India-China relations have witnessed significant transformation over the past few decades. The two countries, once adversaries, have evolved into complex partners, both in economic and geopolitical dimensions, albeit with continuing challenges. Conclusion: Emerging trends in India-China relations reflect a balance of competition and cooperation. Economic interdependence continues to grow, yet geopolitical and strategic differences, especially…
Explain the changing dimension of US and European Union relations in the post-Cold War era.
The post-Cold War era, which began in the early 1990s with the dissolution of the Soviet Union, has significantly altered the dynamics of international relations. This transformation is particularly visible in the relationship between the United States and the European Union (EU). While the Cold War period defined much of their interaction—focused primarily on mutual…
Discuss the role of political parties in the making of foreign policy.
In a democratic setup like India, foreign policy is not the exclusive domain of the ruling party or the executive; it involves multiple stakeholders, including political parties. The role of political parties in shaping and influencing India’s foreign policy has evolved, especially in the context of the country’s democratic framework, where electoral processes and political…
Briefly explain the growing influence of the PMO in foreign policy-making.
The role of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) in India has evolved significantly over the years, especially in the domain of foreign policy-making. Traditionally, foreign policy in India was managed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), but over time, the PMO has gained substantial influence in shaping the country’s international relations. This shift has…
Pokhran-II
Pokhran-II refers to a series of nuclear tests conducted by India in May 1998 at the Pokhran Test Range in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan. These tests were a follow-up to India’s first nuclear test, Smiling Buddha, which was carried out in 1974. Pokhran-II was a significant milestone in India’s nuclear capabilities, as it demonstrated…
International terrorism
International terrorism refers to terrorist activities that transcend national borders and involve non-state actors or groups engaging in acts of violence with global implications. These acts are typically aimed at achieving political, ideological, or religious goals and can target civilian populations, infrastructure, or governments. International terrorism is distinct in that it involves cross-border coordination, global…
Comment on India’s role in the United Nations.
India’s role in the United Nations (UN) has been a cornerstone of its foreign policy, reflecting its commitment to multilateralism, international peace, and the promotion of social justice. India, a founding member of the UN, has always supported the principles of the UN Charter and emphasized its role in fostering a rules-based international order. Over…
Comment on India’s response to the Iraq crisis.
India’s response to the Iraq crisis—particularly the 2003 invasion of Iraq led by the United States—was shaped by a combination of its longstanding foreign policy principles, regional security interests, and international relationships. This response underscores India’s evolving position in global geopolitics, its commitment to multilateralism, and its strategic considerations in the Middle East and broader…
What is ‘Look East Policy’ and what is its impact on India-East Asia relations?
India’s Look East Policy (LEP) was a significant shift in India’s foreign policy approach, aimed at fostering stronger economic, political, and security ties with the countries of East and Southeast Asia. This policy was formally initiated in the early 1990s, primarily under the leadership of Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, and became more prominent during…
Explain Rajiv Gandhi’s Contribution to India’s Foreign Policy
Rajiv Gandhi, the sixth Prime Minister of India, held office from 1984 to 1989. His tenure was marked by significant shifts in India’s foreign policy, which reflected his vision of modernizing India’s diplomatic and strategic approach. Gandhi’s contributions to India’s foreign policy were shaped by his youthful enthusiasm, technological outlook, and belief in global cooperation….
Discuss the India-China Border Dispute
The India-China border dispute is one of the most significant and longstanding territorial conflicts in the world. It has its roots in the complex historical, cultural, and geopolitical factors that have shaped the relationship between the two Asian giants. The issue primarily involves the delineation of boundaries in the Aksai Chin region in the west,…
Explain the Complex Interdependence Perspectives of India’s Foreign Policy
The concept of “complex interdependence” was introduced by international relations scholars Robert Keohane and Joseph Nye as an alternative to the realist framework, which emphasizes military power and state-centric approaches in international politics. In contrast, complex interdependence stresses the importance of multiple, overlapping channels of interaction between states and non-state actors in the global system,…