Home/upsc: regional & global groupings & agreements
- Recent Questions
- Most Answered
- Answers
- No Answers
- Most Visited
- Most Voted
- Random
- Bump Question
- New Questions
- Sticky Questions
- Polls
- Followed Questions
- Favorite Questions
- Recent Questions With Time
- Most Answered With Time
- Answers With Time
- No Answers With Time
- Most Visited With Time
- Most Voted With Time
- Random With Time
- Bump Question With Time
- New Questions With Time
- Sticky Questions With Time
- Polls With Time
- Followed Questions With Time
- Favorite Questions With Time
Examine the role of the India-China Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement (BPTA) in mitigating border tensions between India and China.
How The India-China Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement (BPTA) Helps In Containing Border Tension A landmark bilateral agreement between India and China, the India-China Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement (BPTA), was signed on September 7, 1993 and has been instrumental in managing and reduciRead more
How The India-China Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement (BPTA) Helps In Containing Border Tension
A landmark bilateral agreement between India and China, the India-China Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement (BPTA), was signed on September 7, 1993 and has been instrumental in managing and reducing border tensions between the two countries. The agreement is effective since 1994 and aims to provide a framework for peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de facto border between India and China. In this article, we will see the important provisions of BPTA and understand the context of BPTA in the disputes between Indo-China border with our analysis of its achievements and limitations.
Historical Context
The India-China boundary is long and complicated, with much of the 3,488 km line being undefined and claimed by both sides. The largest territorial disputes lie in the west, in the Aksai Chin region, and in the east, in the Arunachal Pradesh region. These tensions have resulted in a number of confrontations, most notably the Sino-Indian war of 1962. The evidence suggested that there was a need for mechanism to avoid such conflicts and maintain mutual respect and understanding.
Key Provisions of the BPTA
Several key provisions of the BPTA seek to ease border tensions and encourage peaceful cohabitation:
CBMs (Confidence-Building Measures)
The treaty called for both countries to recognize the LAC and refrain from any use or threat of use of force against each other.
They agreed on the need to reduce forces in the border regions and to clarify the alignment of the LAC.
Regular Border Meetings:
It included provisions for regular meetings between border personnel at multiple levels to discuss and resolve border issues amicably.
Joint working groups and processes were put in place to communicatie and collaborate.
Advance Notice and Coordination:
The two will also give prior warning of military activities and exercise near the LAC.
They also pledged to work together to address border infrastructure and patrolling issues.
Liberal pseudo-legal and pseudo-diplomatic frame:
The BPTA offered a legal and diplomatic structure to settle border disputes through dialogue and negotiation.
It stressed the necessity of a peaceful and stable border region for promotion of regional stability and economic cooperation.
Humanitarian Assistance:
The agreement included language on providing humanitarian assistance in the event of natural disasters or other emergencies along the border.
It also enabled exchange of cultural and trade delegations to put relations on a better footing.
Achievements of the BPTA
Thus far, the BPTA has had several significant successes since being signed to defuse border tensions:
Decrease of Military Hostilities:
The arrangement has reduced the frequency and intensity of military confrontations along the LAC.
The two sides have mostly stuck to the CBMs, keeping tensions from spiraling into all-out war.
Enhanced Communication:
The exchanges of information of Indian and Chinese border personnel through regular border meetings and establishment of communication channels has also been improved.
This has helped prevent small disputes and误解s from growing into bigger problems.
Maintaining Stability in the Border Region
Moreover, the BPTA has played an important role in ensuring a general normalcy in the border region, so that New Delhi and Dhaka can channel their energies toward economic and other forms of cooperation.
With the agreement now signed, the military option is off the table, allowing dialogue and negotiation to proceed without the specter of potential military action looming.
Humanitarian Impact:
The humanitarian assistance provisions have proved helpful during natural disasters, with both countries extending aid to one another after the 2005 Kashmir earthquake.
Cultural and trade delegations have exchanged visits to facilitate mutual understanding and trust.
