UPSC Mains Answer PYQ 2023: PSIR Paper 2 (Section- B) | PSIR Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Section - B

Q5: Answer the following questions in about 150 words each : (10x5=50)
(a) Explain the major features of India’s Foreign Policy in the 21st century.      (10 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
India's foreign policy in the 21st century has been marked by significant changes and strategic priorities.

Multi-Alignment:

• India has pursued a policy of multi-alignment, engaging with both the Western and Eastern powers. It maintains strategic partnerships with countries like the United States, while strengthening its ties with Russia, China, and other Asian nations.

Economic Diplomacy:

• India's foreign policy emphasizes economic diplomacy and trade. It seeks to bolster its economic interests through initiatives like "Make in India" and partnerships with global players.

Neighborhood First:

• India has prioritized its neighbors under the "Neighborhood First" policy. Initiatives such as "Act East" and "SAGAR" aim to enhance regional connectivity and security.

Security Concerns:

• India's foreign policy is influenced by its security concerns, including terrorism and cross-border conflicts. It maintains a strong stance against state-sponsored terrorism.

Soft Power and Global Issues:

• India leverages its soft power through initiatives like international peacekeeping, climate change diplomacy, and promoting Yoga and Ayurveda. It advocates for global issues such as UN Security Council reforms.

Conclusion: 
India's foreign policy in the 21st century reflects a dynamic approach that balances multiple interests, prioritizes economic engagement, and maintains a focus on regional stability and global leadership.

(b) What are the reasons for lack of ‘regionness’ in South Asia ?     (10 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
South Asia, despite its geographical proximity, has struggled to achieve regional integration and 'regionness.' Several factors contribute to this lack of cohesion.

Historical Conflicts:

• Historical animosities and border disputes, such as the India-Pakistan conflict over Kashmir, have hindered regional cooperation.

Diverse Interests:

• South Asian countries have diverse economic, political, and strategic interests. These disparities make it challenging to find common ground.

Security Concerns:

• Security issues, including terrorism and border tensions, often take precedence over economic cooperation.

Leadership and Bilateralism:

• Bilateral relations between dominant powers like India and Pakistan often overshadow regional efforts. Bilateral disputes divert attention from multilateral cooperation.

Lack of Connectivity:

• Limited physical and economic connectivity within the region inhibits trade and people-to-people contact.

Conclusion: 
The lack of 'regionness' in South Asia is a complex issue rooted in historical conflicts, diverse interests, security concerns, leadership dynamics, and inadequate connectivity. Overcoming these challenges is essential for regional cooperation and development.

(c) Why is the compromise reached at WTO regarding the Covid-19 vaccine manufacturing not a Trade Related Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver ?     (10 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The World Trade Organization (WTO) reached a compromise regarding the manufacturing of Covid-19 vaccines during the pandemic, but it was not a Trade-Related Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver.

Voluntary Licensing:

• The agreement involved voluntary licensing of vaccine production, allowing manufacturers to produce vaccines without the need for compulsory licensing or suspending patents.

Scope and Duration:

• The scope of the agreement was limited, applying only to Covid-19 vaccines and treatments. It was also temporary, intended to address the immediate crisis.

Differential Impact:

• A TRIPS waiver would have provided broader access to intellectual property for developing countries. The compromise, while a positive step, still leaves room for disparities in access to vaccines.

Pharmaceutical Industry Influence:

• The compromise reflects the influence of the pharmaceutical industry, which opposed a full TRIPS waiver and lobbied for voluntary measures to protect their intellectual property rights.

Conclusion: 
The WTO compromise on Covid-19 vaccine manufacturing falls short of a comprehensive TRIPS waiver, as it relies on voluntary licensing and has a limited scope. It highlights the complex balance between public health and protecting intellectual property rights.

(d) Why do ethnic conflicts and insurgencies continue to remain major impediments to regional co-operation in South Asia ?     (10 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Ethnic conflicts and insurgencies continue to be major impediments to regional cooperation in South Asia, hindering stability and progress.

Identity Politics:

• Ethnic and religious identities often drive these conflicts, leading to violence, demands for autonomy, and separatist movements.

State Responses:

• Heavy-handed state responses to these conflicts can exacerbate tensions and hinder cooperation as governments prioritize internal security.

