Government of India Act of 1919
Government of India Act of 1919 The Act provided a dual form of government (a ‘diarchy’) for the major provinces. It relaxed control over provinces by demarcating subjects as ‘central subjects’ and ‘provincial subjects’. Provincial subjects were further divided as – Administered by the governor with the help of his ‘Executive Council’. The ‘reserved list’ included Defence (the military), Foreign Affairs, and Communications. Administered by Governor with the aid of ‘Ministers’ responsible for ‘Provincial Legislative Council’. The ‘transferred list’ included Agriculture, supervision of local government, Health and Education. This dual system of government was known as ‘Diarchy’. This new system, however, failed to gain popular acceptance and Simon Commission recommended that Diarchy should be done away with and 1935 Act did the same. For the first time introduced ‘Direct Elections’ and limited franchise was granted on the basis of tax paid, education, property etc. in the country. The electorates were considerably enlarged to 5.5 million for the provinces and 1.5 million for the imperial legislature. A bicameral system at centre (the Central Legislature would comprise two chambers – the Council of State and the Indian Legislative Assembly) was introduced and majority members of both the houses in this bicameral system were directly chosen. Establishment of unicameral Provincial Legislative Councils. The Central Legislature was empowered to enact laws on any matter for the whole of India. Separate Electoral provision of Morley Minto was retained and extended to the Muslims, Sikh Seats were reserved for the non-Brahmans in Madras and the ‘depressed classes’ were offered nominated seats in the legislatures at all l The revenue resources were divided between the centre and the provinces, with land revenue going to the provinces, and income tax remaining with the centre. The Governor-General was given powers to summon, prorogue, dissolve the Chambers, and to promulgate ordinances. Thus, despite reserved and transferred list, governor-general decision was final. The number of Indians in Viceroy’s Executive Council was increased to three out of eight members. The number was increased. however, the council still remained at best an advisory body and no real power conferred. Significance of the reform of 1919 It established parliamentary democracy in India and beginning of the process of decolonisation”. For the first time government showed its intention of gradualintroduction of responsible government in India. The structure of this Act also allowed Britain to use the Princely States (who were directly represented in the Council of States) to offset the growing power of the native political parties. One important significance of the reforms was that demand by nationalists for self-government or Home Rule couldn’t be termed as seditious since the attainment of self-government for Indians now officially became a government policy which was indicated in August Declaration of Montague. Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. join now
India and Its Neighbourhood
India and Its Neighborhood India and Pakistan – Major Issues between India and Pakistan Jammu and Kashmir The Indian Independence Act, 1947 created the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Princely states had choice to be part of two nations. The state of Jammu and Kasmir had an overwhelming Muslim population ruled by a Hindu King, Raja Hari Singh. The state signed standstill agreements with both India and Pakistan and wanted more time to decide the course of their future. Meanwhile, Pakistani army men dressed as tribal invaders from the North West Frontier Province invaded the state on October 22nd, 1947. The raja appealed to India for help on October 24th. Prime Minister Nehru on the advice of the then Governor General, Lord Mountbatten asked the Raja to sign the Instrument of Accession to India, it would not have been possible to help otherwise as India was not obliged to help any state which was not a part of it. The Instrument of Accession was signed on October 26th October 1947. This document proclaimed the state of Jammu and Kashmir to be an INTEGRAL part of India and surrendered three main subjects to the Central Government. The three subjects were Defence, Communications and External Affairs. On December 31st, 1947, India raised this issue at the United Nations. Committed to the principles of the UN Charter and believing in International Law, India thought that this was a simple issue and Pakistan would be asked to move back its troops as they were the aggressors. India became a victim of the cold war politics and most of the members of the UNSC took Pakistan’s side and a resolution was moved calling for a ceasefire. An UNMOGIP (UN Military Observers Group for India and Pakistan) was appointed. The Karachi Agreement of 1949 delineated the Cease Fire Line (CFL) in the state of J & K. The line is up to Point NJ 9842 beyond which lies the Siachen Glacier. The UN Resolution calls on both India and Pakistan to withdraw troops from Jammu and Kashmir and a plebiscite to be held once the first condition is achieved. Pakistan refused to comply with the resolution and continues to hold on to 1/3 of the territory of the state illegally. Pakistan has tried to unilaterally alter this position, and this had led to three wars between the two sides including 1948 (the 1971 war was fought over the liberation of East Pakistan or modern day Bangladesh. Though the fighting did take place in the western sector. The war of 1965 ended in a stalemate with the signing of the Tashkent Agreement in January 1966. The war of 1971 was not directly related to the dispute of J&K, however, there were implications. The war was called the Bangladesh Liberation war. The Indians had captured large parts of Sindh, Punjab in the western sector and had liberated East Pakistan and helped in the creation of Bangladesh. Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Bhutto met at Shimla in January 1972 and signed the Shimla Agreement. This was the best opportunity for India to have crippled the Pakistani Army and insured for a better future. The Shimla Agreement also converted the Cease Fire Line (CFL) into the Line of Control (LOC). It also had a clause that India and Pakistan were to work towards achieving peace and both sides would avoid vitriolic campaigns against each other. All disputes between the two sides were to be solved bilaterally in a peaceful manner through negotiations. Especially on this issue of J&K, India has been consistent in its position that it is a bilateral issue to be solved by India and Pakistan and there is no place for any third-party intervention. Pakistan believes in the exact opposite despite the Shimla Agreement. The treaty, like others, lasted only a few months before Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto continued spewing hatred against India. He is said to have issued a statement which called for bleeding India through a thousand cuts. It is a policy that the deep state continues to follow through unconventional warfare. Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Nawaz Sharif had just concluded the Lahore Agreement of 1999. There was an atmosphere of good will which was conducive towards peace. Importance of Jammu and Kashmir Ideological and Religion: As Pakistan hopes to assume the leadership of the Islamic world, Kashmir will be their stepping stone towards this objective. National Interests: J&K acts as a glue to keep Pakistan united. The dispute unites all people and provides a respite to the government which otherwise would have to deal with all the social tensions and insurgency related issues. The Pakistani armed forces command an undue advantage in the nation. Strategic Location: The state of Jammu and Kashmir shares borders with Afghanistan, China, Pakistan, and the small Wakhan Strip separates it from the Central Asian Republics. This location gives it an advantage in the geo-political sense. It has been a part of the ancient silk route. Resources: The entire Indus river system passes through this state and the nation which controls it gets to dictate terms advantageous to it in the Geo-political sense. Along with this other important economic activities include Tourism, Agriculture etc. Siachen Dispute The Karachi Agreement of 1949 lays down the cease fire line (CFL) in the state J&K up to Point NJ 9842 on the map. There is confusion as to where the temporary border goes from there. The Karachi Agreement only says that the Ceasefire line shall run northwards from Point NJ 9842. India lays claim to the entire glacier due to this clause. Pakistan on the other hand insists that the ceasefire line runs eastwards from Point NJ 9842. This would grant them access to the entire glacier. Operation Meghdoot was launched by the Indian Army and the posts were captured in 1984 after Pakistan tried to occupy the glacier. Why is Siachen a disputed region? Saltoro Ridge occupation is staking a claim beyond NJ 9842 in the event of an eventual settlement along the Line of Control and the Actual Ground Position Line. India has always claimed that the entire state of J&K including Northern Areas acceded to India on 26 Oct 1947. Occupation of Saltoro is therefore the occupation of Indian territory by the Indian Army. It is non-negotiable. If the line joining NJ 9842 to
People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration
People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration is a political alliance between the multiple mainstream regional political parties of Jammu and Kashmir aimed at safeguarding and restoring special status along with Article 35A of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Farooq Abdullah is the president of the alliance. Significance The formation of the alliance follows the spirit of the Gupkar Declaration that was adopted on 4 August 2019, a day before the changes in the structure of the state were announced in Parliament. Amidst the rumours that the Government of India was going to take some unprecedented steps in relation to J&K, the representatives of six mainstream parties of Kashmir had resolved that modification, abrogation of Article 35A and Article 370, or unconstitutional delimitation, or trifurcation of the state would be an aggression against the people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. It was therefore resolved that all parties be united to protect and defend identity, autonomy and the special status of J&K. Read Also Digital Services Tax What is Peoples’ Alliance ? Peoples alliance is a coalition of Regional political parties in Jammu and Kashmir. The alliance came into existence for restoration of the special status of the erstwhile state as it existed before August 5 last year and also Initiative a dialogue between all stake holdersin the issue. Gupkar Declaration First Declaration: The Declaration signed on 4 August 2019 stated that modification or abrogation of Article 35A or Article 370 would be aggression against the people of J&K. The venue was the Gupkar Residence in Srinagar and thus it became known as the Gupkar Declaration. Gupkar Declaration II: Gupkar Declaration II, signed on 22 August 2020 by the six political parties asserted that the signatories were bound by August 4, 2019 Gupkar declaration and parties would strive for restoration of Article 370 and Article 35a. https://youtu.be/AwtNd2Oco4o Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. Join now
Justice Verma Committee (JVC) recommendation
Justice Verma Committee (JVC) recommendation: Punishment for Rape: The panel has not recommended the death penalty for rapists. It suggests that the punishment for rape should be rigorous imprisonment or RI for seven years to life. It recommends that punishment for causing death or a “persistent vegetative state” should be RI for a term not be less than 20 years, but may be for life also, which shall mean the rest of the person’s life. Gang-rape, it suggests should entail punishment of not less than 20 years, which may also extend to life and gang-rape followed by death, should be punished with life imprisonment. Punishment for other sexual offences: The panel recognised the need to curb all forms of sexual offences and recommended – Voyeurism be punished with upto seven years in jail; stalking or attempts to contact a person repeatedly through any means by up to three years. Acid attacks would be punished by up to seven years if imprisonment; trafficking will be punished with RI for seven to ten years. Registering complaints and medical examination: Every complaint of rape must be registered by the police and civil society should perform its duty to report any case of rape coming to its knowledge. “Any officer, who fails to register a case of rape reported to him, or attempts to abort its investigation, commits an offence which shall be punishable