Studying International Relations (IR) is an indispensable component for aspirants aiming to excel in the competitive civil service examinations conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The UPSC International Relations notes serve as a comprehensive guide that navigates through the complex web of global affairs, geopolitical dynamics, and diplomatic intricacies. These meticulously crafted notes not only aid candidates in mastering the intricate concepts of international politics but also provide a nuanced understanding of contemporary issues that shape the world. With a focus on fostering analytical thinking and a deep comprehension of international events, the UPSC International Relations notes play a pivotal role in empowering aspirants to navigate the challenges of the Civil Services Examination, thereby equipping them to contribute meaningfully to the public service sector in India. In this journey towards a diplomatic and strategic understanding of global affairs, these notes serve as a beacon for UPSC aspirants, guiding them through the vast and dynamic landscape of international relations.
| Topic | Sub – Topic |
| Background and Overview | India’s Relations: Evolution of India’s Foreign Policy – Understanding and Determinants |
| 1947-1962: Internationalist, Idealist and Non-Aligned India | Panchsheel |
| Setback with China: 1962 | |
| The Colombo Conference and Limits of Non-Aligned Movement | |
| A brief overview of the Non Aligned Movement | |
| 1962-1991: Period of Self Help Approach | The Chinese and India Nuclear Test and After |
| Changes with Continuity | |
| The Simla Agreement | |
| 1991 and After: Era of “Pragmatic” Foreign Policy | Non-Alignment: Relevance of the Idea and the Movement |
| India’s Policy of Non-Alignment | |
| India and Neighborhood | India – Bangladesh – Background, Evolution, Recent Issues (Teesta Dispute, Border Issues) |
| The Maritime Boundary Award | |
| Economic Cooperation, Trade, Energy, Connectivity, Security etc | |
| India and Bhutan – Background, Evolution, Recent Issues (Hydropower, Security etc) | |
| Incidents in Doklam Area 2017- India-Bhutan-China | |
| India and Nepal – Background, Evolution, Recent Issues (Security, Water, Energy, Connectivity and Border) | |
| The BBIN Framework – Vision, Potential, Recent Developments | |
| India-Sri Lanka – Background, Evolution, Recent Issues (Fishermen, China Factor, SL Tamil Issue) | |
| Economic Cooperation and Trade, Development, HADR | |
| India-Maldives – Background, Evolution, Recent Dynamics, Economic and Development Cooperation, Security Issues | |
| India and Pakistan – Indus Water Treaty, Security, Border Issues and Recent Concerns | |
| India-Pakistan Relations A Framework: Dialogue-Disruption-Dialogue | |
| The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) | |
| India and Afghanistan – SPA, Heart of Asia, Connectivity and Trade, Security (Rise of Taliban) | |
| India-Myanmar Relations – Trade, Security, Development Assistance, Chinese Issue, Connectivity | |
| Myanmar: The Gateway to South East Asia | |
| Regional Groupings | South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) – Background, Evolution, Principles of SAARC Charter |
| Causes for the Limited Progress of SAARC and Steps to Strengthen SAARC | |
| India’s Contributions to SAARC | |
| Recent Developments within SAARC | |
| Deadlock at SAARC: Options for Regional Cooperation in South Asia | |
| SAARC Preferential Trade Arrangement (SAPTA) | |
| South Asian Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) – Key Challenges, Steps to Strengthen | |
| BIMSTEC – Charter, Organisation, Success and Failures | |
| India and China | Background and Evolution |
| Boundary Question and Territorial Integrity | |
| India-China Border– Western, Eastern and Middle Sectors | |
| Confrontation at the Borders: A Pattern | |
| Progress in Negotiations Since 2005 | |
| The Incident in Doklam Area-2017 | |
| Other Issues – Trade and Economy, Water Issues, Geo-Strategic Competition | |
| India’s Response Mechanism | |
| The BCIM Corridor | |
| OBOR/BRI | |
| India and CPEC | |
| The Rise of China and India | |
| The Pakistan Factor | |
| The USA Factor | |
| The Russia Factor | |
| India and South East Asia | Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) |
| India and South East Asia – Background, Cultural Ties | |
| From Look East to Act East: Evolving Policy Framework | |
| Taking the Look East Forward: Look East 2.0 or the New Look East | |
| The Act East: Action and Implementation-Oriented Approach to a Wider East | |
| India-ASEAN – Recent Developments, Trade, Investment, Connectivity, Security, China Issue | |
| RCEP Issue – Significance, India’s Current Concerns | |
