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Subject: International Relations

  • [pib] Italy-India Joint Strategic Action Plan (2025-2029)

    Why in the News?

    India and Italy signed an ambitious 5-year ‘joint strategic action plan 2025-2029’ that would include cooperation in space sector, critical technology, research, co-production of military equipment and widening the ambit of economic cooperation.

    Key Focus Areas of the Joint Strategic Action Plan:

    Details
    Political Dialogue • Regular high-level meetings and reciprocal visits.
    • Annual bilateral consultations between foreign ministries to discuss mutual interests.
    Economic Cooperation • Boosting trade, market access, and investments in sectors like transportation, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and green technologies.
    • Promoting industrial partnerships and mutual investments.
    Connectivity • Collaborating on sustainable transport initiatives.
    • Enhancing maritime and land infrastructure, participating in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
    Science, Technology, IT, Innovation • Cooperation in emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), telecommunications, and digital services.
    • Innovation, research collaborations, and exchange programs for scientific growth.
    Space Sector • Collaboration between the Italian Space Agency (ASI) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Earth observation and lunar science.
    • Facilitating mutual commercial space collaborations.
    Energy Transition • Technology summits in renewable energy.
    • Cooperation in green hydrogen, biofuels, and energy efficiency.
    • Collaboration in global energy alliances like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Global Biofuels Alliance.
    Defence Cooperation • Joint defence consultations and staff talks.
    • Co-development of defence platforms and equipment.
    • Negotiating a Defence Industrial Roadmap.
    Security Cooperation • Capacity-building in cybersecurity and counter-terrorism.
    • Regular exchanges and sector-specific talks in multilateral forums.

    Significance of the Plan:

    • Time-Bound Initiatives: It outlines specific, time-bound initiatives to ensure measurable progress and accountability.
    • Mutual Growth: By focusing on co-development and co-production, the plan aims to leverage the strengths of both nations for mutual economic and technological advancement.
    • Strategic Alignment: The collaboration in areas like defence, energy transition, and space signifies a strategic alignment of interests, enhancing regional and global stability.
    • Cultural and People-to-People Ties: Emphasizing cultural exchanges and academic collaborations strengthens the social fabric and mutual understanding between the two countries.

    PYQ:

    [2016] With reference to the ‘Trans-Pacific Partnership’, consider the following statements:

    1. It is an agreement among all the Pacific Rim countries except China and Russia.

    2. It is a strategic alliance for the purpose of maritime security only.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Will Riyadh summit have an impact on Gaza war?

    Why in the News?

    Saudi Arabia recently hosted a summit of Arab and Islamic leaders, urging an immediate halt to Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon while addressing the broader Palestine issue.

    What were the key outcomes of the Riyadh summit on the Gaza conflict?

    • Condemnation of Israeli Actions: The leaders from Arab and Islamic countries condemned the Israeli military’s actions in Gaza, describing them as “shocking and horrific crimes,” including accusations of genocide and ethnic cleansing.
    • Call for Investigation: They demanded the establishment of an “independent, credible” international committee to investigate these alleged crimes committed by Israel.
    • Support for Palestinian Statehood: The summit urged for measures to end the Israeli occupation and called for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the borders prior to June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem (Al-Quds) as its capital, aligning with the two-state solution and the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002.

    How does the summit reflect changing dynamics in regional politics?

    • Shift from Normalization: The summit reflects a significant shift in regional politics where Arab nations, which had previously moved towards normalising relations with Israel (as seen in the Abraham Accords), are now re-emphasizing the importance of addressing the Palestinian issue as a prerequisite for peace.
    • Collective Arab Stance: The gathering showcased a united front among Arab leaders in response to Israel’s actions, indicating a collective anger and a strategic pivot back towards supporting Palestinian rights rather than sidelining them for diplomatic ties with Israel.
    • Impact on Saudi-Israel Relations: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s strong condemnation of Israel’s actions signals a deterioration in potential normalization talks with Israel, as any future agreements are now explicitly linked to resolving the Palestinian question.

    What is the possibility of the Arab World Joining the war?