Interference by External Powers:

• External powers often exploit ethnic tensions in the region to further their own interests, fueling conflicts and impeding cooperation.

Resource Competition:

• Ethnic conflicts are sometimes driven by competition over resources, such as land or water, further complicating cooperation on shared resources.

Lack of Trust:

• Prolonged conflicts erode trust among South Asian nations, making it difficult to build regional cooperation.

Conclusion: 
Ethnic conflicts and insurgencies in South Asia are deeply rooted in identity politics, resource competition, and historical grievances. Addressing these conflicts is crucial for fostering regional cooperation and stability.

(e) What diplomatic steps has India taken to articulate the interests of the Global South in International Politics ?     (10 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
India has played a prominent role in articulating the interests of the Global South in international politics, leveraging its diplomatic efforts to address key issues.

South-South Cooperation:

• India has actively promoted South-South cooperation through forums like the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and BRICS, advocating for the collective interests of developing nations.

Multilateral Engagement:

• India engages in multilateral organizations like the United Nations, championing issues such as climate change, global trade reforms, and equitable access to vaccines.

Development Assistance:

• India provides development assistance to fellow Global South countries, helping them address challenges related to infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

Global Governance Reform:

• India pushes for reforms in global governance institutions like the UN, aiming for a more inclusive and representative international order.

Promotion of Global Public Goods:

• India's commitment to issues like renewable energy and climate change mitigation contributes to the global public good.

Conclusion: 
India's diplomatic efforts in multilateral forums, support for development, and advocacy for global governance reforms demonstrate its commitment to articulating the interests of the Global South in international politics, contributing to a more equitable world order.

Q6:
(a) Arms trade, economic ties and congruent geo-political interests are no longer the three pillars of India - Russia relationship in the emerging strategic context. Comment.      (20 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The India-Russia relationship has evolved beyond traditional pillars of arms trade, economic ties, and congruent geopolitical interests due to changing strategic dynamics.

Diversification of Partnerships:

• India and Russia have broadened their international engagements. India's deepening ties with the United States and Russia's closer alignment with China have led to a more diversified foreign policy.

Shift in Geopolitical Alliances:

• Russia's alignment with China and India's partnership with the United States, Japan, and Australia within the QUAD framework have altered the traditional geopolitical dynamics in the region.

Evolving Regional and Global Challenges:

• New challenges, such as cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and climate change, have gained prominence in global affairs, making traditional defense and economic cooperation less central.

Conclusion: While arms trade and economic relations remain important facets of the India-Russia relationship, the evolving strategic context has led to a diversification of partnerships, challenging the traditional three pillars of the relationship.

(b) Discuss the importance of India’s role in UN peacekeeping operations as a ground for its claim to a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.      (15 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
India has been actively engaged in UN peacekeeping operations, and this role is often cited as a strong basis for its claim to a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.

Contributions to Peacekeeping:

• India is one of the largest contributors of troops to UN peacekeeping missions, with a long history of deployments in conflict zones, including in Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia.

Demonstrated Capabilities:

• Indian peacekeepers have demonstrated professionalism and effectiveness in maintaining peace and stability. They have often been praised for their work in challenging and volatile environments.

Commitment to Multilateralism:

• India's participation in peacekeeping underscores its commitment to multilateralism, international peace and security, and the principles of the UN Charter.

Global Recognition:

• India's contributions have earned it respect and support from numerous countries, enhancing its credibility and claim to a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.

Conclusion: 
India's significant and consistent role in UN peacekeeping operations not only showcases its commitment to global peace but also strengthens its argument for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council as a responsible and capable actor in international affairs.

(c) Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) performs an important role in India’s strategic balancing act to withstand the dominance of China in Asia. Discuss.      (15 Marks)  
Ans:
Introduction: 
The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) has become an essential part of India's strategic balancing strategy to counter China's dominance in Asia.

Counterbalance to China:

• The QUAD, comprising the United States, Japan, Australia, and India, serves as a collective balancing force in the Indo-Pacific, countering China's growing influence in the region.

Security and Economic Cooperation:

• QUAD members cooperate on various fronts, including security, infrastructure development, and vaccine distribution, strengthening India's economic and security posture.

Preserving Regional Stability:

• QUAD aims to promote a rules-based order, ensure freedom of navigation, and support regional stability, countering any unilateral actions by China that could disrupt the status quo.

