UPSC International Relations Syllabus for UPSC 2023 (Pre & Mains)
Introduction:
International Relations is an important subject in the UPSC examination as it covers various aspects of global politics, diplomacy, and interactions between nations. This subject holds great significance in understanding the dynamics of the international system and its impact on India's foreign policy. In this article, we will provide a detailed syllabus for UPSC International Relations for the 2023 examination.
1. Preliminary Examination:
1.1. Basic Concepts:
- Meaning, nature, and scope of international relations
- Theories of international relations (Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism, etc.)
- Key actors in international relations (nation-states, non-state actors, international organizations, etc.)
- Balance of power, security dilemma, and collective security
1.2. International Organizations:
- United Nations and its specialized agencies
- Regional organizations (ASEAN, EU, AU, etc.)
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and their role in international relations
- International financial institutions (IMF, World Bank, etc.)
1.3. Global Issues:
- Globalization and its impact on international relations
- Climate change and environmental issues
- Terrorism and its implications
- Nuclear proliferation and disarmament
- Human rights and humanitarian intervention
1.4. India and the World:
- India's foreign policy objectives and challenges
- India's relations with major powers (USA, Russia, China, etc.)
- India's neighborhood policy (SAARC, BIMSTEC, etc.)
- India's role in regional and international organizations
2. Main Examination:
2.1. Paper I:
2.1.1. Theories of International Relations:
- Realism, Liberalism, Marxism, and other theoretical perspectives
- Critiques of these theories and their relevance in contemporary international relations
2.1.2. State System and International Order:
- Evolution of the state system and its impact on international relations
- Power politics and balance of power
- International law and its significance
2.1.3. Foreign Policy:
- Foreign policy analysis and decision-making process
- Role of domestic factors in shaping foreign policy
- India's foreign policy challenges and objectives
2.1.4. International Organizations and Institutions:
- United Nations and its reform
- Regional organizations and their role in global governance
- Non-state actors and their impact on international relations
2.2. Paper II:
2.2.1. India's Foreign Policy:
- Evolution of India's foreign policy from independence to the present
- India's relations with major powers and neighboring countries
- India's role in regional and international organizations
2.2.2. India's Strategic Interests:
- India's strategic culture and national security challenges
- Maritime security and India's naval strategy
- India's energy security and resource diplomacy
2.2.3. India's Engagement with the World:
- India's economic diplomacy and international trade
- India's diaspora and cultural diplomacy
- India's soft power and public diplomacy
2.2.4. Contemporary Issues in International Relations:
- Emerging powers and multipolarity
- Global governance and reforms
- Cybersecurity and information warfare
- South-South cooperation and India's role in it
Conclusion:
The UPSC International Relations syllabus for the 2023 examination covers a wide range of topics related to global politics, diplomacy, and India's foreign policy. It is essential for aspirants to have a comprehensive understanding of international relations to excel in this subject. By following this detailed syllabus, candidates can effectively prepare for the UPSC examination and enhance their chances of success.
This course is helpful for the following exams: UPSC