    • Unlikelihood of Military Action: Despite heightened tensions and strong rhetoric, it is highly unlikely that any Arab nation will engage militarily against Israel. Historical precedents show that while Arab states have condemned Israeli actions, they have refrained from direct military confrontation since 1973.
    • Focus on Diplomatic Solutions: The current sentiment among Arab nations leans towards seeking diplomatic resolutions rather than military involvement, especially given their previous moves towards normalizing relations with Israel.
    • Strategic Realignment: The recent developments suggest a subtle realignment in West Asia’s strategic landscape, where Arab states may prioritize internal stability and regional cooperation over direct military engagement, even as they express solidarity with Palestine.

    What can India do to resolve the Gaza conflict?

    • Mediation and Dialogue Facilitation: India can leverage its strong relationships with both Arab countries and Israel to act as a neutral mediator, facilitating dialogue and promoting peaceful negotiations between the conflicting parties.
    • Support for International Initiatives: India can advocate for a renewed focus on the two-state solution within international forums like the UN, aligning with global efforts to establish a sustainable, independent Palestinian state alongside Israel.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Diplomatic Efforts: Arab nations should focus on reinforcing diplomatic pressure on Israel and the international community to address the Palestinian issue, promoting dialogue and supporting peaceful resolutions.
    • Support Palestinian Unity: Arab countries should work towards fostering unity within Palestinian leadership to present a coherent political front and advance their cause for statehood in international forums.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How will the I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • [15th November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: A 2024 election result that leaves many astounded

    PYQ Relevance:
    Q) Indian and USA are two large democracies. Examine the basic tenets on which the two political systems are based. (UPSC CSE 2018)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC has always focused on major countries like the USA (2018), Russia, and China (2024) as well as minor regions like ‘the Malay Peninsula’ (2017) whenever there are major political or economical shifts at the regional/global level.

    India ranks 108th on the Electoral Democracy Index 2023, a decline from its previous position of 100th in 2022. Similarly, the USA ranks 36th and is also facing significant challenges concerning Democratic integrity.

    What is the cause of declining Democracy? And how does it affect Worldwide?

    Today’s editorial focuses on observations from the 2024 elections that reflect broader trends in global politics — both in the West and the East. This editorial can be used as an example whenever we need to give our analysis on ‘Democratic institutions/strategies and their global impacts’.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    The 2024 election results, particularly in the United States and India, signify a shift in political dynamics that have left political analysts and voters worldwide alike in a state of astonishment.

    How does Donald Trump’s rise to prominence highlight a ‘Democratic Flaw’?

    • Erosion of Democratic Norms: There is some evidence of systematically undermining trust in electoral processes, and promoting conspiracy theories about voter fraud.
      • His potential return to power raises concerns about authoritarianism and the erosion of checks and balances, threatening democratic governance.
    • Populism and Nationalism: Trump’s appeal to populism capitalizes on economic discontent and cultural anxieties, often at the expense of inclusivity.
      • His messaging resonates with voters feeling marginalized by globalization, reinforcing societal divisions.
    • Demographic Shifts: For the first time in decades, the proportion of white voters increased significantly, favoring Trump. His campaign resonated particularly well with white voters without a college degree, who overwhelmingly identified with the Republican Party.
    • Voter Turnout: Trump’s support surged among male voters, while Kamala Harris struggled to replicate Joe Biden’s previous performance among women voters, particularly non-college-educated white women.

    What are the challenges faced by the world democracies due to the Authoritarian rise?

    • Erosion of Democratic Norms: Democratic institutions are increasingly being undermined by leaders who exploit their power to consolidate control.
      • For example, Hungary has transformed from a democratic success story into a state with diminishing civil liberties and media freedoms, becoming a model for authoritarian governance within the EU.
    • Political Polarization: The political landscape in countries like the United States has become highly polarized, with populist leaders like Donald Trump questioning the legitimacy of elections and undermining trust in democratic processes.
      • This polarization makes it easier for authoritarian figures to gain support by appealing to nationalist sentiments.
    • Disillusionment with Political Institutions: Many citizens are losing faith in traditional political parties and institutions, leading to increased support for authoritarian leaders who promise quick solutions.
      • For example, this trend is evident in India too, where Political Parties have faced accusations of using anti-terrorism laws to suppress dissent and silence opposition.
    • Manipulation of Electoral Processes: Authoritarian regimes often manipulate electoral systems to maintain power. In the U.S., numerous bills aimed at voter suppression have emerged since the 2020 election, reflecting a broader trend of undermining electoral integrity.
    • External Influences: Countries like China and Russia actively promote authoritarian values globally, influencing political dynamics like cyber attacks and disinformation campaigns aimed at destabilizing democratic institutions in other nations.

