India’s Advocacy for Security Council Overhaul: G4 Model
Context: Participating in the Intergovernmental Negotiations on Security Council Reform, India has presented a detailed model on behalf of the G4 (Brazil, Germany, India and Japan) nations for United Nations Security Council Reform. Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Key Features of the G4 Proposed Model for UN Security Council Reform Representation […]
Debunking Claims of Fiscal Discrimination
Context: Several states, particularly those governed by opposition parties, particularly in southern India, have raised concerns about what they perceive as “discrimination” and “unfair” treatment in the current framework for sharing financial resources between the Union Government and the States. Relevance: GS2- Mains Question: The arguments raised by several states about discriminatory treatment in the […]
Changing Contours of International Relations
Context: In today’s global landscape, we are confronted with a multitude of challenges, spanning from geopolitical tensions such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict to the pervasive threat of transnational terrorism, and the assertive global ambitions of China. Amidst these pressing issues, environmental concerns have risen to the forefront of international politics. Relevance: GS2- International Relations Mains Question: In […]
Ties that Epitomise India’s Neighbourhood First Policy
Context: Throughout history, people have marveled at the close relationship between Bhutan, a nation spanning 38,394 square kilometers with a population of 770,000, and its much larger neighbor, India, covering 3.28 million square kilometers with a population of 1.4 billion. The explanation for this enduring friendship is rather straightforward. Both countries view each other as equals, treating […]
Key Highlights of the India-Bhutan Bilateral Talks
Context: Recently, Bhutan’s Prime Minister visited India, where both countries engaged in extensive discussions and signed multiple agreements. The close and cordial relationship between India and Bhutan, built on trust, goodwill, and shared values, is evident across various levels of engagement. This enduring friendship serves as a cornerstone for mutual prosperity and regional stability in […]
All Eyes are on the Indian Ocean Region
Context: While the Indian government’s primary focus from January 2021 centered on the Indo-Pacific region, with a concerted effort to bolster the Quad alliance, policy emphasis has reverted to the Indian Ocean since October 2023. Although the Indo-Pacific strategy encompasses both the Pacific and Indian Oceans, during times of heightened peril, the immediate neighborhood assumes […]
India-EFTA Trade Deal Set for Conclusion
Context: India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) recently concluded the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA). Initially, India objected to including “data exclusivity” clauses, which would have hindered Indian pharmaceutical companies from manufacturing generic drugs. However, after negotiations, both parties agreed to exclude “sensitive” agricultural products and gold imports from the agreement, marking […]
Indians Trapped in Russia-Ukraine War
Context: The deaths of two Indian nationals in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war shed light on the plight of numerous Indians trapped on the front lines after being deceived into working with the Russian military. Recent raids by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have uncovered a human trafficking network involved in recruiting Indians for roles […]
India Abstains from UN Vote on Islamophobia Resolution
Context: India abstained from voting on a UN General Assembly resolution addressing Islamophobia, citing concerns over the broader issue of “religiophobia” targeting Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and other faiths. The resolution, introduced by Pakistan and co-sponsored by China on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, prompted India’s abstention from the vote. Relevance: GS II: International Relations […]
Government of India and Asian Development Bank
Context: The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a USD 23 million loan agreement to enhance access to quality fintech education, research, and innovation at the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT-City). Relevance: GS II: International Relations Dimensions of the Article: Key Highlights: Establishment of International Fintech Institute (IFI): Focus Areas: […]