Assignment Code: BPSE-142/ASST/TMA/2023-24

Course Code: BPSE-142

Assignment Name: India’s Foreign Policy in a Globalising World

Year: 2023-2024

Verification Status: Verified by Professor

Assignment - I

Answer the following in about 500 words each.

Q1) Compare India’s foreign policy under UPA and NDA –II regimes.

Ans) Comparison of India's Foreign Policy Under the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) and NDA-II (National Democratic Alliance - II) Regimes:

Q2) Critically examine the nature of India –US relations in the post –Cold War era.

Ans) The relationship between India and the United States has undergone significant transformations in the post-Cold War era, evolving from periods of estrangement to a growing strategic partnership. This critical examination highlights the complexities and key developments in their relationship:

a)    Early Post-Cold War Period (1990s - Early 2000s):

1)      Estrangement and Nuclear Sanctions: Following India's nuclear tests in 1998, the US imposed sanctions, leading to a period of strained relations. The US perceived India's nuclear ambitions as a threat to regional stability.

2)     Limited Engagement: Despite shared democratic values, trade remained modest, and diplomatic ties were cautious. Differences persisted on issues like Kashmir and nuclear proliferation.

b)   Shift towards Strategic Partnership (Mid-2000s - Early 2010s):

1)      Rapprochement and Civil Nuclear Deal: A significant turning point was the US-India Civil Nuclear Deal in 2005, symbolizing a thaw in relations. The agreement allowed India access to nuclear technology and fuel despite not being a signatory to the NPT.

2)     Enhanced Strategic Cooperation: The two nations began exploring shared strategic interests in areas like defense, counter-terrorism, and maritime security. The 2008 US-India Defense Framework Agreement signalled a deepening defense partnership.

c)    Consolidation of Strategic Ties (Mid-2010s - Present):

1)      Growing Strategic Alignment: Closer cooperation emerged in various domains, aligning on regional security issues like countering terrorism, stability in the Indo-Pacific, and ensuring a rules-based order. Both nations emphasized freedom of navigation and security in the South China Sea.

2)     Economic and Trade Relations: While trade relations expanded, contentious issues such as market access, trade imbalances, and intellectual property rights remained unresolved. Bilateral trade, while growing, faced challenges.

3)     Defining Partnerships: The Quad, comprising the US, India, Japan, and Australia, gained prominence as a forum focusing on maritime security, connectivity, and ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.

d)   Critical Evaluation:

1)      Divergent Interests: Despite converging strategic interests, India and the US diverge on various issues, including India's relations with Russia, Iran, and the importance of multilateral institutions. Differences over trade, visa policies, and climate change persist.

2)     Balancing Act: India pursues strategic autonomy, balancing relationships with various global powers, which occasionally causes friction with US expectations of closer alignment. India's historical non-alignment approach occasionally conflicts with US interests.

3)     Geopolitical Shifts: Geopolitical shifts, including US-China tensions, have influenced the depth of US-India relations. While shared concerns about China's assertiveness drive cooperation, India seeks to maintain a balance in its relationships.

4)     Economic Disconnect: Economic ties have not matched the potential due to divergent economic policies, trade issues, and market access barriers. This has hindered the full realization of the strategic partnership's economic dimensions.

5)     Future Trajectory: The trajectory of US-India relations will be influenced by evolving global dynamics, regional security concerns, and geopolitical shifts. How both nations navigate their differences while building on shared strategic objectives will shape the future of their relationship.

In conclusion, the nature of India-US relations post-Cold War has evolved from estrangement to strategic partnership, marked by significant advancements in defense cooperation and convergence on strategic interests. However, divergent economic policies, geopolitical complexities, and differing global priorities continue to challenge the depth and scope of this partnership. The evolving global landscape will play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of this critical relationship.

Assignment - II

Answer the following questions in about 250 words each.

Q1) Discuss strategic significance of Russia in India’s foreign policy.

Ans) Russia holds immense strategic significance in India's foreign policy, based on historical ties, defense cooperation, and geopolitical dynamics:

a)    Historical Relations: India and Russia share a historically robust relationship dating back to the Cold War era. The Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation in 1971 was a cornerstone, reflecting mutual trust and support during critical times for India.

b)   Defense Cooperation: Defense collaboration between India and Russia is pivotal. Russia has been India's primary defense supplier, providing advanced military equipment and technology, including fighter jets, submarines, and missile systems. Long-standing defense ties include joint military exercises and technological cooperation.

c)    Strategic Partnership: The India-Russia strategic partnership extends beyond defense to encompass diverse sectors such as energy, space exploration, and nuclear energy. Both nations cooperate in multilateral forums like BRICS and SCO, advocating for a multipolar world order.