as prescribed,” the report says. The protocols for medical examination of victims of sexual assault have also been suggested. The panel said, “Such protocol based, professional medical examination is imperative for uniform practice and implementation.” Bill of Rights for women:A separate Bill of Rights for women that entitles a woman a life of dignity and security and will ensure that a woman shall have the right to have complete sexual autonomy including with respect to her relationships. The major differences between the Ordinance passed by the government and the J. S. Verma Committee recommendations were: The Justice J. S. Verma Committee recommended 20 years imprisonment for gang-rape and life imprisonment for rape and murder but refrained from using the term “death penalty” though there was public outcry to sentence rapists with death sentence following the brutal gang-rape and murder of a 23-year-old medical student in Delhi on December 16, 2012. However, the ordinance passed by the Cabinet went for a harsher punishment for a rapist – a minimum of 20 years imprisonment for rapists and even death penalty in extreme cases. Verma panel reccomended criminalization of marital rape but the ordinance rejected it. The Justice J. S. Verma Committee recommended restriction of politicians facing sexual offence charges from contesting elections. Ordinance rejected this recommendation. The panel recommended that the senior police or army officials be held responsible for sexual offences committed by their junior but the ordinance rejected it. The Justice J. S. Verma Committee wanted to make videography of recording statement from victim mandatory but the ordinance made it optional. The Justice J. S. Verma Committee wanted the definition for sexual offences as rape but the ordinance replaced it with the word “sexual assault”. Criticisms: The law has been severely criticized for being gender biased and giving women the legal authority to commit exactly the same crimes (against which they seek protection) against men with impunity. The Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance, 2013 has been strongly criticised by several human rights and women’s rights organisations for not including certain suggestions recommended by the Verma Committee Report like, marital rape, reduction of age of consent, amending Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act so that no sanction is needed for prosecuting an armed force personnel accused of a crime against woman. Conclusion: The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013 has been known all over as one of the most concrete steps taken by the Indian government to curb violence against women. Major amendments by the Act in the Indian Penal Code, not only widen the ambit of certain offences but also recognises new offences like acid attacks which earlier lacked a specific provision and definition in the Code.Despite its flaws, the Act bears a progressive insight to make an impact and fight a battle against violence against women. However, the Act by itself is not sufficient to redress and seek justice for violence against women. For this, the Government of India needs to make colossal investments in building necessary infrastructure to deal with the crimes supplemented by meaningful reforms in judiciary (building fast track women’s courts, more engagement of women lawyers, women doctors to examine victims) and modernisation of the police system across whole of India. Read Also PMJAY SEHAT scheme Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. Join now
Which is the best UPSC Test Series & When to Join Test Series for UPSC ?
Civil Service examination [CSE] is the most difficult competitive examination in India. CSE examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission [UPSC] every year for recruitment to higher civil services posts like Indian Administrative Service [IAS], Indian Foreign Service [IFS], and Indian Police Service [IPS]. Every year lakhs of Indians attempt the Civil Service exams. However, only a few thousand get through the exam. Unlike other competitive exams, UPSC exams require more than preparation. You need to develop a strategy and technique to cover the entire syllabus of the exam. One such technique that helps the UPSC aspirants is joining the test series offered by various academies and institutes online and offline. What is the UPSC Test Series for Mains and Prelims? UPSC test series consists of a series of tests that helps the civil service aspirant to cover the entire syllabus in-depth and strategically help them to revise the chapters. Through these test series, the civil service aspirant can test his/her knowledge and understand where he/she is lacking and improve that area. It is the best way for mentors to assess your knowledge and understand your weak points. They can help you to overcome them based on the test series analysis. The test series helps the students in time management. Test series for Mains exams helps the aspirants to improve their writing skills. As the aspirants practice more and more, it will help them to improve the content and bring structure to the answer writing. Test series for Prelims and Mains give a detailed analysis of your performance, where you stand in terms of preparation. It helps the students to approach the exams without stressing out too much. The next question everyone in has mind isWhen is the best time to start the test series for UPSC? Test series for Prelims and Mains are the best techniques for preparing for UPSC exams. It is advisable to join a test series for prelims at least 6 months before the exam. The more you practice, the more it will help you to boost your confidence. You can analyze where you are making mistakes and can rectify those mistakes. You can join the test series for mains right after the prelims exams. There are many prelims and mains test series available for Civil service aspirants. Civils360 offers the best test series for Prelims and Mains in Trivandrum, Kerala. But what makes the Civils360’s test series unique from the rest? The test series provided by Civils360 is resource-rich that reflects the UPSC standards. They provide one-on-one mentoring sessions to students for maintaining discipline in answer writing and time management. Civils360’s test series for Mains equip you to handle the 3-hour exam with ease with special emphasis on presentation and selective content. To know more about the Civils360’s Prelims and Mains test series, Please contact 8138000360 or fill the form below. Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. Join now
