In the dynamic landscape of the UPSC Mains examination, the Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) optional paper holds a significant place, demanding a nuanced understanding of global affairs and the intricacies of India’s diplomatic relationships. One key thematic area that has consistently featured in the examination is “India and the Global Centres of Power.” This blog aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the PSIR optional topic by delving into the wise analysis of previous year questions spanning the years 2013 to 2023. By scrutinizing the evolving trends and recurrent themes within this timeframe, aspirants can gain valuable insights into the changing dynamics of India’s position on the global stage and the factors that shape its interactions with major global players.
As we navigate through the past decade’s worth of questions, we will unravel the multidimensional aspects of India’s foreign policy, diplomatic challenges, and the country’s stance on critical global issues. From economic partnerships to strategic alliances, understanding the historical context and evolving perspectives presented in the questions can be instrumental in crafting a comprehensive strategy for tackling this vital section of the PSIR optional syllabus. Whether you are a UPSC aspirant seeking a strategic approach to PSIR preparation or a curious mind interested in the intersection of international relations and India’s role in the global arena, this exploration of previous year questions is bound to be an illuminating journey.
India and the Global Centres of Power – Previous Year Questions (UPSC CSE Mains PSIR Optional)
India -USA
1. Analyse the developments in the Indo-US relations since the end of the Gulf War. Give the reasons for changes, if any, in the South Asia policy of USA. (1992)
2. Despite some problems which USA is facing in Asia, it is unlikely that pressures on India over the nuclear issue, Kashmir and missile programme will be released. Discuss. (1994)
3. What, in your option, is the objective of the US policy in South Asia-status quo or peaceful change? Examine the strategies adopted by Washington in this regard. (1995)
4. Comment: Diego Garcia. (1997)
5. Examine Pakistan as a factor in Indo-American relations during the Cold War. (2001)
6. Examine the areas of cooperation and conflict in the Indo-American relations. (2003)
7. Comprehensively examine the major developments/trends in Indo-US relations since the early 1990s. Do you visualise the strengthening of ties between the two Nation? Substantiate. (2007)
8. Examine India’s response to the Af-Pak policy of the US. (2010)
9. Explain the role of the Parliament in the shaping of 123 Agreement between India and the US on Civil-nuclear Cooperation. (2011)
10. Do you agree with the view that the USA is of late willing to treat India as a partner rather than merely a camp-follower? Give reasons for your answer. (2014)
11. Before the year 2000, the Indo-U.S. relationship has been marked more with estrangement than cordiality. Why? (2015)
12. Comment on India’s growing relationship with USA in the background of constrained relations between India and China. (2016)
13. The natural behaviour of India and the United States is likely to serve each other’s interest. Hence, a deliberate strategy of dovetailing their efforts will obviously benefit both, Elaborate. (2017)
14. Discuss the role of Indian diaspora in promoting Indo-US relations. (2018)
15. Discuss the significance of Indo-US strategic partnership and its implications for India’s security and national defence. (2020)
16. Explain the significance fo Basic Exchange and Co-operation Agreement (BECA) for Indo-US strategic relations.(2022)
India- EU
1. Comment: India and the European Union. (2002)
2. Comment: Examine the trends in India’s relations with the European Union. (2007)
3. Examine the nature of the issues currently being debated with the European Union. (2010)
4. “EU – India relations have a long way to go before they can purposely be termed strategic.” Discuss. (2014)
5. Explain Britain’s ouster from EU and bring out its consequences on world economy in general and India in particular. (2016)
6. Explain India’s relations with the European Union in the context of Brexit. (2021)
India-Japan
1. Comment: Emerging areas of co-operation between India and Japan. (2005)
2. Examine the recent developments in India-Japan relationship. (150 words) (2013)
3. Evaluate the recent changes in Indo – Japan relations. (2014)
4. Do you subscribe to the idea that in the new evolving Asian dynamics, Japan and India have not only moved closer in economic cooperation, but also in strategic partnership? (2017)
5. Do you agree that the growing assertiveness of China is leading to multilayered Indo-Japan relations? Comment. (2018)
6. What are the notable features of the recently concluded pact or the Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA) between India and Japan? How is it likely to address the security concerns of India? (2020)
7. What are the main drivers fo India-Japan Strategic and Global Partnership?(2022)
India-China
1. Examine the changes in China’s India policy in 1990’s. Do you attribute these changes to the altered global environment or to the domestic factors? (1996)
2. Examine the recent developments in Sino-Indian relations. (2002)
