MPSE 001 ASSIGNMENT ANSWERS

SECTION A

ANS. 1 – India’s foreign policy is not just a set of rigid

guidelines; it is a dynamic reflection of the country's
aspirations, security concerns, and global standing.
Shaping this policy is a collective effort, involving multiple
agencies that bring different perspectives and expertise
to the table. At the heart of this process is the Ministry of
External Affairs (MEA), which serves as the chief architect
of India’s diplomatic engagements. Headed by the
External Affairs Minister, the MEA formulates policies,
negotiates treaties, and represents India in global forums.
It maintains diplomatic relations with countries across the
world and ensures that India’s voice is heard on issues
ranging from trade to security. The ministry’s vast
network of embassies and high commissions acts as
India’s bridge to the world, handling everything from
trade negotiations to assisting Indian citizens abroad.

Another key player is the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO),

which plays a crucial role, especially in high-stakes
diplomacy and strategic decisions. The Prime Minister, as
the country’s top executive, often steers India’s foreign
policy direction based on his vision for international
relations. Major foreign policy moves—such as
agreements with neighboring countries, participation in
global summits, or handling crisis situations—often
involve direct inputs from the PMO. The National Security
Advisor (NSA), who works closely with the PM, provides
expert advice on security-related aspects of foreign
policy, ensuring that India’s diplomatic actions align with
its national security interests.

Foreign policy is not just about diplomacy; it also has a

strong economic component. Here, the ministry of
Commerce and Industry plays an essential role,
particularly in shaping trade policies, negotiating bilateral
and multilateral trade agreements, and attracting foreign
investments. India’s position in global trade blocs like the
World Trade Organization (WTO) is shaped by this
ministry’s policies. It ensures that India’s economic
interests are protected and that international
partnerships contribute to the country’s growth.

Security concerns also influence foreign policy, and

agencies such as the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the
Intelligence Agencies—including the Research and
Analysis Wing (RAW) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB)—
play a critical role. The MoD ensures that India’s military
partnerships, defense procurements, and strategic
alliances align with the country’s security needs. RAW,
India’s external intelligence agency, gathers information
on foreign developments that could impact India’s
security, providing crucial insights that shape diplomatic
decisions.

Parliament, too, has a role in foreign policy formulation,

particularly through committees that review international
agreements and policies. The Parliamentary Standing
Committee on External Affairs debates foreign policy
matters and ensures that there is democratic oversight
over key decisions.

Finally, India’s foreign policy is also shaped by public

opinion, media, and think tanks like the Observer
Research Foundation (ORF) and the Indian Council of
World Affairs (ICWA). These institutions conduct research,
provide expert analysis, and influence policymakers on
global affairs.

Together, these agencies ensure that India’s foreign

policy is a well-rounded mix of diplomacy, economic
strategy, and security considerations, enabling the
country to navigate an ever-changing global landscape
while protecting its national interests.

ANS. 2 – India and China, two of the world’s largest and

most powerful nations, share a long history of
interactions shaped by both cooperation and conflict.
While their relationship holds immense potential, it is also
marked by significant challenges that often create
tensions between them. The most pressing issue remains
the border dispute, particularly in the Ladakh and
Arunachal Pradesh regions. The two countries share a
3,488 km-long unmarked boundary, known as the Line of
Actual Control (LAC), which has led to multiple standoffs.
The most serious of these occurred in Galwan Valley in
2020, where soldiers from both sides clashed, leading to
casualties. Despite several rounds of diplomatic and
military talks, the border issue remains unresolved, with
both nations increasing their military presence in the
region.

Another major source of tension is China’s growing

influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean Region
(IOR). India sees itself as the dominant power in South
Asia, but China’s economic and strategic investments in
countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh
have raised concerns in New Delhi. The China-Pakistan
Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project under
China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), passes through
Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), a territory India claims
as its own. This has been a major diplomatic flashpoint,
as India sees it as a violation of its sovereignty.