Best Books for UPSC Preparation
Best Books for UPSC IAS Prelims & Mains Civil Service is one of the most difficult competitive examinations in India. Therefore, you will need to dedicate yourself to studying to achieve your goals. Preparing for the Civil Service Examination is a tough task. You have to read, analyze and understand the current affairs, NCERT textbooks, and books related to the UPSC syllabus. The main issue UPSC aspirants face is that there are a lot of books available in the market for UPSC civil service prelims & mains exam preparation. Most of the students are confused regarding where to start and which is the right book for UPSC preparation. Let’s just make it easy for you. Here is the subject-wise UPSC book list for preparing for Civil Service Prelims & Mains. UPSC Books for History, Art & Culture These books are extremely helpful to cover the syllabus of Indian history, Heritage, Art and Culture for the UPSC prelims exam and also the General Studies Paper I. NCERT 6-12 History Textbook A Brief History of Modern India by Spectrum Publications India’s Struggle for Independence – Bipan Chandra (for extra reading) Indian Art & Culture by Nitin Singhania NCERT Class 11 Introduction to Fine Arts NCERT 6-12 History Textbook A Brief History of Modern India by Spectrum Publications India’s Struggle for Independence – Bipan Chandra (for extra reading) Indian Art & Culture by Nitin Singhania NCERT Class 11 Introduction to Fine Arts UPSC Books for Economics To cover the syllabus of Economics, most UPSC toppers recommend Indian Economy either by Sankar Ganesh or Ramesh Singh. NCERT books and Economic survey of the respective year helps you to understand Indian economics better and mobilization of resources, growth, development, and important policies and their effects on the growth and development of the country. Indian Economy by Sankar Ganesh NCERT Class 11: Macro Economics Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh Economic Survey of India Document of respective Year UPSC books for Geography Certificate Physical & Human Geography by GC Leong is one of the most recommended books for studying geography for UPSC prelims and Mains optional. To focus more on Indian geography, you can use NCERT Class 6-12 Geography textbooks. For extra reference, you can also use NCERT Class 6-12 Geography textbooks Certificate Physical & Human Geography by GC Leong Geography of India by Majid Husain UPSC Books for Indian Polity & Governance Indian Polity is the most popular book on Indian Polity. However, it is recommended that you finish your NCERT textbooks first before starting Indian Polity. Indian Polity by Laxmikant NCERT Class 9: Democratic Politics 1 NCERT Class 10 Democratic Politics 2 NCERT Class 11: Constitution at Work NCERT Class 11: Political Theory UPSC Books for Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude This is the most recommended book that helps the UPSC aspirants to understand the issues relating to integrity, ethics and its importance in the life of a civil servant. A Practical Approach to Ethics Integrity and Aptitude by DK BALAJI IAS Civils360’s Social Justice & Internal Security Social Justice & Internal Security’ is a complete self-study guide designed for UPSC aspirants. The book covers the latest syllabus for the second and third General studies papers (GS Paper II – Social Justice and GS Paper III – Internal Security). This book will help UPSC aspirants cover the major topics for UPSC mains GS II and III exams. Civils360’s International Relations This book contains carefully curated notes aimed to help the UPSC aspirants prepare for the Civil Service exam. It is a must recommended book that covers the entire syllabus of GS Paper-II. It is always better to start your UPSC preparation with the NCERT textbooks. Other than this book list, you can use a standard newspaper like The Hindu for a daily dose of current affairs. Magazines like Yojana, the Economic and Political Weekly, Down To Earth cover various topics relevant to UPSC exams like politics, economics, sociology, culture, environment, government schemes, policies, etc. To know more about Civil service exam preparation and a detailed book list, please contact us or fill the form below. Enroll today with the best civils service academy and take your first step towards your Civils journey. Feel free to reach out to us for any inquiries, collaborations, or support. We’re here to help. Join now
India’s Foreign Policy
India’s Foreign Policy – Determinants India’s foreign policy is shaped by five broad factors viz. geography; Ideology; National Interests Historical Factors, National events, Global Events, Culture. Indian Foreign Policy Evolution Foreign policy of any country, unlike domestic policy, is usually considered to be staid and stable, not subject to revolutionary change. Foreign policy is both static and dynamic. Pre-Independence Era Throughout ancient and medieval times, we had cordial relationships with the globe’s people. Throughout pre-colonial history, India’s flourishing empires also made significant cultural and academic developments. With the establishment of British colonialism in India, its external relation particularly with neighbouring countries was mainly shaped by colonial motives. Foreign Policy of Independent India: ERA OF OPTIMISTIC NONALIGNMENT (1947-62) Creation of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) when the nations met in Belgrade Serbia in 1961. Non-alignment is not a policy of nonintervention or neutrality as it is commonly misunderstood. It was a policy of not joining either of the cold war camps: The Western World or the USSR led Warsaw Pact It meant providing issue based support to these nations on which the nations belonging to the NAM could benefit from: This phase to be one that involved idealism in foreign policy. This period soon ended when the Chinese handed over a humiliating defeat to the Indians in the Sino-Indian war of 1962. India was rudely shaken up after this event. ERA OF REALISM AND DISCOVERY (1962-70) During this phase, it continued leading the NAM grouping and embraced Afro-Asian solidarity. Pakistan and China also united and further attempted to weaken India. The relations with the US too deteriorated after the tenure of President John F Kennedy. The US insisted that India join the US and become a part of