade routes in recent times. This presents an opportunity to India
as well to serve its long-term interests, which include:
 Climate Research: the polar regions have a major influence on global climate. Changes in the Arctic
have an impact on phenomenon such as the Monsoon, which affects India. India already has polar
research capabilities through its experience in the Antarctica. Polar research in the Arctic would
serve India’s long term interest of climate security. The opening of the Himadri research station in
2008 further attests to the steps India has been taking in this direction.
 Strategic importance: Future of the Arctic depends on cooperation between Arctic and non-Arctic
states. India has been an observer at the Arctic Council since 2013. Countries such as Norway have
come up with specific India strategies. This is an indication of the potential of cooperation between
arctic and non-arctic states for the future of a region, which is globally important yet not a global
commons.
 Energy Security: Abundance of oil and natural gas in Arctic and our dependence on these, especially
crude oil, makes the Arctic more important for India from energy security point of view. Also, it can
help India in diversifying its energy imports. E.g.- India is interested in cooperation with Russia for
oil and gas exploration in this region
 Economic importance: The Arctic region holds mineral resources including gold, nickel, cooper,
graphite and uranium, utilised in the manufacture of high-technology products such as mobile
phones and nuclear reactors. Furthermore, the opening up of the Arctic route may change the global
connectivity map. Remaining engaged with this region is thus is of vital significance for India.
Thus, Arctic region becomes important for India’s long-term interest. India should work closely with
Arctic Council to further safeguard its interests in the region. The cooperation with other observers at
the Arctic Council such as Japan, Singapore and South Korea would also strengthen India’s position.
However, India needs to have an Arctic policy to articulate its position, as many like China and South
Kore have already done.

3. Highlight the role and significance of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the peaceful settlement
of international disputes. Also, discuss some limitations with regard to functioning of ICJ.
Approach:
 In introduction, give a very brief account of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
 Discuss in brief the role and significance of the ICJ in the peaceful settlement of international
disputes.
 Discuss in brief the limitations with respect to functioning of ICJ.
 Give appropriate examples wherever relevant.
Answer:
Located in the Hague (Netherlands), the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the principal judicial organ
of the United Nations. Since its establishment in 1945 it has played an important role in peaceful
settlement of international disputes through its two pronged functions:
 Contentious cases: it decides, in accordance with international law, disputes of a legal nature that
are submitted to it by States.
 Advisory opinions: on legal questions at the request of the organs of the United Nations, specialized
agencies or one related organization authorized to make such a request.
These functions of the ICJ are significant in:
 Contribution to resolving questions of territory and sovereignty: On the questions of territory and
sovereignty the ICJ through special agreements makes a significant contribution to International law.
Also, the data suggests that States that agree to take their disputes to ICJ are successful in finding a
resolution.Preventive diplomacy: Advisory function is an effective instrument of preventive
diplomacy and can also make a substantial contribution to resolving existing disputes. For example:
Advisory opinions on the Restrictions to the Genocide Convention case, the legality of the threat or
use of Nuclear Weapons case, etc. have a bearing not only on international law also on the ideal of
world peace.
 ICJ as a platform for the weak: A state that does not have economic and military standing or the
capacity to influence outcomes in the international realm can still gain access to assistance from the
ICJ.
 Establishing state’s reputation: Since ICJ publishes its judgments so if a State develops a reputation
for violating international law, other States are more likely to be sceptical when entering into
treaties or agreements with them.
Limitations of ICJ:
 Court composition: Judges and intended impartiality
o The 15 Judges of ICJ are elected on the basis of regional representation. For example, 3 from
Asia while 5 from Western Europe and 2 from Eastern Europe.
o Further, data suggests that 90% of the time judges vote in favour of their own country. The
cultural differences in how the evidences are interpreted and bias of the judges in ICJ can sway
the outcome of cases and harm the intended impartiality of the court.
 National sovereignty: when it comes to states, the ICJ only has jurisdiction based on consent, not
compulsory jurisdiction.
 Absence of international enforcement system: Once an ICJ decision is made, there is no automatic
“police force” to follow it up. For example, case of 1980s where Nicaragua took the United States to
the ICJ over the mining of its harbours. Also, the exclusive power of veto possessed by the UNSC’s
five permanent members, makes enforcement of ICJ judgments difficult and grants some states
more influence over others.
 Suitability of dispute: Not every dispute may be suitable for handling by an international court
system. For example, dispute of the Suez Canal in the late 1950s between Egypt and Israel, where
both parties refused to go to ICJ because neither side wanted to risk a clear judgement against it.

4. Discuss the challenges that India may face in the eventuality of withdrawal of US troops from
Afghanistan. What options does India have to safeguard its interests in the context of the changing
situation?
Approach:
 Introduce by giving a brief highlight of the issue involved.
 Discuss the challenges that India faces with the withdrawal of USA troops from Afghanistan.
 Discuss what India should do to safeguard its interests in the context of the changing situation.
 Conclude on the basis of the above points.
Answer:
President Donald Trump’s decision to reduce US forces in Afghanistan from 14,000 to 7,000 would have
far reaching consequences for Afghanistan. However, India as development partner and a neighbor of
Afghanistan also faces probable challenges, such as:
 Security: US withdrawing troops from Afghanistan would strengthen negotiating leverage of groups
such as the Taliban. This may imapct India’s security as terrorist outfits such as the al-Qaeda and
Haqqani network may feel empowered. Specifically the situation in Jammu and Kashmir might be
affected adversely.
 Humanitarian issues: The civil unrest might lead to a mass exodus of Afghans trying to flee the
country which could trigger another refugee crisis that may have repercussions for India.
 Economic impact:
o India’s investments in Afghanistan such as Salma dam, Afghan Parliament building may turn
futile if Taliban comes back to power.
o The resulting instability in Afghanistan may hamper regional projects such as TAPI pipeline.
Regional instability: An Islamist regime in Afghanistan may make Pakistan a central player in the
country. It might further exacerbate regional instability. Following are the various options available for
India to safeguard its interests in the context of the changing situation:
 Diplomatic efforts: India needs to cooperate with other like-minded countries to push forward
peace process and achieve its strategic objectives. It also needs to engage USA in understanding the
future course of events and taking steps to stabilise Afghanistan.
 Strengthening Afghanistan’s security capabilities: India must step up its efforts beyond
development assistance to provide monetary and material assistance to strengthen security
capabilities of the Afghan government.
 Strengthening ties with Afghanistan: India needs to use the goodwill it has earned and the links it
has established to cement the anti-Taliban forces, without interfering in Afghanistan’s internal
affairs. India needs to further strengthen its cooperation with Afghanistan in the sphere of
economic, social and human resource development.
 Formulation of a clear-cut roadmap: A more nuanced Pakistan policy has to be adopted in order to
fight a better positioned Pakistan in the region.
 Strengthen Border security: Domestically, India needs to increase its military preparedness in the
border areas, develop cooperation among the intelligence and military organization and modernize
the armed forces and the border security, in case of civil unrest in Afghanistan and the resulting
regional instability post troops-withdrawal.
This will not only ensure that Afghanistan remains friendly towards India and not a haven for hostile
elements but will set India ready to tackle the above challenges in a holistic and effective manner.
5. India is confronted with difficult choices given the existing regional complexities in West Asia.
Comment in the wake of deepening ties between India and West Asian countries.
Approach:
 Discuss India’s deepening ties with the West Asian nations.
 Comment on the existing regional complexities in West Asia.

