Discover an extensive compilation of UPSC Mains topic-wise questions centered on International Relations, with a specific focus on Israel. Dive into a diverse array of inquiries covering Israel’s foreign policies, geopolitical significance, and diplomatic relations with other nations. These meticulously crafted questions provide valuable insights into the complexities of Israel’s role in the global landscape, enabling UPSC aspirants to enhance their understanding of contemporary international affairs. Prepare effectively for the UPSC Mains examination by engaging with thought-provoking queries designed to sharpen analytical skills and deepen comprehension of Israel’s multifaceted interactions on the world stage.
Q1. Write about the India-Israel cooperation (2004, 2 marks)
Answer: Since 2004, India and Israel have cooperated in agriculture, defense, and counter-terrorism. This strategic partnership has been mutually beneficial, with Israel providing India with cutting-edge technologies in agriculture and defense, and India providing Israel with a large market for its products and services.
Q2. Write about India-Israel cooperation in the field of agriculture. (2006, 2 Marks)
Answer: India and Israel have a strong collaboration in agriculture, focusing on leveraging Israel’s expertise in drip irrigation and dryland farming to address India’s water scarcity challenges. This collaboration has been beneficial for both countries, as India has gained valuable knowledge and technologies to improve its agricultural productivity, and Israel has found a lucrative market for its agricultural technologies.
Q3. Do you agree with the view that Israel is a ‘natural ally’ of India? (2010, 12 Marks)
Answer: India and Israel share a strategic partnership built on convergence of interests in the areas of security, counter-terrorism, and technology. Whether this translates into a ‘natural alliance’ merits examination.
Areas of Convergence
- Security: Both nations face threats from radical Islamic terrorism. Israel’s expertise in counter-terrorism and border security is valuable to India.
- Defense Cooperation: Israel is a leading supplier of defense equipment to India, fulfilling critical needs and fostering technology transfer.
- Economic Cooperation: Collaboration in agriculture, water management, and IT contributes to mutual economic growth.
Arguments Against a ‘Natural Alliance’
- Geopolitical Disparity: India’s balancing act with West Asia, maintaining relations with Iran and the Arab world, restricts full alignment with Israel.
- Divergent Voting Patterns: India’s historical position of neutrality on the Israel-Palestine conflict often clashes with Israel’s stance at international forums.
- Domestic Pressures: Public opinion in India can be sensitive to Palestinian issues, limiting overt support for Israel.
Conclusion
India and Israel share a significant strategic partnership. However, the complexities of West Asian geopolitics and domestic compulsions make it difficult to categorize it as a ‘natural alliance’ in the traditional sense. The relationship is likely to endure based on mutual benefit, but with limitations.
Q4. “India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back”. Discuss. (2018, 10 Marks)
Answer: The statement holds significant truth, reflecting the deepening strategic convergence between India and Israel.
- Depth:
- Increased cooperation in defence, counter-terrorism, agriculture, and water management signifies a robust partnership.
- Regular high-level visits and knowledge sharing solidify this depth.
- Diversity:
- Collaboration extends beyond security to encompass economic ties, science & technology and cultural exchanges.
- This multi-faceted approach fosters long-term engagement.
Challenges persist:
- India’s historical ties with the Arab world and the unresolved Israeli-Palestinian conflict necessitate a calibrated approach.
However, the benefits of this deepening partnership are substantial, making a complete rollback unlikely.
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