| The South China Sea Disputes and India’s Position and Further Action | |
| India and Singapore – Background, Trade and Investment, Smart Cities, Defence Cooperation | |
| India and Vietnam | |
| India and Indo-Pacific | India and Japan – Background, Economy and Trade, Bilateral Assistance, Tech Cooperation, Connectivity |
| Geo-Strategic Dimension and Island Dispute with China | |
| India and South Korea – Background, Economy, Cultural Ties | |
| India and Australia – Background, Institutional Mechanism, Political Cooperation, Trade Relations and Civil Nuclear Cooperation | |
| India and the Pacific Island Countries – FIPIC | |
| Indo-Pacific – Concept | |
| India and the Indian Ocean | The Indian Ocean – Significance, Regions, Population |
| India and the Indian Ocean – Vision for Maritime Security, India as Net Security Provider, The Geo-Strategic Dimensions | |
| Prime Ministers Visit to the Indian Ocean Countries 2015 – Mauritius, Seychelles | |
| Push for A Comprehensive Maritime Policy | |
| Project Mausam | |
| Blue Economy | |
| The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) | |
| Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) | |
| India and West Asia | West Asia – Background, India’s Focus, Look West Policy |
| India-GCC Relations: Key Aspects, Energy Security, People, Economic and Security Ties | |
| India-Saudi Arabia – Background, Economy, People, Security, Energy | |
| India-UAE – Background, Economy, Energy, Strategic Partnership and Recent Momentum | |
| India-Iran – Background, Recent Momentum, Chabahar Port, Economy, Energy Trade | |
| India-Israel – Background, Defence and Security, People and Trade, Agriculture, Recent Momentum (Gaza Attack) | |
| India-Palestine – Palestinian Issue, India’s Position, Financial Assistance, Recent Development, Two State Solution | |
| India and Central Asia | India and Central Asia – Background, Connect Central Asia Policy |
| India-Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan | |
| Ashgabat Agreement | |
| Shanghai Cooperation Organisation – India and SCO, Limitations, Way Forward | |
| The International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) | |
| India and Russia | Russia – Background, Borders and Resources, Politics |
| India and Russia – Strategic Partnership, Political Relations, Defence and Security, Economic Relations, Energy, Science and Technology, Cultural Ties | |
| 70 Years: An Assessment of Prospects and Challenges | |
| India and Europe | India and the European Union – Background, Political and Security, Economy and Trade, S&T, Energy and Environment, Education and Culture |
| The European Union (EU) – Setup, Evolution, Unique Identity, Recent Developments | |
| India-EU FTA or the BTIA – India-Meeting on BTIA Talks, Recent Developments | |
| India and France – Background, Recent Visits and Dialogue, Security and Defence, Tech: Space, Civil Nuclear Energy, Economy and Trade | |
| India and Germany – Background, Dialogues, Defence, Economy, S&T | |
| India and United Kingdom – Background, Bilateral Ties, Dialogue, Economic, Defence, Education, S&T, Diaspora | |
| India and Brexit | |
| India and the United States of America | India and the United States – Current Status and Background |
| Civil Nuclear Deal, Defence Cooperation, Political Ties, Security Cooperation, Foundational Agreements, Economy, Trade & Investment | |
| Major Cooperation and Issues – Economy, IPR, Energy, Climate Change, Education & Culture, Space, S&T | |
| Indian Diaspora in the USA | |
| Global Public Health | |
| The Pakistan Factor | |
| Recent Trends | |
| The China Factor | |
| The Indo-Pacific | |
| The Russia Factor | |
| The Joint Declaration 2017 | |
| Way Forward | |
| India and Latin America | History and Geography |
| India and South America – Current Imperatives and Historical Dynamics, Trade and Investment, Food and Energy Security, Defence, China Factor, Regional Institutions | |
| India and Africa – Background and Evolution, Recent Dynamics, Economy, Investments, Development Partnership, Security, Connectivity – AAGC, Challenges and Opportunities, Way Forward For India | |
| Organisations, Groupings and Institutions in International Relations | United Nations Organisation – Charter and Mandate, The Principle Organs |
| Security Council | |
| The General Assembly, – Step by Step Actions, | |
| Economic and Social Council | |
| Trusteeship Council | |
| International Court of Justice | |
| Specialized Agencies, Programmes and Funds – | |
| Other Bodies with UN Partnership | |
| UN Reforms | |
| India and the United Nations – UN reforms & India, Indias case of Permanent Membership of Council | |
| The Permanent Court of Arbitration | |
| The International Criminal Court | |