Answer:
With its longstanding historical and cultural ties and the growing strategic and economic stakes, India’s
engagement with West Asia has become multilayered and nuanced spanning across energy, economic
issues, security and strategic cooperation, issues related with immigrants. Similarly, relations with states
as diverse as Saudi Arabia and UAE, Israel and Iran hold significance for India. As also seen in recent top-
level political visits and agreements.
However, the countries of West Asia are diverse and there are multiple factors that impinge on India’s
quest for regional stability. In this context, it is important for India to be able to navigate multiple
existing regional complexities:
 Saudi-Iran rivalry: Saudi Arabia and Iran have clashed for decades in a struggle for regional
dominance, which has been exacerbated by sectarian differences.
 Israel-Arab state relations: The relations between Israel and Arab states have centered on their
opposing viewpoints regarding Palestine’s status and absorption of territories by Israel during
conflicts in 1967, 1973 etc.
 Intra-Arab Rivalry: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt and Bahrain have severed diplomatic relations and have
imposed a land, sea and air embargo on Qatar.
 Civil wars and terrorism: Civil wars in Syria and Yemen have threatened regional stability. It is
associated with other factors as well i.e. rivalries between states such as Iraq and Saudi Arab as well
as the rise of terrorist groups such as ISIS and Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula.
 External Actors: The US has recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and Golan Heights as a part of
Israeli territory, which has been denounced by Arab states like Saudi Arabia. Further, the US has
withdrawn from the Iran Nuclear Deal and has imposed stringent sanctions on Iran, which can
destabilise the Iranian economy and affect India’s oil and gas imports from Iran.
Given these complexities and India’s stakes, the need is to craft an independent and balanced policy
towards West Asia keeping in consonance with regional sensitivities. Based on neutrality and non-
prescriptiveness the policy should balance, cooperate, connect and build strong economic and security
partnerships with the West Asian nations. India can play the role of bridge between Iran and the GCC
countries. It must strive to bring greater harmony in the region through its realistic economic diplomacy
without getting drawn into regional conflicts.
6. By being an active partner in Africa’s development, India stands to gain tremendously. Discuss. Also
highlight the initiatives taken by India in recent times towards a sustained and systematic outreach to
all parts of Africa.
Approach:
 Briefly, discuss the turnaround in African nations.
 Highlight the opportunities it creates for India and a need for an active partnership with Africa.
 Enumerate the initiatives taken by India in recent times towards a sustained and systematic
outreach to all parts of Africa.
Answer:
India-Africa relations date back to the pre-colonial era and later to India’s consistent support to the anti-
colonial struggle in Africa and anti-racist liberation in South Africa. In the recent past, economic realities
in Africa have undergone tremendous change with many countries witnessing an economic turnaround.
Africa now has six of the world’s fastest growing economies. The World Bank estimates Ethiopia will
grow at 8.2 per cent, Ghana 8.3 per cent, Cote d’Ivoire 7.2 per cent, Djibouti 7 per cent, Senegal 6.9 per
cent, and Tanzania 6.8 per cent in 2019. Consequently, this period has also seen a marked increase in
India’s linkages with Africa.
At present, the relationship has become much more holistic with Indian interests in Africa now including
diplomatic and security elements and also acquiring a long-term nature. India is looking at developing
deep, diversified, and lasting relationships with an increasing number of African countries, for it stands
to gain in the following ways:
Economic Importance
 Trade: India has become Africa's fourth-largest national trading partner. Trade between Africa and
India has increased more than eight-fold from US$7.2 billion in 2001 to US$59.9 billion in 2017.
 Energy: The abundance of energy resources can fulfil the needs of the Indian economy and help us
in the diversification of energy import basket. India can contribute to Africa’s energy development
through renewable energy and niche areas like microgrids. Besides, India led International Solar
Alliance has members from Africa making their cooperation is crucial for its success.
 Investment: Africa’s resource-rich base provides huge investment opportunities for Indian
companies. It is estimated that Africa is poised to grow higher than global economic growth.
Therefore, provides a huge market for Indian goods, agribusiness, pharmaceutical and ICT services.
 Development & Co-development Opportunities: India and Africa are committed to cooperate for
achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The transition economies of Africa like Kenya, South
Africa, Ghana and Mozambique are less resource dependent and offer opportunities for India’s
private sector and its human resource-based development assistance. The resource dependent Least
Developed Countries offer co-development opportunities with countries like Japan or France.
Geopolitical and strategic importance
 Diplomacy: There is a greater African recognition of India’s potential role as a partner and a global
player. Convergence in interests helps India garner immense support from the African nations for its
bid for a United Nations Security Council permanent seat and other instances in multilateral forums,
like climate change summits.
 Security relationship: Many western as well as non-western powers are stepping up their presence
to secure their interests in the region. China has set up its first overseas military base in Djibouti.
Besides, there are few areas in African continent known for emergence and operation of radicalism,
piracy and organized crime. Therefore, Africa’s geographical proximity to India renders African
cooperation critical to India’s security, especially in the Horn of Africa region.
India has taken note of the fact that the historical connect only is no longer enough to entice Africa to
take India seriously. Therefore, India is making a renewed push to regain relevance in a rapidly evolving
African strategic landscape through the following initiatives:
 India’s increased diplomatic engagement with the African continent through sustained high-level
interactions (such as PM’s four nation tour, President’s visit to Djibouti and Ethiopia) and plan to
open 18 new Indian missions over four years (2018-2021) in Africa.
 152 lines of credit have been extended to 44 countries for a total amount of nearly $8 billion for
developing infrastructure, public transport, clean energy, irrigation, agriculture and manufacturing
capacity etc. across Africa.
 India held the third India-Africa Forum Summit in 2015, where it announced Lines of Credit of
US$10 billion for development projects and a grant assistance of $600 million at the last India-Africa
summit in 2015 to spread over 5 years.
 Various development projects like Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Program, Pan African
e-Network and Techno-Economic Approach for Africa-India Movement (Team9) etc. are being
undertaken by India.
 Capacity building by setting up training Institutes in different African countries, encompassing areas
ranging from agriculture, rural development and food processing to information technology,
vocational training, and entrepreneurship development. India is also considering the Asia-Africa
corridor in partnership with Japan.
Today, Africa is at a critical juncture and all the major powers have increased their engagement to play
many roles in Africa’s growth story. Hence, India must find a way to raise its profile and ensure that its
age-old ties with Africa get a modern sanction. India can lead the way along an alternate model of
development through “win-win cooperation” with Africa.

7. Identify the need to reform the traditional international development finance system. In this regard,
also assess the benefits and risks associated with the emergence of the new multilateral development
banks (MDBs) in recent times.
Approach:
 Define Development Finance Institutions and list what comprises the traditional International
Development Finance system.
 Discuss in brief the need to reform the present system.
 Enumerate in brief the benefits of the emergence of the new multilateral development bank (MDB)
system.
 Also, bring out the risks associated with it. Conclude on the basis of the above points.
Answer:
The traditional international development finance system consists of one global institution i.e. the World
Bank Group (WBG), consisting of several lending arms and many regional institutions, including more
than 20 multilateral development banks (MDBs).
The role of development finance institutions is to channel flows to countries, especially low-income
nations that do not have sufficient access to private flows. It is also essential to guarantee an adequate
supply of funds to middle-income countries during periods of insufficient private capital flows and serve
other essential developmental functions. However, traditional development finance institutions are
presently in urgent need of reforms in order to:
 Bridge the huge financial gap between requirements and resources, facing developing countries,
created by traditional MDB’s moving away from infrastructure investment as a priority. Today, the
World Bank and regional MDB’s put together can spend only about $116 billion a year, while almost
$ 1.5 trillion annually is needed for investment in infrastructure alone.
 Harmonize their operational procedures so as to reduce transaction costs and make disbursement
and delivery more flexible, taking into account national development needs and objectives
 Address the issues of wrong allocation and poor understanding of risks such as currency/exchange
rate risks by transferring them to lenders, who can best manage and sustain them.
 Address existing governance issues arising due to insufficient participation of developing countries in
the key institutions and fora.
 Address burdensome restrictions such as the use of development financing as leverage to promote
social and political change.
 Improve targeting to the poor, coordination of aid and measurement of results.
 Improve lending effectiveness by using development frameworks that are owned and driven by
developing countries and that embody poverty reduction strategies.
 Enhance the absorptive capacity and financial management of the recipient countries to utilize
assistance in order to promote the use of the most suitable aid delivery instruments that are
responsive to their needs.
In this context, new multilateral development banks (MDBs) such as the NDB, AIIB etc. are uniquely
placed to play a central role in realizing the ambitions of the new global agenda because of their
following benefits:
 Their local knowledge and networks, better representation of countries in the region and greater
institutional legitimacy are advantages over traditional institutions.
 They can bring in additional investment in infrastructure development in developing countries
 They can complement the traditional institutions in supporting different dimensions of development
including climate action, disease containment, conflict prevention, migration, and economic and
financial instability.
 By offering credible alternatives in development finance through initiatives based on equity, they
bring a strong impetus for reform of the traditional institutions.