d)   Geopolitical Balance: India values Russia as a strategic partner to balance regional geopolitics. Amid China's rise and evolving US-China dynamics, India relies on Russia as a counterbalance in the Eurasian region, fostering stability and security in the neighbourhood.

e)    Energy Cooperation: Russia's significant energy reserves and India's energy needs foster collaboration. Projects like the International North-South Transport Corridor and joint energy ventures aim to strengthen economic ties and connectivity.

f)     Alignment on Global Issues: India and Russia align on various global issues, advocating for a multipolar world order, a reform of global governance structures, and countering terrorism. Both nations prioritize sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs.

g)   Challenges and Adaptations: While the relationship remains robust, India has diversified its defense procurement and strategic partnerships, seeking technological advancements and diversifying suppliers, which has led to a decrease in Russia's dominance in India's defense acquisitions.

In summary, Russia's strategic significance to India is deeply rooted in historical ties, defense collaboration, and shared geopolitical interests. Despite India's efforts to diversify partnerships, Russia continues to hold a crucial place in India's foreign policy calculus, serving as a key strategic ally in regional stability, defense cooperation, and fostering a multipolar world order.

Q2) Examine the Tibet factor in India –China relations.

Ans) The Tibet factor has been a significant and complex element in shaping India-China relations, impacting geopolitical dynamics and bilateral ties between the two nations:

a)    Historical Context: Tibet historically maintained cultural and religious ties with India, and Tibet's geopolitical status was a source of contention between India and China even before the formal establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949.

b)   Tibetan Exile and Dalai Lama's Residence: India's hosting of the Dalai Lama and Tibetan refugees since 1959, after the Tibetan uprising, has been a constant thorn in Sino-Indian relations. China views this as India interfering in its internal affairs, impacting mutual trust, and leading to periodic tensions.

c)    Border Dispute and Strategic Implications: The border dispute between India and China, especially in regions like Arunachal Pradesh, has a direct link to the Tibet issue. China's control of Tibet influences its territorial claims and strategic positioning along the border with India.

d)   Security Concerns and Influence in Tibet: India is concerned about China's military presence and infrastructure development in Tibet, which has security implications for India's northern borders. India's interest in the stability and autonomy of Tibet persists due to strategic and security concerns.

e)    Bilateral Relations and Diplomatic Impacts: The Tibet factor has often led to strained relations between India and China. It acts as a constant undercurrent affecting bilateral dialogues, trade, and cooperation in various international forums.

f)     Global Dynamics and Geopolitical Influence: The issue of Tibet has implications beyond bilateral relations. It influences India's strategic calculations in the context of China's growing influence in the region, particularly in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative and China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

g)   Tibetan Diaspora and Cultural Relations: India's hosting of the Tibetan government-in-exile and preserving Tibetan culture contributes to cultural ties and moral support for the Tibetan cause but often strains diplomatic relations with China.

In essence, the Tibet factor remains a complex and sensitive issue in India-China relations. It impacts strategic, security, and diplomatic dimensions, posing challenges and occasional hurdles to fostering stable and cooperative relations between the two nations. The resolution of the Tibet issue could significantly influence the dynamics and future trajectory of India-China relations.

Q3) Critically examine India’s neighbourhood policy.

Ans) India's neighbourhood policy, often termed as the 'Neighbourhood First' policy, is a critical aspect of its foreign relations, focusing on fostering stronger ties, economic cooperation, and regional stability. However, its effectiveness and challenges warrant critical examination:

Positive Aspects

a)     Strategic Emphasis: India acknowledges the strategic significance of its immediate neighbors in shaping its security and stability. The policy aims to create a peaceful and cooperative neighbourhood for mutual benefit.

b)     Economic Cooperation: India seeks to enhance economic engagement through initiatives like connectivity projects, trade agreements, and developmental assistance, fostering economic growth and connectivity within the region.

c)     Cultural and People-to-People Ties: The policy promotes cultural exchanges, educational programs, and people-to-people ties, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared cultural heritage among neighbouring nations.

Challenges and Criticism

a)     Persistent Challenges: Historical disputes, unresolved border issues, and historical mistrust hinder the effective implementation of the policy. Relations with nations like Pakistan, China, and occasionally Nepal have been marred by historical animosity and strategic rivalries.

b)     China's Influence: China's growing presence and influence in South Asia, through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), pose challenges to India's neighbourhood policy, impacting regional dynamics.

c)     Security Concerns: Security challenges, including cross-border terrorism and insurgencies, often strain relations with neighbours like Pakistan and impact the overall stability of the region.

d)     Infrastructure and Connectivity: While initiatives like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal) aim for regional connectivity, progress has been hindered due to infrastructural gaps and political disagreements.

e)     Balancing Act: India's pursuit of strategic autonomy and diverse international engagements occasionally leads to perceptions of neglect or interference among its neighbours.