| The Bretton Woods Institutions : IMF and World Bank & Washington Consensus | |
| WTO – Mandate, Dispute Resolution, Doha Round, Key issues & challenges- Developed vs Developing nations, TRIPS, TRIPS+ | |
| United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) | |
| Asian Development Bank (ADB) | |
| Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) | |
| BRICS – Members, BRICS+, NDB, Contingency Reserve Arrangement, India’s approach, Significance & Challenges | |
| AIIB – The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank | |
| IBSA Forum – Organisational Structure, IBSA Fund | |
| Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) | |
| The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) | |
| The Commonwealth grouping | |
| Important Groupings – G7, G20, G77 | |
| KEY ISSUES IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS | Important Treaties/Conventions/Protocols/Agreements |
| Global Commons – UNCLOS & Maritime Zones – Territorial Sea, Contiguous Zone, Exclusive Economic Zone, Continental Shelf, High Seas, The International Tribunal For the Law of the Seas(ITLOS), Ocean Garbage Patches- Case of Multilateral Action. | |
| Global Commons – The Outer Space Treaty, The Antarctica Treaty , The Arctic Council, Atmosphere – UNFCCC, COP-21 | |
| Global Commons – The International Solar Alliance, The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) , Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Partnership (REEEP), International Energy Agency (IEA) , Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21) | |
| Security – India’s Nuclear Policy, MECR – Wassenaar Arrangement, The Nuclear Suppliers Group, Australia Group, MTCR, | |
| Security – NPT, Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons,Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty, Disarmament- Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Nuclear Security Summit | |
| Terrorism – International Efforts, Four Pillars of Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, Key UN Steps | |
| Terrorism – Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee, Comprehensive Convention on Terrorism, Key Conventions, Financial Action Task Force (FATF) | |
| Humanitarian Issues: Human Rights/Migration/ Refugees – Human Rights & Human Rights Council, | |
| Humanitarian Issues:- Migration/Refugees – Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), The Rohingya Issue, International Organisation for Migration (IOM) | |
| Key Issues/Conflicts – The North Korean Issue & its Nuclear Capability issue, India and North Korea | |
| Key Issues/Conflicts – The Syrian Issue – India & Syria, Yemen Conflict – Implications & Indias stand, | |
| Key Issues/Conflicts – Russia-Ukraine War Issue & India’s Stand, Israel – Hamas war & Indias stand | |
| Indian Diaspora | India’s Diaspora Around the World – Defining Diaspora & Patterns, Characteristics |
| Migration Trends – Old & New Diaspora & Gulf Diaspora – Persian Gulf Countries | |
| India’s Diaspora – Status, Success and Future | |
| Issues and challenges – Rights and Changing Policies in Gulf, Protectionism & Nationalist Sentiments in USA, Xenophobia & Violence, Ethnic Ties in the Old Diaspora Countries | |
| Government Policy and Steps & Way Forward and Overseas Citizens of India |
International Relations in the UPSC Syllabus
The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) syllabus for the Civil Services Examination includes a section on International Relations (IR). The IR component is a significant part of the General Studies Paper-II (GS-II) in the Main Examination. The purpose of including this section is to assess the candidate’s understanding of global issues, international events, and their impact on India.
Here is a broad overview of the International Relations syllabus for UPSC:
- India and its neighborhood relations:
- Bilateral, regional, and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
- Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests.
- Bilateral relations:
- India’s relations with neighboring countries.
- India’s relations with major powers.
- India and the world:
- Indian diaspora.
- Important events in world affairs.
- International institutions:
- Role and functions of institutions like the United Nations, World Bank, IMF, WTO, etc.
- Issues related to the governance of global commons (climate change, biodiversity, etc.).
- Conflict and security issues:
- Nuclear policy of India.
- Recent conflicts involving India.
- Recent developments in the field of science and technology, space, and cyberspace:
- Achievements and developments in space and technology.
- Issues related to cybersecurity.
- Security challenges and their management in border areas:
- Linkages of organized crime with terrorism.