    How to address these challenges?

    • Strengthening Democratic Institutions: Ensure Free and Fair elections by reinforcing electoral commissions and implementing transparent voting processes. Organizations like the UNDP can help enhance electoral systems and promote inclusive participation
      • Invest in the development of Parliaments to ensure they represent diverse interests and maintain checks and balances on executive power.
    • Strengthening Media Literacy: Implement comprehensive media literacy programs in schools and communities to equip citizens with critical thinking skills. This empowers individuals to identify and resist disinformation.
    • Supporting Independent Journalism: Governments can provide financial support or incentives for independent media outlets to ensure diverse and reliable information.
    • Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: Regulate Social Media Platforms: Governments should establish clear platforms to disclose their policies on disinformation and hold them accountable for their role in spreading false information. Self-regulation alone has proven insufficient.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/a-2024-election-result-that-leaves-many-astounded/article68869227.ece

  • Leverage similarity, complementarity in Nigeria

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa and its second-largest economy.

    Historical Background of Bilateral Relations between India and Nigeria

    • Long-standing Ties: India and Nigeria have maintained a bilateral relationship for over six decades, marked by shared values of democracy, pluralism, and economic cooperation. This partnership has evolved significantly since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1960.
    • First Direct Contact: Historical ties trace back to around 1500 AD with the arrival of Baba Ghor, a gem merchant from Kano, who settled in Gujarat, symbolizing early trade connections between the two regions.
    • Strategic Partnership: The formalization of their strategic partnership began in 2007, focusing on economic, energy, and defense collaboration. Since then, both countries have engaged in multiple dialogues to strengthen their ties.
    • Cultural Exchange: Indian influence in Nigeria is notable through education and healthcare, with many Nigerians studying in India and receiving medical treatment there. Indian cultural products like Bollywood films are also popular among Nigerians

    The Role of Soft Power in India-Nigeria Relations

    • Cultural Diplomacy: India’s soft power is evident through cultural exchanges, educational scholarships, and training programs that foster goodwill and strengthen people-to-people connections.
    • Healthcare Collaboration: India’s reputation as a destination for medical treatment enhances its soft power, with many Nigerians seeking healthcare services in Indian hospitals.
    • Capacity Building: Initiatives like the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program provide training to Nigerian professionals, contributing to human capital development and fostering long-term relationships.
    • Shared Values: Both countries share common challenges such as governance issues and socio-economic development needs, which can be addressed collaboratively through dialogue and mutual support.

    Importance of Nigeria for India: 

    • Major Trading Partner: Nigeria is India’s second-largest trading partner in Africa, with bilateral trade valued at approximately $7.89 billion in 2023-24. This trade encompasses vital sectors such as crude oil, natural gas, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.
    • Investment Opportunities: Over 200 Indian companies have invested around $27 billion in Nigeria across various sectors, including infrastructure, manufacturing, and consumer goods.
    • People-to-People Ties: There is a significant Indian diaspora in Nigeria, comprising around 50,000 individuals who contribute to the local economy and foster cultural exchange. This community enhances bilateral relations through trade, education, and healthcare links.
    • Educational Collaboration: India has been a preferred destination for Nigerian students seeking higher education. Initiatives like the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program provide scholarships and training opportunities for Nigerians.

    How India and Nigeria Can Enhance Their Economic Collaboration?

