Explore a curated collection of UPSC Mains Topic Wise Questions focused on International Relations, particularly examining the dynamics between India and Pakistan, known as Indo-Pak relations. Dive into a diverse array of questions meticulously designed to deepen your understanding and preparation for the UPSC Main examination. This resource offers a structured approach to mastering key concepts essential for comprehending and addressing the complexities of Indo-Pak relations. Whether you’re a novice seeking foundational knowledge or an advanced candidate refining your understanding, these questions provide valuable insights and practice opportunities. With a strategic emphasis on topic-wise questions, aspirants can enhance analytical skills and develop a comprehensive understanding of the historical, political, and strategic dimensions of Indo-Pak relations. Elevate your preparation, grasp essential insights, and optimize your performance in the UPSC Mains with proficiency in Indo-Pak relations within the realm of International Relations.
Q1. India’s Kargil victory rested on its successful effort to combine diplomacy with the use of force. Discuss. (2000, 15 Marks)
Answer: The Kargil conflict of 1999 stands as a testament to India’s ability to effectively combine diplomacy with military action. While a forceful military response was inevitable to evict Pakistani intruders, diplomatic efforts played a crucial role in isolating Pakistan and garnering international support for India’s position.
Diplomatic Maneuvers:
- Exposing Aggression: India actively engaged with international powers, highlighting the unprovoked nature of Pakistan’s incursion. This garnered sympathy and strengthened India’s position.
- Rallying Support: India adroitly leveraged its growing strategic partnerships, particularly with the US and Russia, to urge Pakistan to withdraw. This diplomatic pressure on Pakistan helped delegitimize their actions.
- Multilateral Forums: India effectively utilized international platforms like the UN Security Council to call for Pakistan’s withdrawal and underscore the threat to regional security.
Military Action in Tandem:
- Deterrence: The swift and decisive military response by India sent a strong message of deterrence, dissuading Pakistan from escalating the conflict.
- Calibrated Response: India’s military action remained focused on repelling the intrusion, avoiding civilian casualties in Pakistan and minimizing the risk of a wider war. This⑭⑭ ensured international backing for India’s cause.
Synergy for Success:
The success in Kargil stemmed from the well-coordinated interplay of diplomatic and military measures. Diplomacy isolated Pakistan, delegitimizing their aggression, while forceful military action secured the ultimate victory. This approach ensured a swift and decisive outcome while minimizing international repercussions.
Conclusion:
The Kargil victory showcased India’s maturing strategic approach. By effectively combining forceful military action with astute diplomacy, India secured its territorial integrity and emerged as a responsible regional power. This adept handling of the crisis serves as a valuable precedent for future security challenges.
Q2. What do you know about Siachin Dispute? (2000, 2 Marks)
Answer: Siachen Glacier: Long-standing dispute with Pakistan over control. Strategic due to glacial source of Indus River. Both India and Pakistan maintain military presence.
Q3. Why does India object to Kashmir being treated as a disputed territory? (2001, 2Marks)
Answer: India considers Kashmir an integral part of its territory, governed by the Indian Constitution. It rejects any claims suggesting Kashmir’s status is disputed. This position is based on the Instrument of Accession signed by the Maharaja of Kashmir in 1947.
Q4. Discuss the importance of the Agra Summit on Indo-Pakistan relations. (2003, 2 marks)
Answer: The 2001 Agra Summit, despite not yielding concrete agreements, held significance for Indo-Pakistan relations. It marked a high-level attempt to address core issues like Kashmir and terrorism. The direct leader-to-leader talks fostered dialogue and raised hopes for future cooperation.
Q5. What has been the nature of “Track II diplomacy” between India and Pakistan? (2003, 2 marks)
Answer: Track II diplomacy between India and Pakistan provides an informal channel for academics, retired diplomats, and civil society representatives to discuss critical issues and build trust in a non-governmental setting. This dialogue can supplement official talks and foster a conducive environment for resolving bilateral tensions.
Q6. Discuss the role played by the United States in promoting/hindering improved relations between India and Pakistan.. (2004, 15 marks)
Answer: The United States has played a complex and evolving role in India-Pakistan relations. Here’s a balanced analysis of its impact:
Promoting Engagement:
- Post-Cold War Shift: With the Cold War’s end, the US encouraged both nations to move beyond alliances and engage in dialogue. This led to initiatives like the Composite Dialogue Process (2004) that addressed core issues.
- Counterterrorism Cooperation: Shared concerns over terrorism, particularly after 9/11, fostered a sense of common purpose, pushing India and Pakistan to cooperate on intelligence sharing and counterterrorism efforts.
Hindering Progress:
- Arms Sales: US military aid to Pakistan, particularly during the Cold War and Afghan War, fueled Indian anxieties about a strategic tilt towards Pakistan. This created an imbalance and hampered trust-building.
- Kashmir Issue: The US’ reluctance to take a strong stance on Kashmir, a central dispute, frustrated both sides. This perceived neutrality limited its ability to act as a mediator.
The Way Forward:
- Balancing Interests: The US needs to navigate its strategic partnership with India and its historical ties with Pakistan. Engaging both bilaterally and encouraging regional cooperation can foster trust.
- Facilitating Dialogue: The US can play a constructive role by creating a conducive environment for dialogue. Encouraging confidence-building measures and back-channel diplomacy can pave the way for a resolution.
Conclusion:
The US influence is undeniable, but India and Pakistan ultimately hold the key to improved relations. The US can act as a facilitator, but success hinges on both nations’ willingness to address core issues and build trust.
Q7. Answer the following in 20 words: Hot Line between Islamabad and New Delhi. (2004, 2 marks)
Answer: Direct communication channel established in 1965 to prevent misunderstandings and facilitate crisis management between India and Pakistan.
Q8. Write about MFN status to India by Pakistan. (2005, 2 Marks)
Answer: Pakistan hasn’t accorded Most Favored Nation (MFN) status to India. This implies India may face higher tariffs on its exports to Pakistan compared to other WTO members.
Q9. Write about Simla Agreement in 20 words. (2006, 2 marks)
Answer: The Simla Agreement (1905) delineated the Tibet-Bhutan-British India border and regulated trade. China recognized Britain’s suzerainty over Bhutan
Q10. Write about major hurdles in Indo-Pak ties in 20 words. (2008, 2 marks)
Answer: Trust deficit, border tensions, and the Kashmir issue are the major hurdles impeding Indo-Pak ties
- Trust deficit: Following the partition of India in 1947, there has been a long history of mistrust between India and Pakistan. This mistrust has been fueled by wars, terrorist attacks, and cross-border violence.
- Border tensions: The Line of Control (LoC) that separates India and Pakistan in Kashmir is one of the most militarized borders in the world. There are frequent ceasefire violations along the LoC, which lead to casualties on both sides.
- Kashmir issue: The Kashmir issue is a major source of tension between India and Pakistan. Both countries claim all of Kashmir, and the dispute has led to two wars between the two countries.
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