- Various security forces and agencies and their mandate.
- Important International institutions, agencies, and fora:
- United Nations Security Council (UNSC), International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, World Trade Organization (WTO), BRICS, G20, etc.
Candidates are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of these topics and be able to analyze global events and their implications for India. Moreover, they need to be aware of the historical context, current developments, and future trends in international relations.
UPSC International Relations Study Guide
Studying international relations for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam requires a comprehensive approach, covering a wide range of topics related to global affairs, diplomacy, geopolitics, international organizations, and more. Here’s a study guide to help you navigate through the essential aspects of international relations for the UPSC exam:
1. Understanding the Syllabus:
- Familiarize yourself with the UPSC syllabus for international relations. The syllabus typically includes topics like international events, institutions, political science, and India’s role in international affairs.
2. Reading List:
- Start with fundamental textbooks for international relations, such as “World Politics” by David W. Ziegler, “International Relations” by Joshua S. Goldstein and Jon C. Pevehouse, and “An Introduction to International Relations” by Richard Devetak.
3. Newspapers and Magazines:
- Stay updated on current affairs through newspapers like The Hindu, The Indian Express, and magazines like Yojana and Kurukshetra. Focus on international news and editorials related to global politics.
4. International Relations Journals:
- Explore academic journals such as Foreign Affairs, International Affairs, and The World Today. These journals provide in-depth analyses of global issues and can help you develop a nuanced understanding.
5. Study India’s Foreign Policy:
- Understand India’s foreign policy objectives, historical context, and diplomatic relations. Key areas to focus on include India’s relations with neighboring countries, major powers, and its role in international organizations.
6. United Nations and International Organizations:
- Study the structure, functions, and objectives of the United Nations (UN) and other important international organizations like WTO, IMF, World Bank, etc. Be aware of India’s participation and role in these institutions.
7. Treaties and Agreements:
- Familiarize yourself with important international treaties and agreements that involve India. Understand the implications and outcomes of these treaties on India’s foreign policy.
8. Security Issues:
- Explore global security challenges, including terrorism, nuclear proliferation, and cyber threats. Understand India’s stance on these issues and its contributions to global security.
9. Geopolitics:
- Study the geopolitical dynamics of different regions, with a focus on areas that have a direct impact on India’s security and interests.
10. Historical Context:
- Understand the historical context of major international events and conflicts. Analyze how historical events shape current international relations.
11. Mock Tests and Previous Years’ Papers:
- Practice solving mock tests and previous years’ question papers to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and improve your time management skills.
12. Revision:
- Regularly revise the topics you have covered to reinforce your understanding and ensure better retention.
Additional Tips:
- Develop critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze global events from multiple perspectives.
- Engage in group discussions and debates on international relations topics to enhance your analytical and communication skills.
FAQs on UPSC International Relations Notes:
Q: What is the significance of International Relations in the UPSC exam?
International Relations is an integral part of the UPSC Civil Services exam as it covers global issues, diplomatic relations, and international affairs. It helps candidates understand the dynamics of international politics and its impact on India.
Q: How should I start preparing for International Relations in UPSC?
Begin by building a strong foundation in basic concepts and theories of international relations. Follow current affairs related to global events and understand their implications for India. Refer to standard textbooks and study materials recommended for UPSC preparation.
Q: What are the key topics to cover in International Relations for UPSC?
Important topics include international organizations, bilateral and multilateral relations, global institutions, conflict and security issues, economic relations, and contemporary global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and migration.
Q: Is it necessary to follow newspapers for International Relations preparation?
Yes, newspapers are crucial for staying updated on current international affairs. Candidates are advised to read reputable newspapers like The Hindu, The Indian Express, or any other reliable source to enhance their awareness of global events.
Q: Which books are recommended for UPSC International Relations preparation?
Standard textbooks like “World Politics” by M. Malik, “International Relations” by Paul R. Viotti and Mark V. Kauppi, and “India’s Foreign Policy” by Muchkund Dubey are commonly recommended. Additionally, candidates should refer to reports by international organizations.
Q: How can I improve my answer writing skills for International Relations in UPSC mains?
Practice answer writing regularly. Focus on structuring your answers, providing a clear introduction and conclusion, and incorporating relevant facts and examples. Analyze previous year’s question papers to understand the pattern and style of questions.
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