the cold war politics. India steadfastly refused and the US denied India food aid. The economic situation too suffered with stagnant agriculture. It was under these circumstances that the Green Revolution was launched. Massive inflation eroded the confidence in the Indian rupee and overall, these eight years which saw three Prime Ministers was an era where realism returned and India began to discover its friends and foes. ERA OF REGIONAL ASSERTION (1971- 1991) The next 20 years saw India emerging as a regional power within South Asia. It began with the victory against Pakistan in the 1971 war wherein Bangladesh was created out of East Pakistan. India also asserted its regional influence in the Tamil civil war in Sri Lanka Relation with Pakistan and China began to improve during Rajiv Gandhi Tenure India emerged as a regional power in the conduct of its diplomacy. QUEST FOR STRATEGIC AUTONOMY (1991- 1999) The collapse of the USSR in 1991 dealt a huge blow to the aspirations of the Indian foreign policy. The USSR acted as a guiding force of India from the 1960’s and their collapse, once again brought forth the quest for strategic autonomy. However, amidst all these developments, it was important for India to maintain its strategic autonomy. Despite massive international pressure, the government headed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee conducted the Pokhran nuclear tests in 1998. Strategic autonomy denotes the ability of a state to pursue its national interests and adopt its preferred foreign policy without being constrained in any manner by other states. BALANCING POWER (2000-2013) The 21st century began with the signing of the Indo-Russia Special and Privileged Relationship Treaty 2000. The visit of the US President George W Bush in 2006 which led to the signing of the Indo-US Nuclear deal truly signalled the beginning of a strategic partnership with the US. Relationships with China improved whereas Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN became closer to India. ENERGETIC DIPLOMACY (2014-PRESENT) Indian foreign policy is becoming assertive and India is no more a nation that is dependent on external powers for its development. This is an India that is Aatmanirbhar but also at the same time, it embraces globalization and is standing up to bullies in the region (China), standing shoulder to shoulder with the global powers, and is on the verge of ascendancy. Principles and Doctrines of India Panchsheel Principle The guiding principles of India’s Foreign Policy have been founded on Panchsheel, pragmatism and pursuit of national interest. The five principles of peaceful coexistence or Panchsheel was evolved during talks between India and the People’s Republic of China in 1954. The five principles which formed the basis of the non aligned movement were laid down by Jawaharlal Nehru. The Five Principles are: Mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty Mutual non-aggression against anyone Mutual non-interference in each other’s internal affair Equality and mutual benefit Peaceful co-existence Gujral Doctrine The Gujral Doctrine is a set of five principles to guide the conduct of foreign relations with India’s immediate neighbours. These five principles arise from the belief that India’s stature and strength cannot be isolated from the quality of its relations with its neighbours. It, thus, recognises the supreme importance of friendly, cordial relations with neighbours. It helped in the formation of Neighbourhood First Policy These principles are: With neighbours like Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka, India does not ask for reciprocity but gives and accommodates what it can in good faith and trust. No South Asian country should allow its territory to be used against the interest of another country of the region. No country should interfere in the internal affairs of another. All South Asian countries must reach each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. They should settle all their disputes through peaceful bilateral negotiations. SAGAR Vision In 2015, India unveiled it’s strategic vision for the Indian Ocean i.e. Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). It is an increasing recognition of the increasing importance of maritime security, maritime commons and cooperation. Through SAGAR, India seeks to deepen economic and security cooperation with its maritime neighbours and assist in building their maritime security capabilities. For this, India would cooperate on the exchange of information, coastal surveillance, building of infrastructure and strengthening their capabilities. Further, India seeks to safeguard its national interests and ensure the Indian Ocean region to become inclusive, and collaborative and respects international law. Act East Policy The ‘Act East Policy’ announced in November 2014 is the upgrade of the “Look East Policy”. It is
India-Bangladesh Relation
India-Bangladesh Relation India shares the longest international border with Bangladesh. The length of the India-Bangladesh Border is 4,096.7 Kms. There also exists a maritime boundary between the two nations. Bangladesh also became a gateway into India’s North-Eastern states. Two Major Issues with regard to Bangladesh is lllegal migration from Bangladesh to India including smuggling and human trafficking Movement of several insurgents belonging to the North-Eastern insurgent groups and other Islamic terrorists who have used this region to inflict damages on India The location of Bangladesh also empowers it to play a critical role in the affairs of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and the Bangladeshi Navy has a critical role to play in ensuring that sea lanes of communications are free of pirates and others who threaten maritime commerce. Historical Relation: Bangladesh was part of British India and became part of Pakistan after the Partition of 1947. The elections of 1971 resulted in the victory of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman of the Awami League. He was not permitted to take over and form the government by those powers in West Pakistan. When the people of East Pakistan protested, they were brutally killed and women were raped by the Pakistani Army soldiers India was forced to intervene in this stage and support the people of Bangladesh. Their dreams were realized on December 16, 1971 when over 93,000 soldiers of the Pakistan Army surrendered to the Indian Army in Bangladesh and finally