UPSC Mains Previous Year Questions 2023: GS2 International Relations | UPSC Mains: International Relations PDF Download

Q1:  ‘Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO'.
In the light of the above statement, point out the role of India in mitigating the problems. (International Relations)
Ans: 
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has emerged as a significant non-western security alliance, covering a majority of the world's population, with the goal of promoting peace in Eurasia. However, given the diverse nature and interests of its members, internal issues are inevitable.

Conflicts within SCO:

• India and Pakistan: Persistent conflicts between India and its neighboring cousin, Pakistan.
• India and China: China's assertive territorial claims have led to tensions with neighboring nations, including India. Issues like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) further complicate matters.
• Economic Disparities: Members with significant income disparities may lead to internal friction.

How India Can Mitigate Problems:

• Dialogue Promotion: India is known for advocating dialogues and diplomatic solutions.
• Cultural Diplomacy: Leveraging cultural ties with SCO countries can be a valuable aspect of India's soft power.
• Backchannel Diplomacy: Track II diplomacy can help create a conducive environment for conflict management.
• Joint-military Exercises: Participating in joint SCO anti-terror drills can foster familiarity among militaries and promote healthy relations between nations.

India's role in mitigating various conflicts within the SCO can be significant, aligning with its values of 'Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam' and historical policies like Panchsheel and non-alignment.

Q2:  Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and political benefits for India. (International Relations)
Ans: 

India's Diaspora and Its Impact: India holds the distinction of being the highest recipient of remittances, with USD 108 billion in the year 2023. Beyond the financial contributions, the remarkable success of over 18 million people of Indian origin worldwide brings several advantages to their homeland.

Instances of Diaspora's Success:

• Leaders of top companies globally with an 'Indian origin' background, including Sundar Pichai (Google) and Shantanu Narayen (Adobe).
• Presence of individuals of Indian origin in key political positions, such as Rishi Sunak (UK) and Kamala Harris (USA).

Political and Economic Benefits:

• Remittances from the diaspora significantly impact the balance of payments, helping offset trade deficits.
• The diaspora fosters a favorable international perception of India in forums like the United Nations.
• Increased global demand for 'Indian goods' due to exposure to Indian culture, visible in Indian restaurants and yoga studios worldwide.
• Migration of low-skilled workers, particularly to West Asian countries, reduces disguised unemployment in India.

India's extensive diaspora of 32 million worldwide provides a substantial advantage. While concerns about brain drain persist for a developing nation like India, it's essential to recognize the associated social, political, and economic benefits.

Q3:  ‘The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well for India.’ What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer. (International Relations)
Ans: While the world is embracing the idea of a multipolar world, it's evident that NATO and the European Union (EU) remain influential global power centers. India aspires to become a major power in the future, and currently, it stands to gain from a reinforced NATO and a stronger relationship between the United States and Europe.

Why it works for India:

• China Problem: As NATO and the EU are aligned in addressing the issue of Chinese aggression, India benefits from strategic partnerships with them.
• Economic Returns: The substantial share of world GDP held by these countries offers India trade opportunities and economic stability resulting from their partnership.
• Democratic Values: The shared democratic values upheld by these groups align with India's interests, especially in contrast to its two hostile neighbors.
• Defence Capabilities: Increased engagement with western military powers provides India with technological expertise, advanced military training, and strategic collaboration.
• Tackling Terrorism: India, having dealt with a history of terrorist attacks, would appreciate efforts to end or mitigate terrorism, an indirect benefit of the US-Europe strategic partnership.

Challenges:

• India-Russia Relations: Balancing a closer relationship with western countries without jeopardizing India's long-term partnership with Russia poses a diplomatic challenge.
• Increased Competition: A stronger EU and US relationship may bring heightened competition in sectors crucial to India's growth, such as the IT industry and pharmaceuticals.

Overall, India stands to gain significantly from a strengthened NATO and a more robust US-Europe strategic partnership, provided it navigates the challenges associated with such alliances.

Q4: ‘Sea is an important Component of the Cosmos.’ Discuss in the light of the above statement, the role of the IMO (International Maritime Organisation) in protecting environment and enhancing maritime safety and security. (International Relations)
Ans: Seas hold immense importance for the Earth due to their rich biodiversity and for humans as a valuable resource pool and a means of transportation. The International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, is dedicated to enhancing the safety and security of international shipping and preventing pollution from ships.

Environmental Protection:

• Ballast Water Management Convention: IMO established guidelines for managing, treating, and discharging ballast water held in ships' tanks to stabilize them.
• MARPOL Convention: An international convention preventing pollution caused by ships, addressing issues like oil spillage and chemical pollution.
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions: IMO set stringent emission limits for sulphur and nitrogen oxide, contributing to pollution reduction, particularly in coastal areas.
• EEXI and CII: IMO adopted the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) to decrease the environmental impact of the shipping industry.

Maritime Safety and Security:

• ISPS Code: The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code outlines measures to enhance the security of ships and port facilities.
• SOLAS Convention: The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) ensures that ship construction, equipment, and operation align with safety guidelines.
• STCW Convention: The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) ensures standardized training and certification for seafarers to achieve a basic level of competency.
• Search and Rescue (SAR): IMO's SAR Plan ensures global availability of search and rescue services, saving lives and enhancing overall maritime navigation safety.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) plays a crucial role in environmental protection and the improvement of maritime safety and security. It operates within the framework of various conventions and enforces various codes.