    • Strengthening Trade Agreements: Finalizing a comprehensive economic partnership agreement can facilitate smoother trade flows and address market access issues for both nations.
    • Local Currency Settlement: Implementing a Local Currency Settlement System can mitigate exchange rate risks and streamline transactions between the two countries.
    • Sectoral Cooperation: Focusing on key sectors such as hydrocarbons, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, agriculture, and infrastructure can diversify economic exchanges and enhance mutual benefits.
    • Investment in Infrastructure: India can invest in Nigeria’s infrastructure development projects, leveraging its experience in various sectors to address Nigeria’s physical and social infrastructure deficits.
    • Utilizing the Indian Diaspora: Engaging the Indian diaspora in Nigeria as a bridge for business opportunities can enhance bilateral trade and investment flows.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Economic and Trade Partnership: Finalize a comprehensive economic partnership agreement and implement a Local Currency Settlement System to boost trade, reduce exchange risks, and expand collaboration in high-potential sectors like hydrocarbons, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy.
    • Leverage Soft Power and People-to-People Connections: Enhance cultural diplomacy and skill development initiatives, expanding ITEC programs and engaging the Indian diaspora to deepen ties and foster mutual goodwill, creating a resilient foundation for bilateral relations.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q “If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa’s.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in Africa in recent years. (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • What is the Student Direct Stream visa?

    Why in the News?

    Canada has discontinued the Student Direct Stream (SDS), ending faster processing for students from specific countries, including India.

    What is the Student Direct Stream (SDS) Visa?

    • The SDS is a fast-track visa processing program introduced by Canada in 2018 to expedite study permits for students from certain countries, including India.
    • Under SDS, applicants typically experienced processing times of around 20 days.
    • This stream was designed to simplify and speed up the application process for eligible students by requiring proof of financial stability (such as a Guaranteed Investment Certificate) and specific educational documentation.
    • The SDS applied to students from 14 countries, including: India, China, Pakistan, Vietnam, Trinidad and Tobago, among others.
    • Since its launch, SDS has been popular among Indian students, with a high approval rate for study permits in recent years.

    Why was SDS discontinued?

    • Fair Access: Moving to a single, standardized process aims to provide equal opportunity for all applicants.
    • Strengthened Protection: Canada intends to address student vulnerability by improving safeguards in its regular process.

    The changes are part of Canada’s broader immigration reforms, which also update financial requirements and study permit caps.

    How does the discontinuation affect Indian Students?

    Indian students will face:

    • Longer Processing Times: Visa approvals may now take longer under the standard process.
    • Additional Financial Proof: More financial documentation will be required.
    • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Changes: New rules from November 1, 2024 may impact work options after graduation.

  • Indian Ocean Dialogue (IOD)

    Why in the News?

    India and the US are set to hold the first US-India Indian Ocean Dialogue on November 14 strengthening cooperation over the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

    About the Indian Ocean Dialogue:

    • The Indian Ocean Dialogue (IOD) was established during the 13th Council of Ministers’ meeting in November 2013 in Perth, Australia, and is a flagship initiative of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA).
    • It functions as a Track 1.5 discussion, combining officials and non-officials for a more inclusive dialogue, with the latest (9th edition) held in May 2023 at Zanzibar, Tanzania.
    • Key areas discussed in 2024 Edition:
      • Strengthening Maritime Security: Enhances coordination on maritime freedom and security, crucial for trade routes and energy supply.
      • Economic and Environmental Cooperation: Supports trade, blue economy, and addresses climate change impacts on the region.

    Significance in India-U.S. Relations

    • Indo-Pacific Partnership: Reinforces Quad cooperation and aligns both nations’ strategic interests.
    • Power Balance in the Region: Counters influence from other powers, fostering an open Indo-Pacific.
    • Defense and Technology Collaboration: Expands ties in emerging tech and defense, enhancing India’s security role.
    • Disaster Preparedness: Builds climate resilience and sustainable resource management efforts.

    PYQ:

    [2017] Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):

    1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.

    2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime co-operation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • With Indonesia, India’s opportunity and Beijing’s eye

    Why in the News?

    On October 20, Indonesia saw a big change in leadership. Nationalist Prabowo Subianto became president.

    What are the implications of Indonesia’s new leadership for India-Indonesia relations?