Bangladesh became an independent nation. India and Bangladesh CooperationEconomic Bangladesh is India’s biggest trade partner in South Asia and India is the second biggest trade partner of Bangladesh. Bilateral trade between India and Bangladesh has grown steadily over the last decade and the exports of Bangladesh have tripled over the last decade to cross $1 bn in 2018-19. In the FY 2019-20, India’s exports to Bangladesh were $8.2 bn and imports were $1.26 bn. There is a trade imbalance in favour of India. To rectify this, Indian companies have invested in Bangladesh’s telecommunication, tourism, energy and other infrastructural sectors. For the year 2019, India has invested over USD 500 Million Considering the border regions and its socio-economic developments, the two nations have operationalized two Border Haats each in the states of Tripura and Meghalaya Connectivity Projects The connectivity programs of India in Bangladesh primarily have an objective of connecting the North-Eastern States. Following are some of the important projects and links: Akhaura- Agartala railway link project Dhaka-Kolkata- Agartala bus and train service (Maitree express) Kulaura- Shahbazpur railway link project Akhaura-Ashuganj road development project The two nations are also part of the Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal (BBIN) project. This project is expected to improve the connectivity and boost trade in the South Asian region by more than 60%. Both sides also signed MOU’s on the use of the Chhotogram and Mongla ports. Energy Cooperation: India exports over 660 MW of electricity to Bangladesh every year India has constructed the Maitree Super Thermal Power Project which generates over 1320 MW of energy. With the assistance of the Russian, India is playing a crucial role in the construction of the Rooppur Nuclear Power plant which has a potential to generate 2400 MW. the two nations are presently working on the construction of the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline between Siliguri- Parbatipur and this is expected to carry around 400,000 tons of diesel to Bangladesh annually. UPSC Mains Answer Writing Practice Defence Cooperation: High level exchanges in the year 2020 include the second edition of India-Bangladesh CORPAT ‘Bangosagar’ exercise on 03-05 October 2020, Regional Commanders meeting of Coast Guards on 19 October 2020. The Joint Exercises between the two Armies is called ‘Sampriti’ and the Bangladeshi navy also participates in the Milan Exercises conducted by the Indian Navy. India also provides services to Bangladesh through the SAARC Satellite. A MOU on Coastal surveillance systems is signed between two. Pakistan state sponsored terrorism is a cause for concern for both the nations. There is a scope for further cooperation in terms of de-radicalization of masses from both the nations. One major area where the two nations lack strong cooperation is in the field of disaster management. Cyclones in the Bay of Bengal affect both the nations. Cultural Relations: Bengali poets Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazirul Islam are popular in each other’s nations The ‘National Digital Knowledge Network’ of India has now been extended to Bangladesh. Recent Developments in the Relations: Land Boundary Agreement: has been completed by both countries transferring enclaves in other country. This has resolved the major issue between the countries. Issue of Teesta River: River water disputes between India and Bangladesh is still pending. A Joint commission has been formed to resolve these issues. The people have supported their Government’s efforts in cracking down Islamic terrorism. Radicalization attempts by ISIS are posing a challenge to the nation. Challenges in the Relation: China factor: China is financing over 25 energy projects, Bangladesh’s second nuclear power project and the Bangabandhu communication satellite. Many port development projects too are being executed. China has also trapped Bangladesh in its One Belt One Road project and China’s close presence to India raises certain security concerns. Problem of Rohingya refugees: Bangladesh hosts over 11 lakh Rohingya refugees. The crisis in Myanmar has triggered their exodus. India shares good relations with both Myanmar and Bangladesh and didn’t want to upset its ties with the former. Hence, apart from executing ‘Operation Insaniyat’ which is a humanitarian relief operation, India has not played an active role in terms of mitigating this crisis. This has led to considerable difference between the two nations. Security in the border regions: In recent times, the Border Security Force (BSF) has cracked down on smugglers and illegal migrants from Bangladesh and shot them down. This has triggered a public crisis in Bangladesh. Bangladesh Rifles, the force that guards the border on their side has shot down Indian troops belonging to the BSF without any provocation. Many analysts have attributed this recent religious indoctrination and the influence of the notorious ISI on the Bangladeshi
India – China Relations
India – China Relations China and India are both ancient civilisations and major developing countries. As the only two major developing countries and important representatives of emerging economies, China-India relations assume global and strategic significance. India-China Relation – Background In 1950, India became the first non-socialist bloc country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. The two countries also jointly expounded the Panchsheel (Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence) in 1954. Though the border conflict in 1962 was a serious setback to bilateral ties, India and China restored ambassadorial relations in August 1976. Indian PM Rajiv Gandhi’s landmark visit in 1988 marked the beginning of improvement in bilateral relations. In 1993, the signing of an Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control on the India-China Border Areas reflected the growing stability in bilateral ties. Signed the Declaration on Principles for Relations and Comprehensive Cooperation in 2003 and mutually decided to appoint Special Representatives (SRs) to explore the framework of a boundary settlement. In 2005, the two sides established a Strategic and Cooperative Partnership for Peace and Prosperity. India-China bilateral relations have expanded and become diversified in the past decade In 2014, the two sides redefined the bilateral engagement as Closer Developmental Partnership. 