Limitations and Challenges
The BPTA, despite its successes, has encountered some limitations and challenges:
Undefined LAC:
The LAC is not clearly defined in many areas, resulting in different interpretations by both sides.
That ambiguity tends to create patrol standoffs and temporary encroachments, which can also strain relations.
Non-Adherence to Provisions:
One or both sides have sometimes fallen short of full compliance with BPTA provisions.
The Galwan Valley clash of 2020 and tension on the Depsang Plain in 2021 bear testimony to the continuing challenges in maintaining peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Strategic Interests:
The border regions hold strategic interests for both India and China, encompassing resource access and geopolitical dominance.
As such, these interests often supersede the BPTA provisions so as to block a sustainable resolution of the conflicts.
Political Tensions:
Again, political controversies and international factors (relations with other countries) can affect the implementation of the BPTA.
Strained relations with Pakistan have often been accompanied by heightened tension on the border.
Conclusion
The India-China Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement (BPTA) has functions as an essential instrument for managing the complex and often fragile border disputes between India and China. While the agreement has been successful in curtailing military actions and bettering communication, it remains hampered by the ambiguous status of LAC, both countries’ strategic ambitions and political posturing. It may be flawed and limited, but even now the BPTA provides an essential framework for sustaining peace and stability in the region. Now, both countries must continue implementing it, in full, and pursue supplemental actions that treat the roots of their border conflicts.
See lessExamine how India's growing defence diplomacy enhances its regional influence.( 200 Words)
Indias Increasingly Assertive Defence Diplomacy: — The Seriousness Of Regional Impact Introduction India has developed as an important player in world and regional politics in the recent past and it is primarily on account of its strategic focus on defence diplomacy. It is essentially a strategy toRead more
Indias Increasingly Assertive Defence Diplomacy: — The Seriousness Of Regional Impact
Introduction
India has developed as an important player in world and regional politics in the recent past and it is primarily on account of its strategic focus on defence diplomacy. It is essentially a strategy to gain influence in the region using military capabilities, joint exercises, defence agreements and arms sales as tools of engagement to increase ties. India’s defence diplomacy is not only bordering on the realm of the possible, but it is actively surpassing it, reinforcing India’s position as a major player asian region with strategic partnerships that bolster India’s interests. In this article, the author consensually explores the structure of different facets of the expanding Indian defence diplomacy and the contemporaneous effects in and around the South Asian and the Indo-Pacific expanse.
Historical Context
Traditionally strong military ties: India’s military ties have been traditionally strong with likes of Russia and the Soviet Union. But since the end of the Cold War, India has attempted to diversify its defence partnerships with a wider range of countries. The mothers of children involved in treaties did not stay home, nor were they passive in treaties; they often led their children.
Strategic Partnerships
United States
The defence relationship with the United States has expanded substantially with India since the India-U. S. Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) in 2012 and Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) in 2018. Such deals have paved the way for joint transfer of sophisticated military technology and have led to increased operational coordination. Such joint exercises, like “ MALABAR”— which has expanded to include Australia and Japan — only deepen the strategic partnership and strengthen India’s interoperability with U.S. forces.
Russia
Russia, however, remains an indispensable defence partner for India despite the pivot to Western alliance. Defence relations such as the S-400 missile defence system purchase and joint weapons development like the BrahMos missile make it clear that this relationship is one which endures. Support from Russia in defense technology and training is critical for India’s military modernization.
France
With its 1998 nuclear explosions, France became a strategic partner of India — and never more than in the Indo-Pacific region. Bilateral defence cooperation has received a major boost with induction of the Rafale fighter jets and signing of the Logistic Support Agreement (LSA) in 2016. Joint naval exercises like “VARUNA” which not only boosts maritime security capabilities but also mutual trust between the two countries.
Israel
Since the 1990s, India’s defence partnership with Israel has expanded dramatically. Israel is now among India’s leading defence suppliers, delivering sophisticated missile systems, drones and surveillance technology. This partnership played a key role in building capabilities for counter-terrorism in India and has also supported India’s defence technological advancement efforts.