3. Comment: Impact of Sino-Indian conflict of 1962 on International Politics. (2003)
4. ‘The relationship between India and China is characterised by high levels of conflict and cooperation.’ Comment. (2008)
5. Do you think that India should sign a treaty with China on water sharing of Brahmaputra River, similar to what she did with Nepal and other neighbouring states? (2011)
6. Is there any linkage between a shift in China’s relations with Japan to a perceived shift in her relations with India? Examine in the light of China’s so- called ‘anti- encirclement struggle’. (150 words) (2012)
7. “Some of the major changes that occurred in India’s foreign policy after the Sino – India war in 1962 were within the larger framework of continuity.” Discuss. (2014)
8. Illustrate the main causes of tension between India and China. Suggest the possibilities of improving relationship. (2016)
9. How is the ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ of China going to affect India-China relations? (2017)
10. Critically assess the evolving convergence of India and China in the areas of trade and environment. (2018)
11. Describe briefly China’s ‘One Belt One Road (OBOR)’ Initiative and analyze India’s major concerns. (2019)
12. What are the current issues in Brahmaputra River water sharing between India and China?(2019)
13. Critially examine India’s position on South China Sea Dispute. (2019)
14. Explain the defence and foreign policy options of India to address the challenges emerging out of the current India-China standoff at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). (2020)
15. Examine the Geo-strategic points of contention in the bilateral relationship between India and China. (2021)
16. Critically examine the rise of People’s Republic of China (PRC) as a great power and its implications on Asian Political order.(2022)
India-Russia
1. Comment: Indo-Russian Summit 1997. (1999)
2. Comment: Areas of cooperation between India and Russia. (2003)
3. Discuss the present state of Indo-Russian relations. (2006)
4. Analyse the drivers of Indo-Russian relations in the post-Cold-War era. (2014)
5. The recent differences between India and Russia are the result of misconceptions than facts. Elucidate. (2017)
6. ‘Relations between India and Russia are rooted in history, mutual trust and mutually beneficial cooperations.’ Discuss. (2021)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. FAQ: What are the key global centres of power in the context of India’s international relations?
Answer: The global centres of power, often referred to as geopolitical hotspots, include major nations and institutions that wield significant influence in international affairs. Key players for India encompass the United States, China, Russia, the European Union, and emerging regional powers. India strategically engages with these centres to secure its national interests, foster economic growth, and contribute to global governance.
2. FAQ: How does India balance its relationships with the United States and Russia as global powerhouses?
Answer: India maintains a nuanced and balanced approach in its relations with the United States and Russia. While cultivating strategic partnerships with both nations, India refrains from aligning exclusively with any bloc. Historically, India and Russia share a longstanding diplomatic history, especially in defense and technology. Simultaneously, India has strengthened ties with the U.S., particularly in trade, technology, and counterterrorism, demonstrating its commitment to a multi-aligned foreign policy.
3. FAQ: What role does India play in regional and global economic alliances?
Answer: India actively participates in various economic alliances, such as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), G20, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). These platforms provide India with opportunities to collaborate on economic issues, trade agreements, and development initiatives. Engaging in regional and global economic forums allows India to foster economic growth, address challenges like climate change, and contribute to shaping international economic policies.
4. FAQ: How does India navigate its relationship with China, considering both economic cooperation and strategic competition?
Answer: India’s relationship with China is characterized by a complex interplay of economic cooperation and strategic competition. While both nations engage in trade and investment, border disputes and geopolitical concerns create challenges. India seeks to balance economic benefits with safeguarding its territorial integrity, contributing to a delicate diplomatic dance between cooperation and competition in the Sino-Indian relationship.
5. FAQ: How does India contribute to global governance and international institutions?
Answer: India actively participates in international institutions like the United Nations, WTO, and IMF, contributing to global governance and decision-making. As a responsible stakeholder, India advocates for reforms in these institutions to reflect contemporary geopolitical realities. Its involvement in peacekeeping missions, commitment to sustainable development, and advocacy for a multipolar world underline India’s role in shaping the future of global governance.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