    • Increased Competition with China: Prabowo’s administration may lead to a more assertive Indonesian foreign policy that seeks to leverage its strategic position between China and India. However, the extent of this assertiveness will depend on how Indonesia navigates its growing economic reliance on China while maintaining its sovereignty.
    • Potential for Enhanced Cooperation: Despite the challenges posed by China’s influence, India has an opportunity to deepen its engagement with Indonesia. This could involve collaborative efforts in sectors such as defence, maritime security, and trade, particularly given Indonesia’s strategic location and resource-rich economy.

    How does Indonesia’s relationship with China impact its foreign policy choices?

    • Strategic Balance: Prabowo’s decision to make China his first visit signals Indonesia’s pragmatic balancing between major powers. Despite concerns about China’s assertiveness in the Natuna Sea, Indonesia engages China for its economic clout and investments, especially in sectors like infrastructure and technology.
    • Wariness Over Chinese Influence: Indonesia’s hesitance toward China’s extensive control over economic assets provides India an opportunity to position itself as a complementary partner that respects Indonesia’s sovereignty, especially given mutual interests in upholding maritime security in the Indo-Pacific.
    • US-Indonesian Relations: Prabowo’s tenuous ties with the U.S. due to historical human rights allegations might encourage him to seek alternative partnerships, where India can play a constructive role in regional stability.

    What opportunities exist for India to enhance its economic engagement with Indonesia?

    • Energy and Mineral Resources: Indonesia’s rich reserves of coal, palm oil, nickel, and tin offer significant opportunities for India to secure its mineral and energy requirements, which aligns with India’s growing manufacturing and EV industries.
    • Infrastructure and Maritime Cooperation: India’s existing partnerships in infrastructure, such as developing the Sabang port, can be expanded to reinforce connectivity and enhance trade routes between the Nicobar Islands and Indonesia.
    • Services Sector Collaboration: India’s strength in IT and financial services can support Indonesia in reducing business costs and improving economic efficiency, particularly as it seeks to modernize and diversify its economy.
    • Tourism and Cultural Exchange: Given Indonesia’s growing middle class and India’s appeal as a tourist destination, there is potential to expand tourism and cultural exchanges that celebrate shared heritage, including Hindu-Buddhist traditions.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Strategic and Economic Partnerships: India should actively engage Indonesia in joint initiatives across defense, maritime security, and infrastructure, leveraging Indonesia’s strategic location and resources to build a resilient Indo-Pacific framework that counters China’s regional influence.
    • Deepen Cultural and Economic Ties: Expanding collaborations in sectors like IT, energy, and tourism, and celebrating shared heritage, will foster goodwill and position India as a trusted and complementary partner to Indonesia, reinforcing mutual growth and stability in the region.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Indian Diaspora has an important role to play in South-East Asian countries’ economy and society. Appraise the role of Indian Diaspora in South- East Asia in this context. (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • A mixed report card for the IMEC

    Why in the News?

    The India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC), announced at the 2023 G20 summit, aims to cut travel time by 40% and costs by 30%, which could transform global shipping once it’s up and running.

    What is IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Corridor)?

    • The IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Corridor) is a major trade route connecting India, the Middle East, and Europe to reduce transit times and transportation costs, launched in 2023 during the G20 Summit.
    • It aims to strengthen regional partnerships through improved infrastructure, energy grids, and digital connectivity, providing an alternative to traditional maritime routes like the Suez Canal.

    What are the current challenges facing the IMEC initiative?

    • Geopolitical Tensions: The Israel-Palestine conflict, which escalated in October 2023, has stalled progress on the IMEC’s western segment, with Saudi Arabia and Jordan delaying collaboration due to potential geopolitical and optics issues related to their interactions with Israel.
    • Lack of Progress in West Asia: Due to the conflict, connectivity efforts in West Asia are moving slowly, affecting the northern part of the corridor, particularly the integration of infrastructure and trade processes with Israel and other stakeholders.
    • Incomplete Development of Additional Infrastructure: Beyond basic connectivity, elements such as clean energy exports, undersea fiber-optic cables, and telecommunication linkages are delayed and are expected to proceed only once stability is restored in West Asia.
    • Organizational and Logistical Framework: The absence of a central governing structure, like an IMEC secretariat, hinders streamlined cross-border trade processes and systematic project implementation, leading to coordination challenges among participating nations.

