Embarking on the challenging journey of preparing for the UPSC Mains examination with Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) as your optional subject requires meticulous planning and a comprehensive understanding of past question patterns. In this blog series, we delve into the wealth of knowledge contained in the previous year questions from 2013 to 2023, focusing specifically on the India and South Asia section. This meticulous examination of past trends aims to equip aspirants with a strategic approach, enabling them to navigate the nuances of PSIR optional papers effectively.
As we navigate through the landscape of PSIR Optional Topic-Wise Previous Year Questions, our focus on India and South Asia sheds light on the dynamic geopolitical and socio-political dimensions of the region. By analyzing the questions posed over the past decade, we not only decipher the examiner’s preferences but also gain insights into the evolving nature of India’s foreign policy, its regional dynamics, and the intricate interplay of political forces in South Asia. Join us on this intellectual expedition as we unravel the historical tapestry of PSIR optional questions, providing a roadmap for aspirants to navigate the complex terrain of the UPSC Mains examination with confidence and precision.
India and South Asia – Previous Year Questions (UPSC CSE Mains PSIR Optional)
Regional Co-operation: SAARC – past performance and future prospects.
1. “Regional cooperation makes sense only in the event of there being, at least as the bottom line, a degree of ideological cohesion and or economic dependence. The SAARC members have neither.” Comment. (1994)
2. Comment: SAARC. (1998)
3. Comment: SAARC: Problems and Prospects (2001)
4. “The establishment of South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation (SAARC) has opened the gates of mutual cooperation among the States of South Asia.” In the light of this statement examine India’s role in the South Asian region. (2006)
5. “Domestic turmoil in neighbouring South Asian countries often constitutes a strain on Indian foreign policy.” Discuss with illustrations. (2007)
6. Identify the constraints/challenges to the regional cooperation in South Asia. (2015)
7. Sometimes we visualize that SAARC’s efforts come to halt because of various impediments to regional cooperation.” Elaborate with reasonable examples of impediment. (2016)
8. Evaluate India’s stand on the recent Rohingya refugee issue. (2018)
9. Outline the reasons of low volume of trade in the SAARC region. (2020)
10. Why South Asia is considered as the world’s politically and economically least integrated region? Explain. (2021)
11. Discuss the ways and means to realise greater economic co-operation among the Member States of South Asia.(2022)
South Asia as a Free Trade Area
1. Comment: Prospects of a free trade area in South Asia. (1996)
2. What are the impediments in the development of South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA)?(2017)
- India-Pakistan Relations
1. Comment: Indus water Treaty. (1991)
2. Keeping in view the global developments during the last few years, what are the prospects of cooperative and friendly relations between India and Pakistan. (1993)
3. It is said that India bashing by its neighbouring countries is directly or indirectly linked to their internal social conflicts. Explain with the help of developments in Indo-Pak and Indo- Srilankan relations. (1995)
4. Comment: Islamic factor in Indo-Pak Relations. (1996)
5. ‘Indo-Pak relationship veers around the peaceful settlement of the Kashmir issue.’ Critically evaluate various alternatives for its solution. (2000)
6. Explain the importance and limitations of recent Confidence Building Measures in Indo-Pak relations. (2005)
7. Critically review the progress of India-Pakistan peace process since the Kargil War. (2007)
8. What are the political and environmental contexts of the Siachen Glacier conflict? Comment on the possibility of environmental peace – keeping and collaborative arrangements being worked out with Pakistan on this aspect. (250 words) (2012)
9. Discuss the shift of India’s foreign policy towards Pakistan in light of Pathankot incident.(2016)
10. “Despite the differences between India and Pakistan on various issues, Indus Water Treaty has stood the test of times.” In the light of this statement, discuss the recent developments over this issue. (2017)
- India -Sri Lanka Relations
1. Comment: Role and consequences of IPKF in Sri Lanka. (2002)
- India – Bangladesh Relations
1. Comment: Contending issues between India and Bangladesh. (1998)
2. Comment: India’s role in the independence of Bangladesh. (2003)
3. Give an account of the major contending issues in Indo-Bangladesh relations. Assess the prospects for greater cooperation between the two countries. (2004)
4. Comment: Identify the persistent points of friction between India and Bangladesh at present.(2007)
5. Analyze the impact of hydropolitics on Indo-Bangladesh relations. (2020)
6. Discuss the steps required to realise ‘hydro-co-operation’ between India and Bangladesh.(2022)
- India-Nepal Relations
1. Discuss some of the major issues of conflict and cooperation between India, Nepal and Bhutan. (1999)
2. Comment: Distinguishing features of Indo-Nepal Relations. (2004)
3. Examine India’s role in strategic terms with regard to the land-locked countries in South Asia. With regard to Nepal, to what extent has the involvement of major powers such as China, the US and the EU impacted India’s strategic interests? (2009)