ASEAN and Countries of the Indo-Pacific
Through the “Act East” policy, India has engaged with ASEAN and other Indo-Pacific nations in a very active manner. Joint exercises like “SIMBEX” with Singapore and “KAKADU” with Australia, Australia, have become fixtures. These exercises serve to strengthen military readiness and also generate goodwill and strengthen lines of tactical coordination. India’s arms supply to Vietnam and Indonesia has also facilitated their defence-building capabilities, and consolidated India’s foothold in that region.
Timelines – Defence Agreements and Frameworks
India has also sealed various defence agreements and frameworks to anchor its regional footprint. For instance, the India-Japan Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) and the India-Australia Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA). Such pacts enable the sharing of logistics and resources between the Indian and partner forces, thus becoming a force-multiplier.
Military Exercises
Military exercises are at the heart of India’s defence diplomacy. They range from boosting interoperability, building trust and demonstrating military capabilities. Exercises like “YUDH ABHYAS” with the United States, “INDRA” with Russia and “SHAKTI” with France aim to instill training in the full spectrum of operations and conduct for the military and foster greater bilateral military engagement.
Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR)
All this, combined with India’s ability to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), added to New Delhi’s regional heft. As signified by operations like Mission Vajra Pravaah in Nepal, and Indian Navy deployment for HADR in Maldives and Sri Lanka, India’s commitment to regional stability and security exemplified through initiatives like is being increasingly translated into reality. India has thus earned goodwill and respect in its neighbourhood.
Weapons sales and transfer of defence technology
India has become an increasingly significant supplier of defence equipment and technology to other countries in the region. Third, arms sales to countries like Myanmar, Vietnam, and the Philippines have brought economic benefits to the table, while serving to strengthen India’s strategic partnerships. Technology transfers and training programs also have strengthened relations and further solidified India’s standing in the region.
Challenges and Constraints
India has made strides in defence diplomacy, but is faced with challenges. For example, maneuvering a balanced course between Russia and the United States is not easy. On top of that, China is steadily increasing its military presence in the region, mainly in the Indian Ocean, as well. India also needs to overcome internal constraints, whether it is more military modernisation or indigenous defence capability development.
Conclusion
India’s defence diplomacy, which has notably increased its regional influence, is a strategic imperative. Through forceful partnerships, joint exercises, and delivery of humanitarian aid, India has qualified itself in the South Asian and Indo-Pacific regions as a partner that adds to regional security. But maintaining such power will demand ongoing investment in weaponry and a careful stance towards the politics of the region. With these challenges in mind, India’s defence diplomacy will continue to play a crucial role in addressing them while furthering its strategic interests, shaping the regional security architecture.
See lessExamine how India's growing defence diplomacy enhances its regional influence.( 200 Words)
Model Answer Expansion of India's Defence Diplomacy 1. Increased Military Exercises India has significantly expanded its military engagement, increasing the number of military exercises from 40 in 2018 to 75 in 2023, involving 55 bilateral and 20 multilateral exercises. This fosters interoperabilityRead more
Model Answer
Expansion of India’s Defence Diplomacy
1. Increased Military Exercises
India has significantly expanded its military engagement, increasing the number of military exercises from 40 in 2018 to 75 in 2023, involving 55 bilateral and 20 multilateral exercises. This fosters interoperability and enhances defence relations with partners like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and ASEAN nations.
2. Strategic Alliances
Initiatives like the Quad (India, USA, Japan, and Australia) shape the strategic landscape in the Indo-Pacific, underscoring India’s commitment to regional security and cooperation without formal military pacts.
3. Defence Exports and Training
India’s defence exports strengthen its neighbours’ defence capabilities. For instance, Dornier aircraft supplied to Sri Lanka and Maldives improve their maritime security and operational readiness.