    How IMEC Aims to Enhance Regional Cooperation and Economic Growth?

    • Strengthening India-UAE Economic Relations: India and the UAE are advancing bilateral trade, leveraging frameworks like the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the Virtual Trade Corridor to standardize trade processes, reduce costs, and simplify logistics.
    • Improving Connectivity in the East: Progress on the eastern segment, particularly between India and UAE, is increasing trade and setting a foundation for cooperation through standardized trade practices and growing non-oil trade, which diversifies exports and enhances India’s regional integration.
    • Capacity Building: As the western segment awaits resolution of the regional conflict, eastern countries, especially India, are enhancing port infrastructure, digitalizing logistics, and developing economic zones to support connectivity and reduce trade barriers.
    • Potential for Economic Integration: Once operational, IMEC can link South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, encouraging deeper economic ties, lowering costs, and creating a stable trade pathway that could foster regional development and integration.

    What are the implications of IMEC for global trade dynamics?

    • Reduced Dependency on the Suez Canal: IMEC offers a strategic alternative to the Suez Canal, with an anticipated reduction in transit time by 40% and costs by 30%, which could significantly impact global trade routes by diversifying options and lowering shipping times and expenses.
    • India’s Role as a Supply Chain Alternative: By leveraging IMEC, India can enhance its position in global value chains as an alternative supply chain hub, aligning with its manufacturing ambitions and increasing export competitiveness through improved infrastructure and reduced logistics costs.
    • Reshaping Trade Infrastructure: The project introduces a new corridor that supports not only connectivity but also potentially includes energy infrastructure and digital linkages, providing a comprehensive trade infrastructure model that could influence future trade frameworks in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
    • Attracting Participation: The IMEC secretariat, once established, could guide strategic decision-making, build empirical support for trade benefits, and encourage more countries to join the corridor, potentially expanding IMEC’s impact on international trade and cooperation in regions connected to it.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Geopolitical Stability: Address regional tensions, especially in West Asia, to ensure smoother collaboration among stakeholders and accelerate the development of the western segment of the IMEC.
    • Develop an IMEC Secretariat: Establish a central coordinating body to streamline operations, facilitate cross-border trade, and guide infrastructure projects, ensuring systematic progress and attracting further global participation.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • [12th November 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: The LAC agreement, the détentes and the questions

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbour. (UPSC CSE 2014)

    Q) The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same. (UPSC CSE 2019)

    Mentor’s Comment:   The India-China border conflict is a complex and longstanding issue primarily centred around the 3,488-kilometer (2,167-mile) Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Himalayan region. Tensions have escalated significantly in recent years, particularly in June 2020.

    Both countries have recently reached a significant bilateral agreement regarding patrolling along their disputed border, specifically the LAC, in the context of the tensions that arose from the 2020 Galwan Valley clash.

    Today’s editorial explores the pressing issues related to LAC between India and China’s recent agreement.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Two weeks after announcing military disengagement, a meeting between PM Modi and President Xi at the BRICS Summit led to positive gestures at the LAC, signalling renewed goodwill.

    Key Highlights of the Agreement:    

    • Resumption of Patrols: The agreement allows Indian and Chinese troops to resume patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in areas such as the Depsang Plains and Demchok, reverting to norms that existed before the 2020 tensions. This is expected to help reduce the likelihood of confrontations.  
    • Disengagement Process: The deal signifies that the disengagement process has been finalized, indicating a mutual understanding to pull back troops from certain friction points, which aims to stabilize the situation along the border.  
    • Monitoring Mechanism: Regular monitoring and monthly review meetings will be instituted to ensure compliance with the terms of the agreement, helping to maintain stability and prevent future clashes between both nations.  
    • Diplomatic Engagement: The timing of this agreement aligns with high-level diplomatic interactions, including potential meetings between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit, indicating a broader effort to normalize bilateral relations beyond military issues.