 Their unique financial structure allows them to leverage contributions from different shareholders
and create low-cost financing.
 They may also help revive the interests of traditional development finance institutions in
infrastructure investment.
Despite their inherent strengths, there are certain risks associated with the new MDB’s as follows:
 Their unwillingness to abide by all the existing rules will undermine existing standards, goals, and
values and create multiplicity of frameworks and rules.
 Their leniency toward infrastructure projects that may have negative social and environmental
consequences could make them more attractive to some borrowers. This could seriously undermine
the ability of traditional institutions to uphold existing standards.
 There are risks around their potential misuse for perusal of foreign policy interests of member states
such as China, moving away from the primary goal of development.
 Their lending frameworks are riskier since they need to be tailored to local conditions and
implementation capacities of fragile and high-debt states.
It will take some time before new MDBs can match the lending scale of traditional MDBs like the World
Bank but they must ensure uniqueness through faster loan appraisal, lean organisational structure,
lower cost of loans and create pressure for system-wide reform and overhaul in other MDBs. Further,
both traditional and new MDBs’ resources are insufficient to fill the global infrastructure investment gap.
Therefore, they need to cooperate and co-finance new projects.
8. The BRICS as a grouping seems to have internal contradictions, which makes it difficult for it to emerge
as an effective forum in a dynamic multi-polar international order. Critically discuss.
Approach:
 Introduce in brief the idea of the BRICS Group.
 Give an account of internal contradiction in the BRICS group.
 Discuss the factors that help the BRICS to remain an effective multilateral forum in a multi-polar
international order.
 Conclude on the basis of above points.
Answer:
The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) is a grouping of five emerging economies. The
BRICS nations currently account for nearly a quarter of the world economy, contributing more than half
of global economic growth.
Although BRICS as a group has evolved gradually into an important coalition in the multi-polar
international order, in recent times many scholars have questioned the significance and relevance of
BRICS amid growing internal contradictions:
 Competition: All BRICS countries aspire to be regional powers and hence at some point some of
them compete with each other.
 Different political systems with Brazil, India and South Africa being democracies while Russia and
China having authoritarian characteristics.
 Contradictions in Trade: Brazil and Russia are commodity exporting countries and thus benefit from
high commodity prices while India and China are commodity importers that benefit from low
commodity prices.
 Territorial issues: China and India have outstanding territorial issues to resolve and India looks with
suspicion to any institution that has Chinese domination.
 Diverging views in multilateral forums reforms: China and Russia seem to support the inclusion of
three other countries as permanent members in UNSC only on paper with no significant result on

the ground. Also, India is the only BRICS country which is still not a member of the NSG on account
of China’s reluctance.
However, there are many factors that help bolster co-operation among BRICS members.
 Convergence on global economic order: The common need to construct economic order that
reflects current situation will drive the BRICS to conjure up their efforts towards global economic
governance. New Development Bank and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement has challenged the
legitimacy of US/Western dominated Bretton Woods institutions. The BRICs countries have become
“agenda setters” in multilateral institutions.
 Common interest in sustaining BRICS forum as it provides a platform to them for addressing Global
issues such as IMF reforms, climate change, terrorism, etc. from the perspective of emerging
economies.
 Cooperation on new emerging subjects such as outer space: In 10th BRICS summit held last year,
there were concerns against arms race in outer space and calls for strict compliance with the existing
legal regime providing for the peaceful use of outer space. The expansion of BRICS interaction
beyond economic issues to other areas will make it a stronger partnership.
 Cooperation in social sector: It is also working in issues like Women Empowerment by a proposal to
set up a BRICS Gender and Women’s Forum, setting up a vaccine research center for immunization
to promote new vaccines.
 Common quest for economic growth will also drive co-operation among BRICS countries to help one
another sustain their growth trajectories. The BRICS expansion, known as "BRICS Plus" can be
furthered and build into a wider partnership with other major developing countries and
organizations, so as to turn BRICS into the most-influential platform for South-South cooperation in
the world.
The BRICS continues to remain a coalition of emerging economies that will challenge western dominated
discourses in some forums and provide an alternative idea of global governance and shared prosperity.
9. Despite India having immense soft power potential, it alone will not be sufficient to achieve India's
foreign policy objectives. Examine.
Approach:
 Introduce by giving the definition of soft power and highlighting India’s soft power potential.
 Highlight how soft power alone is insufficient to achieve India’s foreign policy objectives.
 Discuss the alternatives methods of diplomacy which can be pursued to complement soft power.
 Conclude by giving a way forward.
Answer:
Soft power is the ability of a country to persuade others to do what it wants without resorting to force or
coercion. It is associated with intangible power resources such as culture, ideology, reputation and
institutions.
India’s Soft Power potential
 Since independence, soft power has been intrinsic to India’s foreign policy. India boasts an amazing
variety and wealth of soft power resources.
 Its spiritualism, yoga, movies and television soaps, classical and popular dance and music, cuisines,
its principles like universal brotherhood, non-violence, democratic institutions, plural society, etc.
have all attracted the people across the world.
 Most recently, upon India’s insistence, UN General Assembly moved resolution to observe June 21
as International Yoga Day. It was supported by 170 countries.
 Its strong moral streak and democratic traditions have helped in India’s external engagement. For
example- Dalai Lama sought refuge in India, Bangladesh and other countries turned towards India

for assistance in conducting free and fair elections, drafting their constitutions and developing
welfare schemes.
 Masood Azhar being designated as a global terrorist by UN is considered as one of the biggest
diplomatic win for India can be an excellent example of India’s rising soft power potential.
Inadequacy of Soft power
 Despite its merits and successes, soft power alone is inadequate to fulfil the desired foreign policy
objectives. In an increasingly militarized world, emphasis on soft power is considered as weakness by
many.
 Soft power projection through bus diplomacy or cultural exchanges has not succeeded in changing
the behaviour of Pakistan. Use of terrorism as a means of state policy by the neighbour cannot be
dealt with by soft power alone.
 Similarly, China has not yielded on border disputes, despite India’s economic and military rise since
1962 and attempts at resolving the differences through peaceful dialogue.
 Non-aggressive impression of India co-exists with negative impressions about its ability to effectively
govern and deliver a decent quality of life to its people.
Alternatives in the diplomacy
 Given the apparent limitations of soft power, there is an urgent need to complement it with hard
power. Hard power is based on use of military options, coercive diplomacy and economic
sanctions.
 In recent times, India has successfully deployed both the methods to deftly deal with crisis of
international nature.
 India stood its ground in the Doklam Crisis without escalating it to an armed conflict. Chinese troops
had to recede. Most recently, India successfully retaliated after the Pulwama attack. While the
Indian air force crossed international borders to destroy the terrorist training camps in Balakot, it
also secured the safe and successful return of Air force pilot captured by Pakistan.
Thus, both the powers need to be embraced in complementarity to one another. Hard power yields
obedience, while soft power yields acceptance. The former is the foundation of state’s strength, but the
later helps consolidate that strength. History suggests that the synergistic use of both forms of power,
increasingly termed as smart power, allows a state to gain global influence.
10. Strategic partnership between India and South Africa goes beyond the bilateral facets. Analyse.
Approach:
 Elaborate on the bilateral aspects of relationship between India and South Africa.
 Analyse the aspects beyond the bilateral relationship.
 Mention the basis for future engagement between India and South Africa.
 Conclude on the basis of the above points on an optimistic note.
Answer:
The bilateral relationship between India and South Africa truly began when the diplomatic channels
were opened between them after the end of Apartheid in 1994. In 1997, through signing of Red Fort
Declaration, it was elevated to a Strategic Partnership. Recently, this strategic partnership was further
solidified when the South African President attended the Republic Day parade, 2019 as the Chief Guest.
Major aspects of bilateral ties include:
 Economic ties- Bilateral trade grew exponentially from US$3 million in 1992–1993 to over US$15
billion presently. There are large number of Indian companies and business entities in South Africa
and growing number of South African investments in India.