Trade relations between the two countries are another

complex issue. China is India’s largest trading partner,
but the trade balance Is heavily skewed in China’s favor.
India imports a significant amount of Chinese goods,
including electronics, machinery, and pharmaceuticals,
while its exports to China remain comparatively low. This
trade deficit has raised concerns in India about economic
dependence on China. In recent years, India has sought
to reduce reliance on Chinese products by promoting self-
reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and banning several
Chinese apps following the 2020 border clashes.

The issue of Tibet and the Dalai Lama is another sensitive

subject. India has provided asylum to the Dalai Lama and
the Tibetan government-in-exile since 1959, which China
views as interference in its internal affairs. Any
engagement between Indian officials and Tibetan leaders
often leads to strong reactions from Beijing.

In the broader global arena, both countries compete for

influence. China’s increasing closeness with Pakistan and
its opposition to India’s membership in groups like the
Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and United Nations
Security Council (UNSC) has added to the friction. India,
on the other hand, has strengthened its ties with the
United States, Japan, and Australia through the Quad
alliance, which China sees as an attempt to contain its
rise.

Despite these challenges, both nations recognize the

importance of dialogue and cooperation. They share
platforms like BRICS, SCO, and RCEP, where they engage
diplomatically. However, true peace will depend on how
both countries manage their differences while focusing on
areas of mutual benefit like trade, climate change, and
regional stability. With two billion people between them,
India and China have the potential to shape the future of
Asia—if they can find a way to overcome their historical
and strategic differences.

ANS. 3 – India’s Neighborhood First Policy is a diplomatic

initiative that prioritizes strong and cooperative
relationships with its immediate neighbors—Bangladesh,
Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Myanmar, and
Pakistan. Launched formally in 2014, this policy aims to
enhance regional stability, economic integration, and
connectivity by fostering deeper political, trade, and
people-to-people ties. It reflects India’s vision of
“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family),
emphasizing that a stable and prosperous neighborhood
benefits all.

The policy has seen significant successes, especially in

strengthening economic and infrastructure ties. India has
undertaken major projects in its neighborhood, such as
power plants, highways, rail links, and digital connectivity
initiatives. With Bangladesh, relations have improved
remarkably, leading to the resolution of the long-standing
land boundary agreement and increased trade through
better connectivity. India’s investment in Bhutan’s
hydropower projects has benefited both nations, ensuring
Bhutan’s economic stability and India’s energy security. In
Sri Lanka and Maldives, India has extended crucial
economic and security assistance, especially during
crises like Sri Lanka’s economic collapse in 2022 and
Maldives’ water crisis in 2014.

Humanitarian aid has been another strong pillar of this

policy. India played a crucial role in supplying vaccines
and medical aid to its neighbors during the COVID-19
pandemic, strengthening goodwill in the region. India’s
prompt assistance to Nepal after the 2015 earthquake
and continuous relief to Afghanistan despite geopolitical
complexities also highlight the effectiveness of its
regional leadership.

However, the Neighborhood First Policy has faced

challenges and failures, particularly in managing political
complexities. Relations with Pakistan remain strained due
to border conflicts, cross-border terrorism, and historical
mistrust. Diplomatic engagement has been minimal, and
major disputes, including the Kashmir issue, continue to
overshadow potential cooperation.

In Nepal, political shifts have often led to fluctuations in

bilateral ties. India’s 2015 blockade, whether intentional
or not, created a perception of interference, leading
Nepal to strengthen its ties with China. Similarly, in Sri
Lanka, while India has invested significantly, China’s
increasing economic footprint—especially through large
infrastructure projects like the Hambantota Port—has
challenged India’s influence.

Economic assistance has also faced hurdles, with some

projects being delayed or not fully realized. For example,
India’s regional connectivity initiatives, like the BBIN
(Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal) Motor Vehicle
Agreement, have struggled due to bureaucratic and
political challenges.

Despite these setbacks, India remains committed to its

Neighborhood First Policy, adapting its approach based on
evolving regional dynamics. The success of this policy
ultimately depends on consistent engagement, timely
economic assistance, and maintaining a balance between
diplomacy and mutual respect. As global power shifts,
India’s ability to maintain trust, cooperation, and
leadership in South Asia will determine the long-term
effectiveness of this initiative.