    No Clarity on this agreement: 

    • Unclear Agreement Details: India and China have not provided clear details on the new “patrolling arrangements” at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
      • Reports suggest possible PLA access in areas like Yangtse (Arunachal Pradesh), yet no official clarity exists.
    • Pattern of Ambiguity: Since the start of tensions in 2020, the government has provided limited information. This was first seen when violent clashes occurred at Pangong Tso in 2020, which the government downplayed in terms of changes in troop levels.
    • Impact of Buffer Zones: Although disengagement has occurred at some points like Depsang and Demchok, the establishment of buffer zones may hinder a full return to pre-2020 conditions without dismantling these zones.

    What are the reasons behind China’s actions on the Indian border?

    • Territorial Ambitions (Xi’s 2014 Policy): China’s increased aggressiveness, possibly a result of President Xi Jinping’s 2014 policy to control “every inch of territory,” has been evident across multiple regions, including Taiwan, South China Sea, Doklam, and the Tibet-India border.
    • Check on India-U.S. Partnership: China may be signaling that India’s maritime partnership with the U.S. will not mitigate India’s 3,500 km continental border challenges with China.
    • Infrastructure Security Concerns: India’s border infrastructure improvements, like Daulat Beg Oldie and new border roads, have heightened China’s security concerns around Xinjiang and Tibet. China’s own construction in the region may have increased in response.
    • Timing Linked to J&K Reorganization (August 2019): China reacted strongly to India’s changes in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly regarding Ladakh, leading some to believe this may have influenced China’s aggressive LAC moves in 2020.

    Need for Government Transparency (Way Forward)

    • Call for Openness in Sensitive Border Decisions: For sustainable peace and transparency with citizens, the government should clarify its plans for the northern region, especially given the unexpected events at the LAC.
    • Lessons from LAC Events: The government should review the causes and responses to Chinese transgressions, which took the public and officials by surprise, and communicate lessons learned.
    • Engaging Citizens: As a democratic government, India is urged to move away from “shock and awe” surprise announcements and foster transparency about national security moves with profound impacts on its citizens.

    https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/the-nilgiris-as-a-shared-wilderness/article68820359.ece

  • In news: Flashpoint Reef

    China reasserted its claim over Flashpoint Reef (the Scarborough Shoal) in the South China Sea following Philippines’ establishment of defined sea boundaries.

    Why in the News?

    China reasserted its claim over Flashpoint Reef (the Scarborough Shoal) in the South China Sea following Philippines’ establishment of defined sea boundaries.

    Do you know?

    • Fiery Cross Reef is a rock located in the Spratly Islands. China first took possession of the feature in 1988.
    • Mischief Reef is a Low-Tide Elevation (LTE) within the Philippines’ EEZ. It is part of the submerged continental shelf of the adjacent coastal state, which is the Philippines.

    About the Flashpoint Reef 

    • It generally refers to Scarborough Shoal, a contested reef in the South China Sea.
    • Known as Huangyan Dao in China, this reef has become a focal point of territorial disputes between China and the Philippines.
    • It lies close to the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) but is also claimed by China, which asserts control over nearly the entire South China Sea under its nine-dash line claim.
    • China took control of the shoal in 2012 after a standoff with the Philippines, despite an international tribunal ruling in 2016 that invalidated China’s claims.

    Its significance in the South China Sea

    • It is strategically located near key shipping lanes that are essential for global trade, with about one-third of global shipping passing through the South China Sea.
    • Its proximity to the Philippines, Vietnam, and China makes it an ideal location for military outposts, providing control over surrounding waters and a base for monitoring activities in the region.
    • Control over Scarborough Shoal could allow China to extend its air and naval reach, reinforcing its influence and deterrence capabilities over other Southeast Asian nations.
    • The South China Sea, including Scarborough Shoal, is believed to hold vast reserves of oil and natural gas—up to 11 billion barrels of oil and 190 trillion cubic feet of natural gas.
    • This reef is strategically important due to its proximity to rich fishing grounds and potential undersea mineral resources.

    PYQ:

    [2011] Southeast Asia has captivated the attention of global community over space and time as a geostrategically significant region. Which among the following is the most convincing explanation for this global perspective?

    (a) It was the hot theatre during the Second World War

    (b) Its location between the Asian powers of China and India

    (c) It was the arena of superpower confrontation during the Cold War period

    (d) Its location between the Pacific and Indian oceans and its preeminent maritime character