In conclusion, while India's neighbourhood policy reflects its intent for regional cooperation, economic integration, and cultural ties, it faces multifaceted challenges. Historical disputes, security concerns, China's influence, and infrastructural limitations impede its effectiveness. Addressing these challenges demands nuanced diplomacy, active engagement, and sustained efforts to foster trust, resolve disputes, and build collaborative partnerships to realize a peaceful and prosperous neighbourhood.

Assignment - III

Answer the following questions in about 100 words each.

Q1) India’s views on the Belt and Road initiative.

Ans) India has expressed reservations and concerns about China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). India's primary objection lies in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a key component of BRI, which passes through Pakistan-administered Kashmir, a region claimed by India. India sees this as a violation of its territorial integrity and sovereignty. Additionally, India is cautious about the debt-trap diplomacy associated with BRI projects and the lack of transparency in the initiative. While acknowledging the potential for connectivity and economic benefits, India advocates for projects that respect sovereignty and adhere to international norms. The BRI has thus become a contentious issue impacting India-China relations.

Q2) Why India did not sign the Nuclear Non –Proliferation Treaty (NPT)? Explain.

Ans) India refrained from signing the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) due to several reasons:

a)     Discriminatory Nature: India perceives the NPT as discriminatory, favoring nuclear-armed states that signed before 1967, while newer nuclear states are excluded from possessing nuclear weapons. This inequity in the treaty structure led India to view the NPT as biased.

b)     National Security Concerns: India cited its national security concerns as a reason for not signing the NPT. India faced regional security threats, particularly from nuclear-armed neighbors, which it deemed necessary to address through its nuclear program.

c)     Nuclear Apartheid: India opposed the categorization of states as nuclear weapons states and non-nuclear weapons states, viewing it as perpetuating a divide between nations based on their nuclear status.

d)     Need for Comprehensive Disarmament: India advocated for global nuclear disarmament rather than non-proliferation alone. It emphasized the need for a comprehensive and non-discriminatory disarmament process that included all nuclear-armed states.

e)     National Sovereignty: India prioritized its national sovereignty and strategic autonomy, choosing not to be bound by a treaty that it perceived as constraining its security interests and strategic choices.

Q3) India and G-20.

Ans) India's participation in the G-20, a premier forum for international economic cooperation, is pivotal due to several reasons:

a)     Economic Relevance: India's growing economy and its status as one of the world's largest economies make its inclusion in the G-20 crucial. India's presence reflects its emerging role in the global economic landscape.

b)     Voice for Developing Nations: India represents the interests of developing countries within the G-20, advocating for their concerns, including issues related to development, poverty eradication, and inclusive growth.

c)     Policy Formulation: India contributes to policy discussions on critical global economic issues, including financial stability, trade, investment, and sustainable development, offering perspectives from a diverse and growing economy.

d)     Strategic Partnerships: G-20 summits provide platforms for India to engage in bilateral and multilateral dialogues with other member nations, fostering strategic partnerships and collaborations in various domains.

e)     Enhanced Global Outreach: India's participation in the G-20 enhances its global outreach and diplomatic engagements, allowing it to contribute to shaping international economic agendas and frameworks.

Q4) India’s Act East policy.

Ans) India's Act East Policy, an extension of the Look East Policy, signifies a proactive and dynamic approach towards engaging with East and Southeast Asia:

a)     Regional Integration: The policy aims to enhance economic, cultural, and strategic ties with East Asian countries, focusing on connectivity, trade, and investments to foster regional integration.

b)     Strategic Shift: Act East emphasizes strategic cooperation, military ties, and maritime security engagements, aligning India's interests with the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Indo-Pacific region.

c)     Connectivity and Engagement: It emphasizes infrastructure development, connectivity projects like the Trilateral Highway, and stronger people-to-people linkages to enhance regional connectivity and cultural exchanges.

d)     Diplomatic Outreach: The policy aims to bolster India's diplomatic presence in the region, promoting stronger relations with ASEAN nations and beyond, enhancing India's influence and presence in the Asia-Pacific.

Q5) Changing objectives of India’s foreign policy

Ans) India's foreign policy objectives have evolved in response to shifting global dynamics:

a)     Economic Focus: Initially focused on non-alignment during the Cold War, India now prioritizes economic diplomacy, aiming to attract investments, enhance trade, and foster technology transfers through strategic partnerships and global engagements.

b)     Strategic Shift: There's a renewed emphasis on strategic alliances and security cooperation, reflecting a pivot towards strategic autonomy while maintaining diverse partnerships to safeguard national interests.

c)     Regional Influence: India seeks to expand its regional influence, particularly in South Asia, the Indian Ocean region, and the Indo-Pacific, aiming to enhance connectivity, foster stability, and counterbalance other regional powers' influence.