2020 marked the year of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and India Both the countries have similar attributes and problems including large population, huge rural-urban divide, rising economy and conflict with neighbours. India and China have established several dialogue mechanisms at various levels, covering bilateral political, economic, cultural, people-to-people, consular matters as well as dialogues on regional and global issues. However, India-China relationship is dotted with “competition, cooperation, and discord”. In the past few years, these played out in incidents like India’s critique of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), India’s entry into the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), the dramatic crisis in Doklam & Galwan Valley, the acceleration of multilateral cooperation in the BRICS and attempts to foster economic engagement. Areas of Cooperation Political and Diplomatic relations – 20 Inter-parliamentary friendship groups have been set up by China and India. There are 50 dialogue mechanisms between China and India for exchanging views on various topics of bilateral, regional, and global concern. Economy and Trade – Since the beginning of the 21st century, trade between China and India has grown from less than $3 billion to nearly $100 billion, an increase of about 32 times. China is India’s largest goods trading partner, whereas India is the 12th largest trading partner of China. Investment & Banking – Seven Indian Banks have opened branches in China. Chinese bank and ICBC have opened branches in India. E-business visa – has been introduced in 2017 to encourage more number of business persons from China travelling to India Science & Technology – Both nations have held Joint Research workshops on Science and Technology Innovation Indian companies have set up IT corridors in China, which help promote China-India cooperation in information technology and high technology Defense – ‘Hand-in-Hand’ joint anti-terrorist exercises are held to enhance mutual understanding and trust, exchange training experiences and jointly improve anti-terrorism capabilities. China-India defense and security consultation to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in the defense field. People-to-People Exchanges – Both nations have held meetings of China-India High-Level People-to-People and Cultural Exchanges Mechanism. The two countries have established pairs of sister cities and provinces. For example, sister provinces and cities between Fujian Province & Tamil Nadu State, Quanzhou City & Chennai City. Education relations – India and China signed the Education Exchange Programme (EEP) in 2006, which is an umbrella agreement for educational cooperation, providing scholarships for students. Areas of Contention Chinese Initiatives – India is suspicious about several Chinese initiatives like: Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) – India boycotted BRI on issues of sovereignty (as China-Pakistan-Economic-Corridor – part of BRI, passes through Pakistan Occupied Kashmir) and other concerns over transparency, debt burden issues. Increasing presence in Indian Ocean (String of Pearls) – Chinese policy of building ports and naval bases around India’s maritime reaches such as Cocos Island in Myanmar, Chittagong in Bangladesh, Hambantota (Sri Lanka), Marao Atoll (Maldives) and Gwadar (Pakistan) is seen as Chinese encirclement of India Border Dispute – The border between India and China is not clearly demarcated throughout and there is no mutually agreed Line of Actual Control (LAC). LAC is divided into three sectors, viz. Western, Middle and Eastern. Western Sector (Ladakh) – India uses Johnson Line and claims Aksai Chin as its own. China do not recognise it and instead accepts McDonald Line which puts Aksai Chin under its control. Middle Sector (Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand) – Here LAC is the least controversial except for the precise alignment to be followed in the Barahoti plains. India and China have exchanged maps on which they broadly agree Eastern Sector (Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim) – dispute is over the McMahon Line (in Arunachal Pradesh) decided in 1914 in a meeting of Representatives of China, India, and Tibet in Shimla. River Water Dispute – China has been building dams (Jiexu, Zangmu and Jiacha) in the upper reaches of the Brahmaputra which is called Tsangpo in Tibet. India has objected to it but there has been no formal treaty over sharing of the Brahmaputra water. Dalai Lama and Tibet issue – India supports a Tibetan government in exile formed by Dalai Lama which is unacceptable to China. Presence in South Asia – China has been increasing investments, enhancing trade with countries in South Asia challenging India’s traditional position in the neighbourhood. Trade imbalance – A trade deficit of $51 billion USD with China is a cause for concern for India because it signifies an inability to compete with Chinese manufactured goods. China’s protectionist policies – hinder the ability of Indian companies to enter Chinese markets. China’s Support to Pakistan – Through investments (e.g., CPEC), and supporting Pakistan on various issues like on Kashmir in UNSC, on terrorism, on NSG etc. has emboldened Pakistan to continue its policy of asymmetric warfare against India. Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) – China has been blocking India’s attempt to entry to NSG to build a case for Pakistan. Digital Security – The abrupt increase in Chinese investment in the Knowledge economy of India, that mostly involves the tech-start-ups, has raised the concerns related to privacy
India-Bhutan Relation