4. Maritime Cooperation
India bolsters maritime security by providing coastal radars to countries like Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Mauritius, enhancing their Maritime Domain Awareness and securing the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
5. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)
India’s timely disaster responses, such as during the 2004 Tsunami and recent cyclones, position it as a reliable partner in crises, bolstering regional trust.
Impact on Regional Influence
1. Enhanced Security and Stability
Joint military initiatives improve regional coordination on counter-terrorism and maritime security, reducing threats.
2. Trust and Confidence Building
Regular defence interactions reduce tensions with neighbours, including Pakistan and China, fostering peace.
3. Strategic Depth and Influence
By establishing itself as a security provider, India shapes the IOR’s security architecture, gaining strategic leverage.
4. Economic Gains
Defence diplomacy complements economic partnerships, driving trade and investment growth in civilian sectors.
Conclusion
India’s growing defence diplomacy not only fortifies its security but also enhances its role as a regional leader. To sustain and expand this influence, India must invest in advanced defence technologies, international collaborations, and robust HADR capabilities.
See lessHow do evolving geopolitical dynamics underscore the strategic significance of the Bay of Bengal within the broader Indo-Pacific framework? Discuss the role of BIMSTEC in fostering regional cooperation and ensuring stability in this context.( 200 Words)
Model Answer Introduction The transition from the "Asia-Pacific" to the "Indo-Pacific" framework highlights the evolving geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the strategic significance of the Bay of Bengal. This shift has positioned BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and ERead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The transition from the “Asia-Pacific” to the “Indo-Pacific” framework highlights the evolving geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the strategic significance of the Bay of Bengal. This shift has positioned BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) as a critical mechanism for fostering regional integration and addressing shared challenges in the broader Indo-Pacific region.
Strategic Significance of the Bay of Bengal
Role of BIMSTEC in Promoting Stability
Conclusion
BIMSTEC’s relevance in the Indo-Pacific framework hinges on adopting the “3Cs” approach: Complementarities with ASEAN initiatives, enhanced Connectivity through sub-regional economic corridors, and better Coordination among member states. Strengthening BIMSTEC will be pivotal in addressing regional challenges and ensuring sustainable growth and stability.
See lessExamine the role of the India-China Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement (BPTA) in mitigating border tensions between India and China.
Model Answer Introduction: India-China BPTA, 1993 The India-China Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement (BPTA), signed in 1993, aimed to ensure peace and stability along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de facto border between India and China. The agreement sought to reduce the risk of unplannRead more
Model Answer
Introduction: India-China BPTA, 1993
The India-China Border Peace and Tranquility Agreement (BPTA), signed in 1993, aimed to ensure peace and stability along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de facto border between India and China. The agreement sought to reduce the risk of unplanned confrontations and provide a framework for managing border tensions.
Role in Reducing Border Tensions
Establishment of Framework
The BPTA laid out fundamental principles for maintaining peace along the LAC. It emphasized no use of force or threats, mutual non-aggression, and keeping military forces at a minimum level. This framework helped in reducing the likelihood of direct military confrontations between the two nations.
Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs)
The BPTA served as a foundation for various Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs). Notable among them was the Confidence-Building Measures Agreement (CBMA) of 1996, which prohibited large-scale military exercises and mandated prior notification of brigade-level troop inductions and de-inductions. These measures were crucial in ensuring transparency and trust-building between the two nations.
Military-to-Military Contacts and Standard Operating Procedures
BPTA facilitated military-to-military contacts between India and China. This paved the way for mechanisms such as the Working Mechanism for Coordination and Cooperation on India-China Border Affairs (2012), which aimed at resolving border incidents promptly and peacefully. The Protocol on Modalities for Implementation of CBMs in the Military Field (2005) further detailed steps to avoid escalation during border situations.
Disengagement Platforms
To aid in disengagement during tensions, specific points along the LAC—such as Spanggur (Western sector), Nathu La (Sikkim sector), and Bum La (Eastern sector)—were designated as Border Personnel Meeting (BPM) points, allowing personnel from both sides to engage in dialogue and resolve issues peacefully.