Diversification of Alliances:

• India's participation in the QUAD complements its non-alignment policy by diversifying its strategic alliances, mitigating dependence on any single power.

Conclusion: 
The QUAD plays a crucial role in India's strategic balancing act against China, offering security and economic cooperation and enhancing regional stability while avoiding alignment with any single power in a changing geopolitical landscape.

Q7:
(a) “India’s Nuclear policy is deeply influenced by its cultural beliefs and the pragmatic approach of its foreign policy.” Discuss.      (20 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
India's nuclear policy is shaped by a combination of cultural beliefs and pragmatic foreign policy considerations.

Cultural Beliefs:

• No First Use (NFU) Doctrine: India's NFU policy, which commits not to use nuclear weapons first in a conflict, reflects a deep-seated belief in non-violence and the principle of 'ahimsa' from India's cultural and philosophical traditions.
• Reluctance to Proliferate: India's long-standing stance against nuclear proliferation is rooted in its commitment to global disarmament and its historical role in the Non-Aligned Movement, which advocated for nuclear disarmament.

Pragmatic Foreign Policy:

• National Security Concerns: India's nuclear tests in 1998 were driven by pragmatic national security concerns, particularly in response to security threats from its nuclear-armed neighbors, China and Pakistan.
• Realism in Geopolitics: In a complex and often hostile regional environment, India's nuclear deterrence is a pragmatic response to protect its territorial integrity and maintain stability in the region.

Balancing Act:

• India's nuclear policy represents a balancing act between its cultural values of non-violence and its foreign policy's need for security and deterrence.

Conclusion: 
India's nuclear policy reflects the interplay of cultural beliefs, especially 'ahimsa' and pragmatic foreign policy considerations, serving as a means to ensure national security while adhering to its cultural principles.

(b) What steps has India taken to regain its foothold in Afghanistan since the Taliban has taken over the country in August 2021 ?      (15 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
India's regional interests in Afghanistan have prompted it to reevaluate and adapt its approach following the Taliban's takeover in August 2021.

Humanitarian Aid and Diplomacy:

• India has continued providing humanitarian aid, including food and medical supplies, to the Afghan people through various channels, demonstrating its commitment to stability and welfare in the region.
• It has engaged in diplomatic efforts, participating in regional forums like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to address the Afghan crisis and promote peace.

Engagement with the Taliban:

• While not officially recognizing the Taliban government, India has maintained communication channels with them, cautiously exploring potential areas of cooperation, such as ensuring the safety of its nationals and preserving its investments in the country.

Collaboration with International Partners:

• India has worked closely with like-minded countries such as the United States and Russia to coordinate their efforts in Afghanistan and to press for inclusive governance and counterterrorism measures.

Infrastructure Development:

• India continues to focus on development projects in Afghanistan, including the construction of the Salma Dam and the Parliament building, symbolizing its commitment to the country's reconstruction.

Conclusion: 
India's response to the Taliban's takeover in Afghanistan involves a mix of humanitarian assistance, diplomacy, engagement with the Taliban, cooperation with international partners, and ongoing development projects to maintain its foothold in the region and protect its interests.

(c) What are the challenges and limitations in India - Iran relations ?      (15 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
India and Iran share historical and cultural ties, but their relationship faces several challenges and limitations.

Economic Sanctions:

• Iran has faced economic sanctions, affecting India's ability to conduct trade and energy cooperation with the country. Balancing international relations while engaging with Iran is a challenge.

Competing Interests:

• India's relations with Iran are often influenced by its strategic partnership with the United States, which may clash with Iran's interests, creating a delicate balancing act for India.

Chabahar Port and INSTC:

• While India has invested in the development of the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), progress has been slow due to financial constraints and geopolitical complexities.

Security in the Persian Gulf:

• India's energy security relies on the Persian Gulf, and any instability or conflict in the region could affect its interests, including its oil imports from Iran.

Regional Conflicts:

• India's relations with Iran are influenced by regional conflicts, particularly those involving Iran and Saudi Arabia. India's diplomatic stance on these conflicts can impact its relations with both countries.

Conclusion: 
While India and Iran share historical and cultural ties, their relations face challenges stemming from economic sanctions, competing interests, infrastructure projects, security concerns, and regional conflicts. Skillful diplomacy is essential to navigate these complexities and foster a productive partnership.