India-Bhutan Relation Diplomatic relations between India and Bhutan were established in 1968 with the establishment of a special office of India in Thimphu. The basic framework of India Bhutan bilateral relations is the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation signed in 1949 between the two countries and revised in February 2007. The Golden Jubilee of the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between India and Bhutan was celebrated in the year 2018. The 1949 treaty amongst others ensured that India will not interfere in the internal affairs of Bhutan and the latter will not import arms and ammunition (Article 2 of the Treaty). Bhutan also had to seek India’s guidance on matters related to its foreign policy. India and Bhutan share a unique and time tested bilateral relationship, characterized by utmost trust, goodwill and mutual understanding. The special relationship has been sustained by a tradition of regular high level visits and dialogues between the two countries. The Manas National Park (Assam) is an ecological asset shared between the two nations. Bhutan is a landlocked nation that is sandwiched between India and China. The Himalayan Mountains also forms many features in the country In February 2020, Bhutan decided to levy a ‘Sustainable Development Fee’ of USD 17/day on Indian tourists entering Bhutan and staying in the Western districts of the nation. This has raised certain questions on Bhutan’s step to discourage the arrival of Indian tourists. Areas of Cooperation:Economic Cooperation and Development Assistance: The Government of India has consistently supported the socio-economic development of Bhutan. Hydro-power cooperation between the two countries is an example of win-win cooperation. India has been extending economic assistance to Bhutan’s socio-economic development since the early 1960s when Bhutan launched its Five Year Plans. India continues to be the principal development partner of Bhutan. For the 12th Five Year Plan, India’s contribution of Rs. 4500 cr. will constitute 73% of Bhutan’s total external grant component. The key areas of focus of GOI’s assistance include agriculture and irrigation development, ICT, health, industrial development, road transport, energy, civil aviation, urban development, human resource development, capacity building, scholarship, education and culture. Mutually beneficial hydro-power cooperation with Bhutan forms the core of bilateral economic cooperation. For Bhutan, hydro-power development continues to be a vital catalyst for socio-economic development. The ongoing cooperation between India and Bhutan in the hydro-power sector is covered under the 2006 bilateral agreement for cooperation and its Protocol signed in 2009. Four hydro-electric projects (HEPs) totaling 2136 MW are already operational in Bhutan and are supplying electricity to India. The 720 MW Mangdechhu was commissioned in August 2019. Two HEPs namely, 1200 MW Punatsangchhu-I, 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II in Inter-Governmental mode and Kholongchhu HEP (600 MWs) under the joint venture mode are under various stages of implementation. In consultation with the Ministry of Power/DoE, the implementation formalities of the 2585 MW Sankosh HEP are currently being finalized. India is Bhutan’s largest trading partner. In 2018, total bilateral trade between the two countries stood at Rs. 9227.7 crores. Major exports from India to Bhutan are mineral products, machinery and mechanical appliances, electrical equipment, base metals, vehicles, vegetable products, plastics and articles. The major items of export from Bhutan to India are electricity, ferro-silicon, portland cement, dolomite, carbides of calcium carbides of silicon, cement clinkers, timber and wood products, potatoes, cardamom and fruit products. India is the most popular educational destination for Bhutanese students -almost 4000 Bhutanese students are enrolled in Indian Universities at any time, many of whom are also provided scholarships by Govt. of India. India-Bhutan Relation – Defence and Strategic Relations: There is a Secretary-level mechanism on border management and security related matters between the two countries. There is also a Border District Coordination Meeting (BDCM) Mechanism between the bordering States and the Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB) to facilitate coordination on border management and other related matters. Both India and Bhutan are founding members of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) that deals with economic, social and cultural development of South Asian Region. Both of them also share other multilateral forums such as BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal), BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) etc ‘Operation All Clear’ conducted in the year 2003-04 by Bhutan to root out insurgent groups from Assam such as United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA), National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) and the Kamtapur Liberation Organization (KLO). Over 30 militants’ camps were targeted and more than 650 terrorists were killed. The China factor is an important facet of the strategic cooperation between the two countries. In 2017, there was a dispute in the Doklam plateau which is situated in the tri-junction between India (state of Sikkim), Bhutan and China. India warded off Chinese threats and the issue was settled temporarily. In 2020, the Sakteng WildLife sanctuary in Bhutan situated close to the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh was in news. During a meeting of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) (a US based financing body for environmental projects), China objected to the project funding in the Sakteng WildLife sanctuary in the Eastern part of Bhutan. But the objections were overruled. These areas which are close to the trijunction of India, Bhutan and China will be a cause for concern for India. India will be closely watching these developments. India is most vulnerable in the Siliguri corridor. This is also called India’s chicken neck. (In the event of a war between India and China, it is a belief that China can seize this corridor and cut off access between India’s mainland and NorthEast regions). Bhutan remains the only neighbouring nation of India which neither has diplomatic relations with China nor it is part of its One Belt One Road (OBOR) project. Cultural Relations : A large number of college going Bhutanese students study in India. The Government of India provides a number of scholarships to Bhutanese students. Regular cultural exchanges take place between the two countries. One of the basic objectives of India Bhutan Foundation established in 2003 is to enhance people to people exchange in cultural field. About 60,000 Indian nationals live in Bhutan, employed mostly in the hydro-electric power construction and road industry. In addition, around 8000-10,000 daily workers enter and exit Bhutan everyday in border towns. Bhutan’s Significance to IndiaGeographical Significance: Bhutan shares a border with four Indian States: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal and Sikkim. Nestled in the Himalayas,