 Military ties- India and South Africa have also developed military cooperation, trading arms and joint
exercises and programs to train forces. It also cooperates on naval front within the Indian Ocean
Naval Symposium, to secure sea lanes against illegal actors.
 Cultural ties- The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) organises an intensive programme of
cultural exchanges throughout South Africa and also offers scholarship for South African nationals.
 Social development- Indian companies actively participate in and encourage corporate social
responsibility undertakings in education, up-skilling, and women empowerment thus promoting
their business operations alongside local community development.
Beyond the bilateral relationship, there are many multilateral aspects including:
 IBSA Forum: An international tripartite grouping for promoting international cooperation among
India, Brazil and South Africa, three important poles for galvanizing South-South cooperation and
greater understanding between three important continents of the developing world. It engages in
discussions for cooperation in the field of agriculture, trade, culture, and defence among others.
 BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) grouping representing about 41% of the world
population, is an important forum to cooperate towards an alternative global governance
architecture.
 Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA): An international organisation consisting of 22 coastal states
bordering the Indian Ocean for promoting co-operation and closer interaction among them, by
bringing together the representatives of Government, Business and Academia.
 G20: An international forum for the governments and central bank governors from the 20
participants aiming to promote international financial stability and address issues that go beyond the
responsibilities of any one organization.
 Other common concerns: Both the countries agreed on early agreement and adoption of the UN
Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) and condemned terrorism in all its
forms. Both the countries share common concerns in the area of terrorism, FATF, cyber-security etc.
However, there are certain areas where further cooperation between Indian and South Africa is
required. For example, there is a need of an extensive dialogue on various initiatives in play such as Belt
and Road Initiative, Asia-Africa Growth Corridor, Free and Open Indo-Pacific and Fourth India-Africa
Forum Summit. The relationship between India and South Africa is anchored in common ideals, ideas,
interests and icons – Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. These should be the basis of future
engagement between the two countries.
11. Comment on the role played by the diaspora in India's development process. Also, discuss the
challenges in terms of engaging the Indian diaspora and suggest ways to translate these partnerships
into benefits.
Approach:
 Define diaspora and elaborate its role in India’s development process.
 Highlight the challenges in terms of engaging the Indian diaspora.
 Conclude with the ways to translate these partnerships into benefits.
Answer:
The Indian diaspora encompasses a group of people who can either trace their origins to India or who
are Indian citizens living abroad, either temporarily or permanently. The Indian diaspora comprises of
approximately 31 million people, of which PIOs are above 17 million and NRIs over 13 million, spread
across 146 countries in the world.
Role played by the diaspora in India's development process:
 Remittances: Substantial financial contributions through remittances are utilised by recipient
families in productive activities such as improvement of land, education or health and helps in

poverty reduction. According to the World Bank, India is the top recipient of remittances at around
80 billion USD.
 Investment: Diaspora also contributes to the economic development in India through Foreign Direct
Investment (FDI) and transnational entrepreneurship, including support for entrepreneurs and small
businesses in the country of origin.
 Knowledge Transfer: Diaspora is a great source of transfer of technical knowledge and skills in the
form of brain gain. They can act as important interlocutors between the technology and country of
origin.
 Philanthropy: Some Diaspora organisations and individuals pursue charitable enterprises. A huge
concentration of Indian diaspora philanthropy has been mobilized on health, education, relief, and
rehabilitation. Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Gujarat & Punjab have a large number of such
NGO’s.
 Diaspora Networks: Diaspora networks serve not only to perpetuate migratory flows but also
influence and control access to particular labour markets. In India’s case such networks are
operative in the Gulf labour markets.
 Advocacy/Diplomacy: Diaspora seeks to influence government, media, corporate sector and other
prominent groups on a range of issues. For instance, lobbying for the US-India Civilian Nuclear
Agreement Bill in 2008.
The country of origin has to cater to the needs of its diaspora and at the same time, create policies to
encourage them to contribute to its growth. In the Indian context, the government initiatives have
followed a corresponding two-pronged approach. While initiatives like ‘Know India Program’, ‘Bharat ko
Jano’ quizzes, UGC scholarships are effective outreach activities; other measures such as policy changes
like Minimum Referral Wages (MRW), applicable only to Emigration Check Required (ECR) countries,
increased the minimum wage of Indian workers.
However, there are some quintessential limitations upon our engagement with our diaspora:
 Support of the diaspora is neither automatic nor continuous, and their interests need not be India’s
priorities.
 Remittances may not always be used for beneficial purposes, such as foreign funding being used for
separatist movements like the Khalistan movement.
 Repatriation and rescue of Indians stuck abroad is a huge financial challenge.
 Wealthier diaspora from the US, Canada and the UK demand dual citizenship and voting rights.
 Minimum Referral Wages policy and E-Migrate system, although helped in reducing the
vulnerability to fraudulent contracts, have been detrimental to India as companies now find it easier
to hire labour from countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan.
 Diplomacy in the gulf rests on a paradox since promoting Indian migrants’ rights should not hamper
emigration flows.
For India to leverage its connect with the diaspora fully and find ways to translate these partnerships
into benefits, it must consider the following options:
 India can open a separate Minister-of-State level department for NRI administration - similar to the
Veterans’ Administration in the US.
 Formalize a rotation program wherein top NRI scientists, engineers, doctors, managers and
professionals serve Indian public sector organizations for a brief period, lending their expertise,
similar to VAJRA Scheme.
 India should aggressively court NRIs to invest in India — especially for projects which focus on rural
development — by offering attractive interest rates on deposits.
 Provide rehabilitation centres for returning workers, especially from Middle-East.
 During overseas visits, the head of state/government should try to connect and intensify their
engagement with the diaspora.
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12. A surging economic, strategic and political involvement of China in India's neighborhood poses serious
challenges for India's diplomatic objectives in the region. Analyse.
Approach:
 Demonstrate with examples growing Chinese economic, strategic and political involvement in South
and South East Asia.
 Highlight India’s diplomatic objectives in its neighbourhood and assess how China is countering
Indian influence in the region.
 Conclude by mentioning the measures India should take in this regard.
Answer:
Neighbourhood is the key focus of India’s foreign policy objectives and national interests. However,
China’s increased involvement in the region poses a challenge to India as the regional economic and
diplomatic heavyweight. This can be seen from the following:
Economic:
 China has emerged as a top exporter of goods to the region, including to India. It has broken into
South Asian markets with its export-led growth strategy. Between 2012 and 2015, China disbursed
almost $2.5 billion, while India extended $660 million in lines of credit.
 In Pakistan, Beijing is planning to spend $60bn as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor
(CPEC). It will give China access to the sea via Gwadar port on Pakistan’s south coast.
 Construction of a deep-water port by China in KyaukPyu, Myanmar and Bangladesh reliance on
Chinese military assets like submarines through soft loans is a cause for concern for India.
 China had made several in-roads into Nepal by taking advantage of discomforts in India-Nepal
relations. In 2014, China overtook India as the biggest source of Nepal’s foreign investment.
 As soon as a pro-China regime came to the fore, Beijing quickly expanded its economic profile in the
Maldives by building mega infrastructure projects.
Political
 In Nepal, Beijing helped K.P. Oli, a pro-China leader get elected as the PM by brokering an alliance of
the left parties to take on the pro-India Nepalese Congress.
 China also shared a close relationship with former President Mr. Yameen in Maldives.
 China has provided diplomatic support to Myanmar on Rohingya issue in the face of international
criticism.
 The pro-China Mahinda Rajapaksa’s party won big in the recently concluded local body elections in
Sri Lanka.
Strategic:
 CPEC and One Belt One Road (OBOR) under which China plans to construct various land and
maritime trade routes are also seen as a part of China’s larger military ambition. Further, it overtly
supports Pakistan’s symmetrical or asymmetrical actions against India.
 The upgrade of the China–Sri Lanka relationship to a ‘strategic cooperative partnership’ in 2013 also
demonstrates the geopolitical influence of China’s generous support to Sri Lanka. China provided a
strong diplomatic support to the island state especially in the wake of human rights accountability
issue.
 China also has taken control of the southern port of Hambantota after Colombo was unable to repay
the money it borrowed from Chinese state-backed lenders.
India’s diplomatic objectives in its neighborhood are being put to test by such Chinese incursions:
 Neighbourhood First: Improving connectivity, mitigating nationalism: With financial, military,
infrastructural, and even political assistance, China is looking to act as a potential alternative to
India. This can seriously upset Indian security interests in the region.