Conclusion
While the BPTA has contributed significantly to reducing border tensions, challenges like different perceptions of the LAC and incidents such as the 2020 Galwan Valley clash persist. However, through continued dialogue and diplomatic efforts, these disputes can be managed effectively.
See lessExamine the potential impacts of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) on India and the global economy. (Answer in 250 words)
Model Answer Implications for India Strategic Counter to China The IMEC provides India with a strategic platform to counter China's growing influence in the Gulf region. By participating in IMEC, India positions itself as a key player opposing China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), thereby ensuringRead more
Model Answer
Implications for India
Strategic Counter to China
The IMEC provides India with a strategic platform to counter China’s growing influence in the Gulf region. By participating in IMEC, India positions itself as a key player opposing China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), thereby ensuring its presence in the geopolitically crucial region. This aligns India as a counterweight to China’s economic and diplomatic dominance.
Economic Growth and Trade Facilitation
IMEC promises to significantly reduce transportation time and costs, unlocking new trade routes between India, West Asia, and Europe. Trade with countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, and Greece is set to grow, benefiting key sectors like engineering goods, green hydrogen, and green ammonia. Transportation costs to Europe could decrease by 30%, while time taken could reduce by 40%, improving India’s export competitiveness.
Diplomatic and Geopolitical Significance
India’s involvement in IMEC strengthens its diplomatic ties with Middle Eastern and European nations. The corridor provides an opportunity for cultural exchanges, dialogue, and enhanced regional cooperation, bolstering India’s global standing in shaping future geopolitical dynamics.
Economic Integration
IMEC will foster regional economic integration by increasing trade accessibility, securing supply chains, and reducing operational costs. The corridor is poised to create job opportunities, promote sustainable economic practices, and support India’s growing role in regional and global economic cooperation.
Implications for the World
- Broader Eurasian IntegrationIMEC acts as a catalyst for a more interconnected Eurasian supercontinent, linking Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. This integration will likely shift the global economic center of gravity eastward, with both the US and Europe contributing to the creation of a balanced Eurasian order.
- Clean Energy and Technological Advancement
See lessIMEC is designed to support the development and export of clean energy, integrating energy and telecommunication grids. This will not only enhance energy security in the region but also promote sustainable development through technological advancements.
Discuss the importance of India's 'Look West' policy in improving regional connectivity and promoting strategic cooperation. Additionally, highlight the challenges India faces in its engagement with the region. (Answer in 250 words)
Model Answer Enhancing Regional Connectivity: India's 'Look West' policy plays a crucial role in improving regional connectivity, particularly through infrastructure projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. This initiative aims to develop cost-effective cross-border transit routRead more
Model Answer
Enhancing Regional Connectivity:
India’s ‘Look West’ policy plays a crucial role in improving regional connectivity, particularly through infrastructure projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. This initiative aims to develop cost-effective cross-border transit routes by combining maritime and rail networks, enhancing economic integration across the region.
Trade and Economic Integration:
The policy has significantly boosted trade ties between India and West Asia. For example, after the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, bilateral trade saw a 27.5% increase. This trade partnership fosters economic growth, benefiting both regions through expanded market access and investment opportunities.
Energy Infrastructure:
Energy cooperation is another key area, with initiatives like the India-Saudi Arabia power grid linkage. This collaboration not only strengthens India’s energy security by facilitating resource imports but also contributes to regional economic development.
Fostering Strategic Cooperation:
India’s strategic cooperation in West Asia is vital for counterterrorism efforts and security. Joint military exercises with countries like the UAE and Oman enhance India’s intelligence-sharing and maritime security capabilities. Additionally, technological partnerships, such as the collaboration with Israel on space systems, underline India’s growing presence in high-tech sectors.
Challenges in India’s Engagement
Balancing Multiple Interests:
India faces the challenge of balancing its relationships with diverse countries in the region. For instance, maintaining ties with both Israel and Arab nations like Saudi Arabia and Iran requires careful diplomacy due to their complex geopolitical conflicts.