ANS. 4 – Over the last decade, India’s foreign policy has

undergone significant transformations, reflecting its
growing aspirations, changing geopolitical realities, and a
shift in diplomatic strategy. While India has always aimed
for a balanced and independent foreign policy, recent
years have seen a more assertive, pragmatic, and
globally engaged approach. This change is driven by both
internal and external factors, including economic growth,
security concerns, and the evolving world order.

One of the most notable shifts has been India’s increasing

global engagement. From being a regional player, India
has positioned itself as a key global stakeholder. It has
strengthened ties with major powers like the United
States, European Union, Japan, and Australia, moving
beyond its traditionally non-aligned stance. This is
evident in the formation and strengthening of the Quad
alliance (India, US, Japan, and Australia), aimed at
countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific. Unlike the
past, where India maintained a cautious distance from
strategic alliances, it now actively participates in global
security dialogues.

Another major transformation is the assertiveness in

border and security policies, particularly concerning China
and Pakistan. The 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019
Balakot airstrikes marked a decisive shift in India’s
response to cross-border terrorism, signaling a departure
from passive diplomacy. The Galwan Valley clash in 2020
further cemented India’s stance on border security,
leading to military and economic countermeasures
against China, including banning several Chinese apps
and reducing economic dependence.
The last decade has also seen a strong push for economic
diplomacy. India has focused on attracting foreign
investment, expanding trade, and leveraging platforms
like the G20, where it assumed the presidency in 2023.
Through initiatives like “Make in India”, “Atmanirbhar
Bharat” (Self-Reliant India), and digital diplomacy, India is
strengthening its economic outreach. However, it has also
adopted a more selective approach to trade agreements,
pulling out of the Regional Comprehensive Economic
Partnership (RCEP) in 2019 to protect domestic industries.

A key foreign policy shift has been India’s proactive

neighborhood strategy under the Neighborhood First
Policy. India has enhanced relations with Bangladesh,
Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Maldives, providing
infrastructure support, financial aid, and humanitarian
assistance. However, challenges remain, particularly in
managing China’s growing influence in South Asia.

At the same time, India has deepened its engagement

with West Asia. It has strengthened ties with UAE, Saudi
Arabia, and Israel, balancing relationships with traditional
partners like Iran. The signing of strategic energy and
defense agreements with these nations highlights India’s
expanding geopolitical footprint beyond its immediate
region.
Another noticeable change is India’s climate and
technology diplomacy. It has taken leadership roles in
global initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA)
and actively participated in climate discussions. India’s
growing focus on space diplomacy, digital governance,
and AI partnerships further reflects its ambition to be a
global leader in emerging technologies.

Overall, India’s foreign policy in the last decade has

become more strategic, ambitious, and adaptive. It
balances economic growth, security concerns, and global
responsibilities while maintaining its core principles of
sovereignty and strategic autonomy. This shift marks
India’s journey from a regional power to a key global
player in the 21st century.

ANS. 5 – The Nehruvian Consensus refers to the

foundational principles of India’s political, economic, and
foreign policy framework, shaped by Jawaharlal Nehru,
India’s first Prime Minister. It was a vision that guided
India in its early years after independence, focusing on
democratic socialism, secularism, non-alignment, and
state-led economic development. This consensus was not
just a political ideology but a blueprint for shaping
modern India, ensuring stability, unity, and growth in a
diverse and newly independent nation.
At its core, the Nehruvian Consensus emphasized
democracy and secularism. Nehru strongly believed that
India, despite its vast religious, linguistic, and cultural
diversity, could only survive as a secular democracy.
Unlike neighboring countries that leaned toward religious
nationalism, India adopted a secular framework, ensuring
that the state did not favor any particular religion. This
was a crucial decision, as India’s partition had already
created deep communal divisions. Nehru’s vision ensured
that India remained inclusive, giving equal rights to
people of all religions.