4. Discuss the future prospects of Indo-Nepal relations in the context of the recent publication of new Nepalese map wrongly claiming Indian territory. (2020)
- India-Bhutan Relations
1. “The Treaty of Perpetual Peace and Friendship between India and Bhutan needs to be revised with more pragmatic, realistic obligations and responsibilities.” Comment. (2017)
India’s “Look East” policy
1. Comment: “Look East” policy of India. (2002)
2. Comment: Prospects and problems of India’s relations with South-East Asia. (2004)
3. Comment: India’s interest in ASEAN. (2005)
4. Comment: What are the motivations for India’s ‘Look East7 policy? (2007)
5. Do you think that India’s ‘Look East policy would help a common Asian market, unlike European common market? (2009)
6. Would it be to India’s benefit if it were to pursue a more serious relationship with South-East Asia? Critically evaluate. (2010)
7. Explain the major flaws in India’s ‘Look East Policy’. Is it possible successfully in view of China’s emergence as a high-tech power in Asia-Pacific? (2011)
8. “Despite the potentialities, India’s ‘Look East Policy’ requires a major course correction.” Discuss. (200 words) (2012)
9. What are the hope aspirations of Look East Policy of India? Explain. (2016)
10. Analyse the significance of India’s Look East Policy in the light of concerns of the indigenous peoples of North-east India. (2018)
11. Discuss the strategic implications of India’s ‘Look East Policy’ transforming into ‘Act East Policy’. (150 words) (2021)
12. What are the implications of ‘Look-East’ Policy on the north-eastern region of India?(2022)
Impediments to regional cooperation: river water disputes; illegal cross-border migration; ethnic conflicts and insurgencies; border disputes.
1. Analyze the basic causes of insurgency and terrorism in two major areas that are affected in the country. In this regard, to what extent have state policies to counter terrorism been effective in these areas? (2009)
2. Assess the problems being faced by India on account of illegal migration into the country.(2010)
3. Discuss the implications of ethnicity and nation-building in South Asia, but their impact in the relation of states without South Asia. (2011)
4. Illustrate the issue of illegal cross-border migration in South Asia and its impact on regional alliances and bilateral relations. (150 words) (2012)
5. Ethnic conflicts and insurgencies in NorthEast India can be better managed by improving relations with the neighbouring countries. Substantiate the statement with suitable examples. (2015)
6. River water disputes are emerging as a major source of irritation between India and its neighbours. Identify the sources of conflicts and suggest the remedial measures. (2015)
7. How does cross-border terrorism impede the achievements of peace and security in South Asia? (2020)
8. Write a brief analysis of the ethnic conflicts and cross-border migrations along IndiaMyanmar and India-Bangladesh borders. (2021)
9. Discuss the consequences of illegal cross-border migration in India’s north-eastern region.(2022)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What key geopolitical challenges has India faced in South Asia over the past decade?
Exploring the intricacies of India’s relations with its South Asian neighbors, this question dives into the geopolitical challenges that have shaped the region. From border disputes to diplomatic strategies, understanding these dynamics is crucial for aspirants preparing for the UPSC Mains examination in Political Science and International Relations.
Q: How has India’s foreign policy evolved concerning its South Asian neighbors from 2013 to 2023?
Delving into the nuances of India’s foreign policy, this question seeks to unravel the shifts and transformations in the country’s approach towards its South Asian counterparts. Analyzing diplomatic initiatives, alliances, and regional collaborations, aspirants can gain a comprehensive understanding of India’s strategic vision in the evolving global scenario.
Q: What role does India play in regional organizations like SAARC and BIMSTEC, and how has this role evolved over the years?
Understanding the dynamics of regional organizations is crucial for aspirants opting for PSIR as their optional subject. This question explores India’s participation in organizations such as SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation), shedding light on the changing nature of regional cooperation.
Q: How have historical events shaped the political landscape of South Asia, and what impact have they had on India’s relations with its neighbors?
Examining the historical context of South Asian politics, this question allows aspirants to connect past events with present-day geopolitical realities. From partition to independence struggles in neighboring countries, this inquiry provides a comprehensive overview of the historical underpinnings that continue to influence regional dynamics.
Q: In what ways has India addressed common challenges like terrorism and climate change in collaboration with South Asian nations?
Focusing on shared challenges, this question explores India’s collaborative efforts with South Asian nations in tackling issues such as terrorism and climate change. Understanding the cooperative measures taken by countries in the region not only enhances knowledge of international relations but also prepares aspirants for questions that assess a candidate’s awareness of contemporary issues.
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