Q8:
(a) What are the external determinants of the Foreign Policy of a State ?      (20 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
A state's foreign policy is influenced by various external factors that shape its strategic objectives and diplomatic choices. These external determinants are crucial in understanding a state's behavior on the international stage.

1. Geopolitical Environment:

• The global geopolitical landscape, including neighboring countries, power dynamics, and regional security issues, significantly impact a state's foreign policy. For example, India's relations with Pakistan are heavily influenced by its geopolitical proximity and historical conflicts.

2. International Institutions:

• States participate in international organizations like the United Nations, which can affect their foreign policy decisions. These institutions set norms, facilitate diplomacy, and provide platforms for cooperation and conflict resolution.

3. Economic Interests:

• Economic factors, such as trade relations, foreign investments, and access to resources, are critical external determinants. A state's foreign policy often prioritizes economic interests, as seen in China's Belt and Road Initiative for economic expansion.

4. Alliances and Partnerships:

• The formation of alliances and partnerships with other states or regional blocs, like NATO or the European Union, can significantly shape a country's foreign policy choices. The U.S. relationship with NATO is a prime example.

5. Global Challenges:

• Global issues like climate change, pandemics, and cybersecurity have a growing influence on foreign policy. States collaborate to address these transnational challenges, such as the Paris Agreement on climate change.

Conclusion: 
External determinants play a pivotal role in shaping a state's foreign policy, influencing its strategic priorities, alliances, and responses to global issues.

(b) Discuss the significance of “West Asia Quad” in the light of India’s ‘Look West’ policy.      (15 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
India's 'Look West' policy seeks to enhance its engagement with the countries of West Asia, and the concept of a "West Asia Quad" holds significant importance in this context.

Balancing Regional Dynamics:

• The "West Asia Quad" comprising India, Israel, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Saudi Arabia is aimed at balancing regional dynamics and responding to evolving geopolitical challenges. India's engagement with these countries is a strategic move to secure its interests in the region.

Economic Opportunities:

• West Asia is rich in energy resources and offers substantial economic opportunities. Strengthening ties with the UAE and Saudi Arabia, major oil suppliers, can ensure India's energy security and economic growth.

Counterterrorism and Security Cooperation:

• These partnerships contribute to India's counterterrorism efforts, intelligence sharing, and enhanced security cooperation. Israel, in particular, is known for its expertise in security and defense technologies.

Diversification of Partnerships:

• The "West Asia Quad" diversifies India's partnerships, reducing dependence on any single country and increasing its influence in the region.

Conclusion: 
The "West Asia Quad" is significant in India's 'Look West' policy, as it helps India balance regional dynamics, access economic opportunities, enhance security cooperation, and diversify its strategic partnerships in the dynamic West Asia region.

(c)  Discuss the major drivers of India’s interests in Africa.      (15 Marks)  
Ans: 
Introduction: 
India's engagement with Africa has grown significantly over the years, driven by a range of economic, strategic, and geopolitical interests.

Economic Interests:

• Access to African markets and resources, including oil, minerals, and agricultural products, is a major driver of India's engagement with Africa. India's trade with Africa has seen a substantial increase.

Energy Security:

• Africa's role as an energy supplier is vital for India's energy security. India has invested in oil and gas exploration and production in African countries like Sudan, Nigeria, and Mozambique.

Counterterrorism and Maritime Security:

• India has an interest in collaborating with African nations on counterterrorism and maritime security, particularly in the context of the Indian Ocean region. The threat of piracy and the presence of extremist groups have spurred security cooperation.

Geopolitical Considerations:

• Geopolitical interests, such as countering China's growing influence in Africa, contribute to India's engagement on the continent. India has sought to strengthen ties with countries like South Africa, which have regional significance.

Diaspora and Cultural Ties:

• India's historical ties with the African continent, including the presence of a significant Indian diaspora, contribute to its engagement with Africa. The Indian community in countries like Kenya and South Africa plays a role in fostering cultural and economic links.

Conclusion: 
India's interests in Africa are multifaceted, encompassing economic interests, energy security, counterterrorism efforts, geopolitical considerations, and cultural ties, making the continent an important focus of India's foreign policy.