 Acting East: China’s expansionism is upsetting India’s aspiration to become an integral part of Asia
and Asia’s delicate balance of power. Besides the development of military and dual use Chinese
infrastructure in India’s neighbourhood and the Indian Ocean, India’s concerns are three-fold:
a. the risk of Chinese assertiveness on the disputed border,
b. the possibility of Chinese primacy in the Indo-Pacific region,
c. And an uneven economic playing field.
 Pakistan Factor: China’s historical support for Pakistan has been driven by its desire to
counterbalance India. By going forward with the ambitious, multi-billion-dollar China-Pakistan
Economic Corridor and providing military and economic support, China is playing spoilsport to India’s
strategy of isolating Pakistan and forcing its deep state to reconsider its priorities.
India needs to take economic, diplomatic as well as security initiative to counter this. It needs to increase
aid to its neighbors and focus on being more efficient in implementation of its development projects. As
New Delhi asserts itself as a leading global power, it must manage not only its immediate neighborhood
with greater strategic vision but also monitor China’s growing clout in South Asia.
13. Though important differences remain between the two, there has been a steady improvement of ties
between India and US in the past few years. Discuss. Also highlight the importance of the Indo-US '2+2'
dialogue in this context.
Approach:
 Highlight the improving relations between the two countries in recent past across various areas of
co-operation.
 Briefly discuss the factors behind the same.
 Write about irritants in India-US relations.
 Conclude with a brief discussion on the 2+2 dialogue mechanism as a forum to address concerns
between the two countries.
Answer:
In recent years, India-U.S. bilateral relations have developed into a "global strategic partnership", based
on shared democratic values and increasing convergence of interests on bilateral, regional and global
issues. The convergence of Indo-American interests rides especially on the issues of defence
interoperability and security cooperation.
 Security Cooperation: The adoption of the ‘Indo-Pacific’ moniker signifies India’s elevated role in the
US security calculus. It links the fate of the Western Pacific to the Indian Ocean region. US also
renamed the US Pacific Command (PACOM) in Hawaii to the 'US Indo-Pacific Command'
 Defence Interoperability: New Delhi and Washington signed the Communications Compatibility and
Security Agreement (COMCASA) to facilitate the use of high-end secured communication equipment
to be installed on military platforms being sold to India.
 Defence Acquisition: The US had recorded over 550% growth in its arms exports to India in 2013–17
compared with the previous five years. It has now become India’s second largest supplier.
 Trade: In 2017, the Indo-US bilateral trade of goods and services reached US$140 billion from
US$118 billion in 2016, inching towards goal of US$500 billion
 Immigration: In immigration, Indians continue to dominate the high-skilled visa category. 3 out of 4
H-1B visa holders are Indians.
 Diplomacy: US has played a pivotal role in ending nuclear isolation of India and continues to back
India’s claim for a permanent seat at UNSC. The Indo-US synergy at the Financial Action Task Force
(FATF) to grey-list Pakistan was notable.
This upward movement has come because of various factors including-
 India’s increasing economy and growing geopolitical significance in the Indian Ocean region
 India needs US’s support in international forums like- NSG, UNSC etc.

 India’s requirement for latest defence technologies matched with desire of USA to target Indian
market for selling its arms and ammunition
 Signing of Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement between India and USA
 Growing assertiveness of China is also prompting both the countries to come closer
 USA disillusionment with Pakistan in its fight against terrorism
 A large section of Indian diaspora present in USA has also helped in strengthening these ties.
Though the relationship has improved, there remains certain irritants between the two countries:
 India’s stand to not align with any superpower and its traditional closer ties with Russia
 USA’s continued support to Pakistan while the latter waging a proxy war against India
 USA threatens unilateral sanctions on all countries, including India, if oil import from Iran is not
reduced to zero, which is India’s second biggest oil supplier.
 India’s defence ties with Russia are another point of contention, where US may invoke CAATSA.
 Though both agree on the need for stability in Afghanistan, USA’s talks with Taliban are not in
consonance of India’s views of the situation.
 USA continued to disagree with India’s claim of compliance with the WTO recommendations around
domestic sourcing of solar cells and modules under National Solar Mission.
 US Import duty hike on various products like steel and aluminium and withdrawal of Generalized
System of Preferences (GSP) to India in trade
 USA opposition to India’s food subsidy bill in the WTO agricultural agreement.
 Stricter H1B Visa norms that restricts the movement of Indian workforce to US and compromises the
competitiveness of Indian companies in US.
In view of above, the two countries have initiated a number of mechanisms to address such concerns.
2+2 dialogue being one of them.
2+2 dialogue, termed as ‘defining moment’ for Indo-US relations is an annual for discussion involving
Indian External Affairs and Defence Ministers and their American counterparts. It aims to elevate and
insulate the India-US strategic relationship from trade and commercial disputes between the two
nations and replaces the India-US Strategic and Commercial Dialogue.
The first 2+2 dialogue in New Delhi in 2018 produced following outcomes-
 Signing of Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA)
 Setting up of a hotline between External Affairs Minister and Defence Minister with their American
counterparts
 Agreement to hold a first-ever tri-service exercise on the east coast of India in 2019
 Deepening of maritime cooperation in Western Indian Ocean
 The two sides agreed to common language on the Indo-Pacific, Afghanistan and North Korea
 India and the US identified several steps to further deepen cooperation on counterterrorism
Thus, 2+2 dialogue is the highest institutionalized annual meeting between the two countries to address
the concerns and aimed at further strengthening of upward moving bilateral relations between the two
countries. Setting up a summit system between the two countries can go a long way in taking this
process forward.
14. Commenting on the importance of Central Asia for India, highlight the progress made in the
relationship in recent past along with the issues that still remain to further cement the ties.
Approach:
 Introduce with a brief note on India-Central Asia relations.
 Discuss the significance of the region for India.
 Elaborate upon the progress in the relations between India and CAR.
 Discuss the issues that prevents deepening of ties between both sides.