Another key pillar of this consensus was economic

planning and socialism. Nehru was deeply influenced by
socialist ideals and believed that the state should play a
central role in economic development. This led to the
adoption of the Five-Year Plans, where the government
controlled key industries, infrastructure, and banking. The
Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) became the backbone
of India’s economy. The idea was to ensure self-
sufficiency, reduce dependence on foreign capital, and
protect Indian industries. However, this approach also led
to excessive bureaucracy and inefficiencies, which later
became a challenge.

In foreign policy, the Nehruvian Consensus was defined

by non-alignment. At a time when the world was divided
between the United States-led Western bloc and the
Soviet Union-led Eastern bloc, India chose to remain
neutral and independent. This led to the formation of the
Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), which allowed India to
engage with both sides while safeguarding its
sovereignty. Nehru’s vision ensured that India did not
become a pawn in the Cold War but rather emerged as a
leader among newly independent nations.

The scientific and technological development of India was

another important aspect of Nehru’s policy. He laid the
foundation for institutions like IITs, ISRO, and AIIMS, which
have since become symbols of India’s progress. His
emphasis on education, research, and a modern scientific
outlook helped shape India’s future.

Despite its many strengths, the Nehruvian Consensus

faced criticism. The socialist model led to slow economic
growth, and excessive government control created
inefficiencies, later referred to as the “License Raj.” The
non-aligned policy, while maintaining India’s
independence, sometimes left the country isolated in
global affairs. Moreover, Nehru’s handling of the China
conflict in 1962 exposed weaknesses in his foreign policy
approach.

However, the legacy of the Nehruvian Consensus remains

strong. Many of its core principles—democracy,
secularism, self-reliance, and an independent foreign
policy—still shape India today. While India has moved
towards a more open economy and strategic global
alliances, Nehru’s vision provided the foundation upon
which modern India stands.

SECTION B

ANS. 6 –
(A) India’s foreign policy has traditionally been
centralized, with the Union government handling
diplomatic relations. However, in a country as
diverse as India, where different states have unique
geographical, economic, and cultural connections
with foreign nations, federal features have started
playing a role in shaping international engagements.
This emerging trend, known as subnational
diplomacy or para-diplomacy, allows Indian states to
engage with foreign countries in areas like trade,
investment, culture, and border management, while
the central government retains overall control.
One of the key areas where federalism influences
foreign policy is economic diplomacy. Many Indian
states have their own investment summits to attract
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and promote exports.
Events like Gujarat’s Vibrant Gujarat Summit, Tamil
 Nadu’s Global Investors Meet, and Karnataka’s
partnership with global tech companies highlight
how states actively engage with international
businesses. States also form sister city agreements
with global cities to promote trade, tourism, and
cultural exchange.
Cultural diplomacy is another area where states play
a crucial role. West Bengal’s close ties with
Bangladesh, Tamil Nadu’s connections with Sri Lanka,
and Punjab’s relationship with Pakistan due to shared
language and heritage influence diplomatic
exchanges. Similarly, northeastern states like Assam
and Manipur have deep economic and ethnic ties
with Myanmar and other Southeast Asian countries,
contributing to India’s Act East Policy.
Border states also impact foreign policy, especially in
water-sharing agreements and cross-border trade.
For instance, Punjab is directly affected by India-
Pakistan relations, while West Bengal plays a role in
water treaties with Bangladesh.
While foreign policy remains primarily under the
central government, the increasing involvement of
states in economic, cultural, and regional diplomacy
reflects the growing federal dimensions in India’s
global engagement.

