Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Briefly introduce the FMR and its purpose. Mention its significance in fostering cross-border movement, trade, and cultural ties between India and Myanmar. State the current scenario where India has decided to dismantle the FMR and fence the border. Positive Implications Improved ...
Model Answer Introduction India's relationship with Iran is an important aspect of its foreign policy, despite the challenges posed by its strategic partnership with the United States. Even though Iran faces strained relations with the West, particularly the US, India continues to prioritize its tieRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
India’s relationship with Iran is an important aspect of its foreign policy, despite the challenges posed by its strategic partnership with the United States. Even though Iran faces strained relations with the West, particularly the US, India continues to prioritize its ties with Iran, recognizing the multifaceted nature of this relationship. The significance of maintaining this relationship is driven by a range of geopolitical and economic factors.
Significance of Iran for India
Regional Connectivity: Chabahar Port and the INSTC
Iran plays a vital role in India’s regional connectivity. Through Iran, India can access Central Asia and Eurasia while bypassing Pakistan. This is especially important for India as it seeks to diversify trade routes and improve ties with landlocked countries. Iran’s Chabahar Port serves as a strategic gateway, and its link to the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and the Ashgabat Agreement further enhances connectivity. This infrastructure development is crucial for India’s economic and strategic interests in the region.
Energy Security: Reliance on Iranian Oil
Energy security remains one of India’s key concerns, and Iran has historically been a crucial partner in this regard. Despite recent challenges posed by US-backed sanctions, India has remained one of the largest importers of Iranian crude oil. Iran’s oil reserves are critical for India’s energy needs, and the ongoing relationship ensures India can maintain a steady supply of energy resources.
Rise of China: Strategic Implications
The strengthening of China-Iran ties further underscores the importance of India’s relationship with Iran. In 2021, China signed a 25-year, $400 billion deal with Iran, which provides China access to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. For India, deepening ties with Iran becomes increasingly essential to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the region.
Maritime Security: Strait of Hormuz
Iran’s location near the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20 million barrels of oil and 10 billion cubic feet of LNG pass daily, makes it a key player in regional maritime security. For India, collaborating with Iran helps secure vital sea lanes that are crucial for trade and energy shipments.
Conclusion: Safeguarding Autonomy and Prioritizing National Interests
India’s diplomatic efforts to balance its relations with the US while maintaining strong ties with Iran reflect its strategic priorities. By maintaining this relationship, India can safeguard its regional connectivity, energy security, and maritime interests, all while asserting its autonomy on the global stage.
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Model Answer Introduction The Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar allowed people from both countries to travel up to 16 km into each other's territory without a visa. This system fostered border trade, cultural exchanges, and strengthened ties. However, the recent decision by IndiaRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The Free Movement Regime (FMR) between India and Myanmar allowed people from both countries to travel up to 16 km into each other’s territory without a visa. This system fostered border trade, cultural exchanges, and strengthened ties. However, the recent decision by India to dismantle the FMR and fence the border raises several consequences for both countries.
Positive Implications of Scrapping FMR
1. Improved Surveillance and Border Control:
The fencing of the 1643 km border, coupled with enhanced surveillance, will curb illegal activities such as drug trafficking, timber trade, and smuggling of gold. For example, following Myanmar’s 2021 military coup, Manipur saw an increase in drug seizures from the border region.
2. Restriction on Illegal Migration:
The decision helps prevent the influx of illegal migrants from Myanmar, especially after the 2021 coup. Tensions in Manipur related to illegal migration of Kuki-Chin communities from Myanmar highlight this concern.
3. Reduced Cross-Border Insurgency:
Fencing the border can help prevent insurgent groups like the United Liberation Front of Asom from using Myanmar as a base for attacks in Assam.
Negative Implications of Scrapping FMR
1. Livelihood Impact:
Local border residents, such as those in Mizoram’s Zowkhatar village, depend on the ability to cross the border for work and trade. Ending the FMR will disrupt these livelihoods.
2. Strained Ethnic and Cultural Ties:
The FMR has facilitated long-standing cultural and familial connections between people on both sides of the border, particularly among ethnic groups like the Mizos and Nagas. Its termination could strain these ties.
3. Security Concerns:
The end of the FMR could inflame anti-government sentiments, potentially reviving insurgency movements, such as the Naga insurgency, which thrives on ethnic divisions.
4. Impact on India’s Act East Policy:
The FMR was integral to India’s Act East Policy, aimed at improving ties with Southeast Asia. Its removal might hinder India’s diplomatic and economic outreach to the region.
Conclusion
While the dismantling of the FMR provides certain security benefits, it comes with significant challenges, including social disruption, economic costs, and strategic setbacks. Balancing security needs with regional stability will be crucial moving forward.
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