Energy Security:
India’s heavy dependence on West Asian oil exposes it to risks from price volatility and regional instability. Conflicts in countries like Syria, Yemen, and Iraq further threaten the stability of energy supply routes.
Rising Influence of China:
The increasing presence of China in the region, especially in sectors like technology, challenges India’s strategic objectives. Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are developing closer ties with China, complicating India’s efforts to assert its influence.
In conclusion, India’s ‘Look West’ policy is pivotal in fostering economic growth and strategic cooperation, though it must carefully navigate regional complexities and emerging global dynamics.
See lessAlthough it has not advanced as quickly as many had anticipated, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) has established itself as a central platform for coordinating certain aspects of security and economic cooperation. Discuss. (Answer in 250 words)
Model Answer Introduction The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), since its inception in 2001, aimed to foster political, economic, and security cooperation among member states in Eurasia. While it has made notable strides in certain areas, its overall progress has been slower than many expecteRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), since its inception in 2001, aimed to foster political, economic, and security cooperation among member states in Eurasia. While it has made notable strides in certain areas, its overall progress has been slower than many expected. Despite this, the SCO has successfully established itself as a key platform for regional cooperation, particularly in security and economic sectors.
Security Cooperation
Joint Military Exercises: The SCO has conducted regular joint military exercises, such as the Peaceful Mission, to enhance coordination and interoperability among the armed forces of member states. These exercises focus primarily on counterterrorism operations, a central concern for the organization.
Intelligence Sharing: Through the SCO-Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), the organization facilitates intelligence sharing among member states, enhancing collective security efforts against regional threats, such as terrorism.
Border Security Cooperation: The SCO has supported joint border operations to address issues like illegal migration and cross-border terrorism. For example, China’s People’s Armed Police has collaborated with Afghan and Tajik forces for counterterrorism patrols along their shared borders.
Economic Cooperation
Infrastructure Development: The SCO has facilitated key infrastructure projects to improve regional connectivity. Notably, the Samarkand Declaration outlines initiatives to enhance transportation and technological infrastructure, thereby fostering economic integration.
Financial Cooperation: The SCO Interbank Consortium, established to support investment in member states, has played a pivotal role. As of August 2022, China Development Bank had approved 63 projects worth $14.6 billion, demonstrating the financial support for regional development.
Boosting Trade and Investment: Trade among SCO members grew significantly, reaching $6 trillion by 2020, up from $667 billion in 2001. The SCO Business Council plays a vital role in fostering investment and trade among its members.
Challenges and Unfulfilled Projects
Despite these achievements, the SCO faces challenges in fulfilling its long-term economic goals. The Central Asia-China Gas Pipeline project has experienced significant delays due to pricing and transit disputes. Moreover, the proposed SCO Development Fund remains unrealized, with discussions continuing since 2013.
Conclusion
While the SCO has not advanced as rapidly as expected, its role in fostering security cooperation through joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and border security initiatives remains significant. In economic terms, the SCO has made progress in trade, investment, and infrastructure development, though several planned projects have yet to materialize. The organization’s future success depends on its ability to overcome internal differences and address the evolving needs of its member states.
See lessIn what ways does the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) promote economic cooperation and regional integration among its member states? What challenges does it face in achieving its goals? (Answer in 250 words)
Model Answer The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) plays a crucial role in fostering economic cooperation and regional integration among its 23 member states through various initiatives: Trade and Investment Facilitation: IORA promotes trade liberalisation by reducing barriers to the free flow ofRead more
Model Answer
The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) plays a crucial role in fostering economic cooperation and regional integration among its 23 member states through various initiatives:
Trade and Investment Facilitation:
IORA promotes trade liberalisation by reducing barriers to the free flow of goods, services, investment, and technology. The IORA Action Plan (2017-2021) set targets like promoting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and creating an online trade repository for member businesses to enhance economic integration.
Fisheries Management:
Recognising the importance of the Blue Economy, IORA has prioritised fisheries cooperation. The IORA Fisheries Support Unit leads efforts to address critical issues related to fisheries, ensuring sustainable resource management among its members.