Answer:
India and the Central Asia share historical, cultural and economic connections. Although India does not
share a direct boundary with any of the Central Asian states, it considered them as part of its extended
neighbourhood. Both these regions face similar global and regional challenges, paving way for mutually
beneficial linkages between them.
Significance of Central Asian Region:
 Energy: It is the most important area of co-operation. The CAR countries have an abundance of
hydrocarbon and mineral resources. India has been in negotiations for more than a decade now to
ensure access to gas reserves of Turkmenistan through the TAPI pipeline.
 Geo-strategic significance: Located between Russia, China West Asia and being neighbours to
Afghanistan, Central Asia is one of the world’s most strategic zones. Hence, A stable and peaceful
Central Asia is important from India’s foreign policy.
 Trade: The trade between India and CAR is roughly $1 billion compared to $ 50 Billion of China.
Hence, there is a huge potential for increasing the trade relationship between the two India and
CAR.
 Investment: Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are developing fast, creating opportunities
for investment in sectors like IT, pharmaceuticals and tourism.
 Civil Nuclear Cooperation: The region is also rich in fissile material ore which can help India meet its
shortage of fissile material. This is further demonstrated in the Uranium supply agreement India has
signed with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
 Counter-Terrorism: Although militant Islam is largely non-existent in the Central Asian States, there
are minor terrorist groups that are a cause of concern. Both India and the CAR countries have a
shared interest in the stability of Afganistan and counter-terror initiatives.
 Anti Drug trafficking: The great amount of illegal drugs passing through the Central Asian region is
another potential source of volatility. The Indian markets are indirectly implicated in the regional
drug trade system.
India has come up with its “Connect Central Asia policy” (2012), thereby reiterating its commitment to
greater partnership with the Central Asian states. Significant progress has been made on the relationship
between the two regions:
 India has been involved with the renovation of Chabahar port in Iran which will help in connecting to
Eurasia including Central Asia.
 Development of the International North-South Transport Corridor(INSTC), a multi-modal network of
ship, rail, and road route for moving freight between India, Iran, Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia,
Central Asia and Europe.
 Membership of the Ashgabat agreement will help India contribute to the creation of an international
transport and transit corridor facilitating transportation of goods between Central Asia and the Persian
Gulf.
 Membership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization will accord India greater role in Eurasian political,
economic, and security affairs.
 The negotiation of a free trade agreement with Eurasian Economic Union in recent years has been seen as
a way of strengthening India’s engagement with the region
 As part of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, India provides higher
education at marginal cost to Central Asian students
 India-Central Asia Dialogue in 2019 and the initiative to establish an India-Central Asia Group of
Development to promote partnership with the region
 Establishing India-Central Asia Business Council which will engage the chambers of commerce of
participating states.

Issues:
 Lack of institutional mechanisms to implement its ‘Connect Central Asia’ policy.
 India still doesn’t have direct access to the region, which makes it dependent on other neighbouring
countries, especially for trade.
 The unstable situation in Afghanistan and highly volatile India-Pakistan relations has deprived both
sides from mutually benefiting from each other.
 Involvement of major powers including the United States, China, and Russia and growing Russia-
China-Pakistan axis in the region further restrict India’s role.
 Central Asia is part of Silk Road Economic Belt (BRI) initiative. China’s growing military, economic,
and defence cooperation with Central Asia, has become a threat to India’s ambitions in the region.
 Slow progress on the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) and Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI)
pipelines.
Way forward:
India needs to show greater pro-activity and shed its piecemeal approach to Central Asia in favour of a
holistic and long-term approach. Setting up an India-Central Asia Forum could be considered to engage
with them periodically and to identify projects which are of common interests. A Central Asia fund to
seed various projects could be set up as well. There is a need to develop Chabahar port on priority,
besides making INSTC effective and linking them with other connectivity initiatives in the region.
15. Highlight the reasons behind proliferation of multilateral preferential trade agreements. Do they
violate WTO's MFN principle? Do you think that such trade groupings present an existential threat to
WTO?
Approach:
 Start with an account of increased bilateral/multilateral trade agreements.
 Discuss the reasons for their proliferation.
 Evaluate whether trade agreements violate MFN principle.
 Discuss as to why this diversion may be an existential threat to WTO.
Answer:
The rapid increase in multilateral preferential trade agreements (PTAs) also referred to as Regional Trade
Agreements (RTA) has been a prominent feature of international trade policy in recent times. Almost all
WTO members are part of at least one PTA. Recourse to PTAs spans both developed and developing
countries. Recent examples of ‘mega-regional’ PTAs include the Comprehensive and Progressive
Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and ongoing negotiations on a Regional Comprehensive
Economic Partnership (RCEP). Such initiatives are complemented by a plethora of bilateral PTAs,
including a large network of agreements negotiated by the EU.
The steady expansion in the number and average depth of PTAs reflects continued strong interest in
international trade cooperation by governments around the globe. These agreements have become
ubiquitous because of the following reasons:
 Geographical proximity between participating states
 Trade complementarity among participating states
 Limitations of multilateral negotiations at WTO, where progress takes years to achieve consensus
 The weakness of WTO in responding to unilateral measures taken by powerful countries such as the
USA
 The gradual weakening of the the WTO dispute resolution mechanism in recent times.
PTAs constitute an exception to the general most-favoured nation (MFN) provision of the WTO. Prima
facie it might seem that Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) compete with the WTO or violate its principle
of non-discrimination for all WTO members, but often they can actually support the WTO’s multilateral
trading system. It is allowed for the WTO members to conclude RTAs, as a special exception, provided
certain strict criteria are met.
PTAs go further than the WTO in liberalizing trade. For instance, applied tariffs on substantially all trade
between partner countries must in principle be reduced to zero (although WTO rules do not require this
to be the case for PTAs between developing countries). PTAs increasingly go beyond the removal of
border barriers to cover matters not subject to the WTO. Examples include rules governing access for
foreign investment, cross-border data flows, the digital economy, and dimensions of domestic regulation
(e.g., competition policy; public procurement; regulatory cooperation). PTAs in North America (NAFTA),
Europe and East Asia (e.g., ASEAN and related trade and cooperation agreements) have supported the
pattern of specialization and rising ‘foreign’ content of domestic production.
The RTA, defined in the WTO as reciprocal preferential trade agreements between two or more partner,
have actually allowed countries to negotiate rules and commitments that go beyond what was possible
multilaterally. In turn, some of these rules have paved the way for discussion and agreements in the
WTO on issues including services, intellectual property, environmental standards, investment and
competition policies. However, the RTAs in themselves can not ensure a robust multilateral rules based
trade order, that can be done by WTO alone.
Given the prevailing protectionist sentiments in countries such as the USA adherence to WTO and its
dispute settlement mechanism is critical to ensure a rules-based and fair multilateral trading regime.
There is a growing clamor for much-needed reforms at the WTO. The multilateral PTAs also provide a
push to the need for these reforms. If successful, this could result in actually boosting international
economic cooperation.
16. With the global nuclear framework facing tremendous challenges on all three of its primary agendas
of non-proliferation, arms control, and disarmament, it needs to be fine-tuned as per the changing
geopolitical realities. Discuss.
Approach:
 Briefly write about the global nuclear framework.
 Highlight the challenges on the primary agendas of the global nuclear framework.
 Argue for the need to fine-tune the global nuclear framework as per emerging geopolitical realities.
Answer:
Nuclear weapons proliferation, whether by state or non- state actors, poses one of the greatest threats
to international security and existence of human species. Sustained efforts of the international
community have successfully upheld the global nuclear framework agenda of nuclear non-proliferation,
arms control and disarmament. However, the changing strategic equations and geopolitical scenario
where there is increased reliance on these weapons in security doctrines poses a different set of
challenges to these three agendas:
 Nuclear non-proliferation
o Repeated test of nuclear devices and missile systems by North Korea is a threat for the entire
region. And any deal without denuclearization may push neighbouring countries like Japan to
develop nuclear weapons.
o US withdrawal from Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and demand for an additional
deal cannot prevent Iran from possessing enrichment technology and be on nuclear threshold.
o Growing energy needs of countries also is pushing towards acquiring the nuclear stockpile.
 Arms control
o Breaking down of existing mechanisms such as the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty
(INF) and other US-Russia arms control pacts is leading to a new wave of nuclear modernization.
o Further, the ongoing and rapid development of various modern delivery systems makes the
possibility of negotiating new arms control mechanism negligible.