(B) India’s SAGAR Policy (Security and Growth for All

in the Region) is a strategic vision introduced in 2015
to enhance India’s role in the Indian Ocean Region
(IOR). The policy reflects India’s commitment to
ensuring maritime security, economic cooperation,
and sustainable development in the region while
fostering strong relationships with neighboring
countries. Given India’s vast coastline and its
reliance on the ocean for trade, SAGAR is not just
about diplomacy—it’s about safeguarding national
and regional interests.
A key focus of SAGAR is maritime security. With
increasing threats like piracy, illegal fishing, and
military assertiveness by other powers, India has
strengthened naval cooperation with countries such
as Sri Lanka, Maldives, Seychelles, and Mauritius.
India actively supports these nations by providing
coastal surveillance systems, training programs, and
humanitarian assistance during crises.
Another crucial aspect is economic and trade
connectivity. The Indian Ocean is a major global
trade route, and SAGAR aims to improve port
infrastructure, shipping networks, and regional trade
agreements. Initiatives like the Sagarmala Project
focus on modernizing India’s ports and enhancing
connectivity with neighboring countries to boost
economic growth.
India also plays a major role in disaster relief and
humanitarian assistance under the SAGAR
framework. Whether it was providing relief to
Mozambique after Cyclone Idai or assisting Sri Lanka
and Maldives during economic crises, India has
positioned itself as a first responder in the region.
 Through SAGAR, India is strengthening its influence
in the Indo-Pacific, countering China’s growing
presence, and ensuring that the Indian Ocean
remains a region of peace, stability, and shared
prosperity. It reflects India’s belief that the ocean
should unite, not divide, the nations that depend on
it.

ANS. 7 –
(A) The South Asian Association for Regional
Cooperation (SAARC) is an organization that brings
together eight South Asian countries—India,
Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan,
Maldives, and Afghanistan—to promote economic
and regional cooperation. Established in 1985,
SAARC was created with the vision of fostering
peace, development, and partnership among its
member nations, recognizing that South Asia,
despite its diversity, shares common challenges and
opportunities.
SAARC has made important contributions in areas
like trade, education, health, and disaster
management. The South Asian Free Trade Area
(SAFTA) was introduced to promote trade and
economic integration among members. Additionally,
SAARC has worked on climate change, poverty
reduction, and healthcare initiatives, such as setting
up the SAARC Disaster Management Centre and the
 SAARC Development Fund to support regional
projects.
However, despite its potential, SAARC has faced
several challenges. The long-standing political
tensions, especially between India and Pakistan,
have often stalled progress. Many key agreements
remain unimplemented due to a lack of political will
and trust among members. The last SAARC Summit
was held in 2014, and subsequent meetings have
been postponed due to diplomatic conflicts.
In recent years, India has focused more on
alternative regional groupings like BIMSTEC (Bay of
Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and
Economic Cooperation) and bilateral partnerships to
bypass SAARC’s inefficiencies. However, the COVID-
19 pandemic revived some SAARC cooperation, with
India leading efforts to create a SAARC COVID-19
Emergency Fund.
Despite its setbacks, SAARC remains important as a
platform for dialogue and regional collaboration. If
political differences can be set aside, it has the
potential to transform South Asia into a more
connected, peaceful, and prosperous region.

(B) The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral

Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a
regional organization that brings together India,
Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and
Thailand to promote economic and strategic
cooperation. Established in 1997, BIMSTEC focuses
on trade, connectivity, security, and cultural
exchange, aiming to create a bridge between South
and Southeast Asia.
One of BIMSTEC’s biggest strengths is its
geographical advantage. The Bay of Bengal region is
home to over 1.7 billion people and plays a crucial
role in global trade. By enhancing port connectivity,
transport networks, and energy cooperation,
BIMSTEC aims to boost regional growth. Projects like
the BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement and the
BIMSTEC Grid Interconnection are steps toward
deeper economic integration.
Security cooperation is another key area. BIMSTEC
members face common challenges like terrorism,
cyber threats, and human trafficking. Unlike SAARC,
which often faces political roadblocks, BIMSTEC has
managed to push forward with counter-terrorism
initiatives and joint military exercises.
However, BIMSTEC faces challenges too. Progress
has been slow due to bureaucratic delays, funding
issues, and political differences among member
countries. Unlike ASEAN or the European Union,
BIMSTEC lacks a strong institutional framework,
making decision-making sluggish.
Despite these hurdles, BIMSTEC has gained
momentum in recent years, with India taking a
leading role in strengthening its structure. It is seen
as a viable alternative to SAARC, which has been
stalled due to tensions between India and Pakistan.
With greater commitment, BIMSTEC has the potential
to transform the Bay of Bengal region into a hub of
economic growth, security, and cultural exchange,
benefiting millions across South and Southeast Asia.