Tourism and Cultural Exchanges:
A dedicated Core Group on Tourism works to enhance tourism and cultural exchanges, setting policy directions and facilitating cooperation to strengthen regional ties and promote people-to-people contact.
Disaster Risk Management:
Given the region’s vulnerability to natural and man-made disasters, IORA emphasizes multi-stakeholder cooperation in disaster risk management, involving governments, NGOs, and the private sector to reduce regional vulnerabilities.
Maritime Security:
To safeguard the strategic maritime routes in the Indian Ocean, IORA members cooperate on issues like piracy, maritime terrorism, and illegal fishing through initiatives like the IORA Working Group on Maritime Safety and Security.
Challenges Faced by IORA
Despite its efforts, IORA faces several hurdles in achieving its objectives:
- Economic Disparities: The diverse economic status of IORA’s members, from wealthy nations like the UAE and Singapore to developing countries such as Mozambique and Seychelles, results in unequal participation and benefits, leading to potential tensions.
- Geopolitical Tensions: Conflicts between major powers, such as the US-Iran, China’s regional disputes, and India-Pakistan tensions, have hindered effective cooperation within IORA.
- Overlapping Regional Organisations: IORA competes with other regional bodies like SAARC, ASEAN, and GCC for resources and attention, which can dilute its influence.
- Secretariat Issues: Frequent staff changes at the IORA Secretariat and its limited monitoring powers hinder the association’s institutional memory and effectiveness in executing its projects.
See lessEvaluate how the expansion of BRICS signifies a new phase in its evolution. Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of BRICS in the current context. (Answer in 250 words)
Model Answer Introduction The expansion of BRICS with the inclusion of new members such as Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Ethiopia at the 15th BRICS Summit marks a significant phase in the group's evolution. This expansion is an attempt to enhance BRICS' global influence, but it also bringsRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The expansion of BRICS with the inclusion of new members such as Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Ethiopia at the 15th BRICS Summit marks a significant phase in the group’s evolution. This expansion is an attempt to enhance BRICS’ global influence, but it also brings challenges related to differing national interests and governance systems.
Strengths of BRICS in the Present Scenario
1. Demographic and Economic Weight
BRICS now accounts for almost 46% of the global population, offering immense demographic leverage. Economically, its share of world GDP at purchasing power parity (PPP) has increased from 31.6% to over 35.6%, strengthening its global economic clout.
2. Strengthened Global Governance
With BRICS countries holding three consecutive G20 presidencies (India in 2023, Brazil in 2024, and South Africa in 2025), the bloc can push its agenda more effectively in global governance.
3. Voice of the Global South
The expansion is seen as a step towards promoting solidarity and strategic partnerships in the Global South, advancing multilateralism and inclusive global governance.
4. Reducing Dependence on the US Dollar
BRICS aims to reduce its reliance on the US dollar by encouraging the use of local currencies in international trade and financial transactions.
Weaknesses of BRICS in the Present Scenario
1. Heterogeneous Group
The group is ideologically and economically diverse. While some members, like Russia and China, have current account surpluses, others like India and South Africa face deficits. Additionally, the political regimes within BRICS vary, with some members being democracies and others authoritarian.
2. Limited Trade Integration
Despite the bloc’s large share in global exports (25%), intra-BRICS trade is limited, accounting for only 3.7% of global trade in 2021.
3. Fragile Geopolitical Unity
Geopolitical tensions, such as the ongoing India-China territorial disputes, create divisions within the bloc, affecting its ability to act cohesively on global issues.
4. Dominance of China
China’s overwhelming economic influence, contributing to over 50% of BRICS’s GDP, risks overshadowing the goals of other members and may lead to prioritizing China’s geopolitical interests.
Conclusion
BRICS represents both a powerful collective force and a complex coalition. While it enhances global influence, the group must navigate internal divisions and differing interests to make a meaningful impact on global governance.
See less