 Disarmament
o There is an explicit global divide over nuclear disarmament agreements.
o Lack of progress of the treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) has led to a
demand for the creation of new mechanisms to address challenges.
The existing instruments are unable to address these challenges and often contribute to them instead.
The existing mechanism which is created according to the cold war bi-polar world order is no longer
consistent with current multi-polar world order. Therefore, it is need of the hour to fine tune the current
regime:
 There is a need to understand that nuclear arms control is now governed by multiple nuclear
equations — U.S.-Russia, U.S.-China, U.S.-North Korea, India-Pakistan, India-China, but none is
standalone. Therefore, nuclear stability in today’s world cannot be ensured by the U.S. and Russia
alone
 The international community must uphold the concept of a shared future where unilateralism and
double standards in non-proliferation cannot continue. Thus, Non-Proliferation Treaty should be
modified accordingly.
 All the countries must work towards a comprehensive Nuclear Weapon Convention which is
committed to non-discriminatory as well as verifiable nuclear disarmament. Verifiability would help
establish any allegations of violation and take prompt action. For eg: Allegation of violation of INF
treaty by US and Russia needs a credible mechanism to establish violation of global nuclear
framework.
In the present time, the greater challenge is to understand that existing nuclear arms control
instruments can only be preserved if these evolve to take new realities into account. It is hoped that in
2020 Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons all States must
work collectively towards a new twenty-first-century global nuclear framework.
17. Identify the four modes of supply that GATS uses to define trade in services. What do you think will be
the impact of protectionist immigration policies by Western countries on India? Also give suggestions
to mitigate the negative effects.
Approach:
 Briefly explain GATS and its objectives.
 Enumerate the various modes of supply used by GATS to define of trade in services.
 Briefly discuss the trend towards increasing protectionist immigration measures and its impact on
India.
 Suggest remedies to check the impact of this trend.
Answer:
The General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) is a multilateral agreement under the WTO that was
negotiated in the Uruguay Round and came into effect in 1995. It aims to:
 Create a credible and reliable system of international trade rules.
 Ensure fair and equitable treatment of all participants (principle of non-discrimination).
 Stimulate economic activity through guaranteed policy bindings.
 And promote trade and development through progressive liberalization.
The GATS distinguishes between four modes of supplying services:
 Cross-border trade of services: It is defined to cover services flows from the territory of one
Member into the territory of another Member (e.g. banking or architectural services transmitted via
telecommunications or mail);
 Consumption: It refers to situations where a service consumer (e.g. tourist or patient) moves into
another Member's territory to obtain a service;
 Commercial presence: It implies that a service supplier of one Member establishes a territorial
presence, including through ownership or lease of premises, in another Member's territory to
provide a service (e.g. domestic subsidiaries of foreign insurance companies or hotel chains);
 Presence of natural persons: When persons of one Member enter the territory of another Member
to supply a service (e.g. accountants, doctors or teachers).
Protectionist immigration policies and India
The ‘Presence of natural persons’ in services is the most preferred mode of trade in services for India.
India has been a huge supplier of labor force, including the highly skilled professionals- doctors,
engineers etc. Therefore, India has been pushing for liberalization of this mode of trade in services. But
in contemporary times, there has been increasing trend towards protectionist immigration policies by
the Western countries. For eg: Tightening of visa regime for movement of skilled professionals by
countries like US, UK, Australia etc. This would have following impact on India:
 Impact on Service sector: It will restrict growth of the services sector in India. Thus, Export earnings
from services like ITeS, where India has a comparative advantage, will also get reduced.
 Impact on Employment and remittances: India’s large labor force would find it difficult to access
employment in other countries. This will also lead to reduction in remittances to India.
 Impact on companies: The restrictive visa regimes will also impact the Indian companies that are
operating in foreign countries.
 Impact on society: The large Indian Diaspora would face hardships and threat of deportation in the
country of their employment, which may create social tensions within India. The diaspora living in
other nations may also be subjected to a racist backlash.
Measures to be taken
 Highlight positive impact of skilled workers from abroad on the host’s economy such as billions of
dollars of taxes to US treasury by Indian IT companies and professionals, creating additional jobs, fill
the gap between demand of IT professionals and number of graduates from American university etc.
 Raise concerns in bilateral talks: There is need to strengthen negotiations with countries embarking
on protectionist policy. India can also convince them to make concessions for Indian professionals
and businesspersons such as Registered Traveller Scheme by UK.
 Settle issue through multilateral forums such as challenging violations by any country under GATS in
WTO and going through consultations and formal dispute settlement.
 Diversifying destination for Indian labour: India should focus on the regional groupings like RCEP
with liberalized services agreement, for diversifying the destination for the Indian labor abroad.
 Enhancing opportunities at home: There is need to increase domestic opportunities so that surging
labour force can be absorbed.
To tackle this situation in whole, Indian IT companies should take the restrictive regime as a challenge
and narrow down their core focus to innovation. They should shift their business model away from
competitive labour cost towards becoming a global innovation hub.
18. India needs to balance its growing water needs and larger security concerns with effective hydro-
diplomacy. Highlighting the challenges faced with regard to transboundary rivers, analyze this
statement in the context of India's riparian relations with its neighbours.
Approach:
 Define hydro-diplomacy and mention the challenges faced by India with regard to trans boundary
rivers.
 Explain how India should balance growing water needs and security concerns through hydro
diplomacy.
 Conclude briefly with the focus on importance of hydro-diplomacy.

Answer:
Hydro-diplomacy is a tool for states to balance interests related to national sovereignty while
strengthening regional cooperation with countries sharing common water resources. A UN report
estimates that by 2030, water demand in India will grow to almost 1.5 trillion cubic meters from
approximately 740 billion cubic meters requiring India to manage its needs using efficient hydro-
diplomacy.
Challenges with regard to transboundary rivers
 With Bangladesh: Though India and Bangladesh signed Ganges Water Treaty in 1996, Teesta River
Treaty still remains a bone of contention. Also, there is apprehension in Bangladesh regarding India’s
intentions for the interlinking of the rivers and the construction of the Tipaimukh dam in the
northeast
 With Pakistan: Any military or diplomatic escalation between India and Pakistan makes Indus Water
Treaty (IWT) of 1960 the focal point. Many experts have argued for renegotiation of the treaty.
 With Nepal: Since the Kosi Agreement of 1954, the two sides have not addressed water rights
issues. Such negligence caused 2008 floods affecting over 2.3 million people. Major projects such as
the Pancheswar are stuck for decades.
 With China: China’s dam-building and water division plans along the Brahmaputra (Yarlung Zangbo)
is a source of tension with India and Bangladesh. Indi and China do not have a River water treaty
and the agreement on hydrological data sharing is limited.
A case for rebalancing water needs and security concerns
 It is estimated that India, which is already water-stressed, will become 'water scarce' by 2025.
 In the subcontinent, growing population and increasing development are placing rising pressure on
the Ganges-Brahamaputra-Meghna (GBM) and Indus Basin posing potential challenges of conflicts.
 Internally, water sharing issues have raised passions and violence. Thus, water is also becoming
internal security challenge. Teesta is an example of sensitivities within the federal polity of India on
water relations with neighbouring countries.
 India has been releasing 5,900 tmcft of water every year to Pakistan. Many argue that this adversely
affects the interests Jammu and Kashmir, moreover Pakistan has been objecting to projects on the
western rivers by India using the provisions of the Indus water treaty, this has led to calls for
renegotiation of the treaty.
 Chinese aggressive posturing on the use of upper stream of Brahmaputra river has caused tensions
and trust deficit between two nations.
 Similarly, experts argue that 2008 Bihar floods were caused due to callousness of Nepalese
administration.
Way Forward
 A comprehensive approach is required with China on the river Brahmaputra. This include expansion
of current agreements to include year round data sharing and also the possibility of a River waters
treaty.
 The template of Bhutan can be used to deal with Nepal on water related issues. India and Bhutan
have been able to forge a mutually beneficial partnership in hydropower production and grid
connectivity to ensure a market for power produced. Nepal remains a buyer of electricity from India
despite large hydropower potential.
 With friendly countries such as Bhutan and Bangladesh a futuristic but ecologically sound idea of
joint river basin management can be considered.
 The BBIN framework, which includes the issue of hydro cooperation should be strengthened.
 Within the IWT India needs to utilise all the options to use its share of water.

 Hydro-diplomats have a role to play along with the multilateral institutions but local and
international NGOs also have a key role to play in bringing all stakeholders of these countries
together for cooperation on the most precious resource of all: water.
 India must utilise the new water data sharing platform created by the United Nations, Google, and
the European Commission that will track the world’s water bodies and help in achieving article Six of
the Sustainable Development Goals.
19. Why has the Gulf region been one of the important destinations for Indian migrants? Highlight the
challenges faced by migrants in the region. What steps can be taken to address them?
Approach:
 State the reasons for the gulf region being one of the important destinations for Indian migrants.
 Highlight the challenges faced by migrants in the gulf region.
 Mention the steps that can be taken for addressing these challenges.
 Use appropriate data and examples wherever necessary.
 Conclude on an optimistic note.
Answer:
There are around 8.5 million Indians workers in the Gulf, the vast majority of them are semi-skilled or
unskilled. These workers constitute an important source of income for India and are contributing to the
success and well-being of Gulf economies.
The persistence of wage inequalities and low growth in formal employment in India has spurred workers
to consider international migration as an option for improving their economic well-being. Oil boom of
the 1970s and increase in development activities attracted semi-skilled and unskilled labour from India.
The first Gulf war saw another surge in Indian workers to replace expelled workers from Arab countries
that did not fully support the effort to push back Iraqi forces from Kuwait. Migrants’ economic successes
has further encouraged other Indian youths towards migration and in this way, emigration from India to
the Gulf countries has increased over time.
Challenges faced by migrants in the gulf region:
 Denial of basic labour rights which has become worse following the economic downturn associated
with the recent drop in oil prices.
 Visa sponsorship or kafala system where workers require written consent from their sponsors to
change employers or exit the country.
 Domestic workers, mostly women, suffer from a lack of legal protection and grievance redressal
mechanism. They face a range of abuses including overwork, low wages, food deprivation, forced
confinement, and sexual abuse.
 Indigenization policies: The policies like“Nitaqat”, “Omanisation”, etc. which give more importance
to the local labour and ignore the foreign worker is another challenge.
 Harsh working conditions where they are unable to participate in the social and cultural activities.
 Security and safety risks due to political instability.
Steps that can be taken for addressing these challenges:
 India should consistently include diaspora concerns in all areas of the bilateral discussions with the
Gulf States. Bilateral representations should be codified in new MOUs.
 Strict legal action against recruiting firms/agencies in India that mislead and exploit the workers on
wages and debt.
o With the assistance of the Gulf States, the Indian government should establish emergency funds
that compensate Indian workers in the event that the companies choose to violate their
contracts.

 Increase budget and human resources of the Indian diplomatic and consular missions to enhance
India’s ability to adapt to the new requirements of migration management.
 Formalize and organize the involvement of labour-exporting state governments in India’s Gulf
policy priorities.
 Systematic mechanism should be deviced for collecting, compiling and disseminating information
about the overseas job opportunities and educational avenues in India.
Safeguarding the rights of the Indian diaspora in Gulf is the duty and responsibility of the Indian
government. Establishment of Indian workers resource Centre, Community Welfare Fund and labour
agreements with countries such as UAE and Saudi Arabia are key steps taken by the government over
the years. Adopting a more proactive approach to the diaspora affairs would not only safeguard India’s
economic interests, but will also help cement a mutual partnership with Gulf States and cultivate India’s
soft power in the region.
20. Critically assess the performance of SAARC as a regional grouping. Examine whether India needs to
shift its focus towards BIMSTEC as an alternative to SAARC.
Approach:
 Give a brief overview of SAARC and critically examine its success as a regional group.
 Give a brief introduction about BIMSTEC.
 Discuss whether India needs to shift its radar towards BIMSTEC as an alternative to SAARC.
Answer:
SAARC was established in 1985 and comprises of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India,
Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. It aims to accelerate regional cooperation for economic
growth, social progress and cultural development. It is a forum where heads of states discuss
pertinent regional issues. Additionally, Track II diplomacy has become one of the pillars of South Asian
integration efforts.
A few milestones achieved by SAARC include the South Asia Free Trade Area (SAFTA) agreement signed
in 2004, SAARC Disaster Management Centre and SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme and the SAARC Energy
Agreement 2014.
However, these achievements are limited and SAARC has not achieved its desirable potential as can be
understood by:
 The World Bank calls South Asia the least integrated region.
 Intra-regional trade is around 5% of South Asia’s total trade. Comparitively the figure for East Asia
(ASEAN) is 35% and Europe (EU) is 60%.
 19th summit has been postponed,,however, only 18 summits in more than three decades of
existence shows SAARC has been unable to meet regularly.
 SAARC has failed to evolve a common strategic outlook to deal with challenges such as terrorism or
climate change.
Reasons include:
 The asymmetry between India and other member make the smaller countries apprehensive
of India’s hegemony.
 Lack of trust between the two major countries India and Pakistan, due to cross -border
terrorist activities, among others, has further weakened SAARC .
 SAARC does not have any arrangement for resolving disputes or mediating conflicts.
 SAARC’s decision making based on the principle of unanimity has allowed countries to hold
back progress of many initiatives e.g. Initiatives such as the SAARC–Motor Vehicle
Agreement fell through and India’s proposal for SAARC satellite was abandoned following
Pakistan’s objections.
 SAARC countries have witnessed internal instability making them less focussed on regional
issues at various times.
 SAARC faces a shortage of resources, and countries have been reluctant to increase their
contributions.
 Given SAARC’s failures, member countries have turned to bilateralism, which in turn has adversely
affected the organisation.
In the context of the postponement of the 19 th Summit in 2016 and continued logjam at
SAARC, BIMSTEC has been seen as an alternative to foster regional cooperation. BIMSTEC was
formed in 1997, it comprises of Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan.
They lie in the littoral and adjacent areas of the Bay of Bengal constituting a contiguous regional entity.
BIMSTEC is preferred for the following reasons:
 BIMSTEC acts as a bridge between South Asia and South-East Asia. It has emerged as a
platform to test regional cooperation in the South Asian region
 It includes two influential regional powers: Thailand and India, which reduces the fear of
dominance by one power.
 BIMSTEC helps small countries like Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan to develop connectivity
with ASEAN countries, some of the fastest growing countries. It gives an impetus to India’s
“Act East Policy” and Thailand’s “Look West Policy”.
 Trade among the BIMSTEC member countries reached six percent in just a decade, while in SAARC, it
has remained around five percent since its inception.
 It will help in the socio-economic development of North-East India, where the fruits of Indian
economic growth haven’t reached adequately.
However, certain concerns regarding BIMSTEC remain such as:
 Infrequency of the BIMSTEC summits, as in its over 20 years of existence, only four BIMSTEC
summits have taken place.
 Delay in the adoption of the Free Trade Agreement, a framework that was agreed upon in
2004, fuels doubts about BIMSTEC’s efficacy.
 BIMSTEC Secretariat’s resource crunch in terms of money and manpower affects its
performance.
SAARC and BIMSTEC focus on geographically overlapping regions. However, this does not make
them equal alternatives. SAARC is a purely regional organisation, whereas BIMSTEC is an inter -
regional organization. They complement each other in terms of functions and goals. BIMSTEC
provides SAARC countries a unique opportunity to connect with ASEAN. Further, the success of
BIMSTEC does not render SAARC redundant; it adds a new chapter in regional cooperation in
South Asia.
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