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: […]
Global Progress in Child Mortality
Context The United Nations Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation has unveiled a report titled “Levels and Trends in Child Mortality,” revealing significant strides in reducing global under-five deaths. According to the report, the annual number of under-five deaths worldwide in 2022 dropped by over half from the 2000 estimate, plummeting from 9.9 million to […]
India Mauritius Forge Strategic Ties
Context: The joint inauguration of projects supported by India in Agalega island of Mauritius highlights a growing concern to adapt and innovate strategic approaches. These endeavors aim not only to bolster economic and commercial ties but also to reinforce surveillance and security in the Indian Ocean Area. The virtual conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mauritian […]
About Yaoundé Declaration
Context: Ministers of Health from African countries with the highest burden of malaria recently signed the Yaounde Declaration with the objective of ending malaria deaths. Relevance: GS II: International Relations About Yaoundé Declaration: Participating Countries (70% of global malaria burden): Objectives: Pledges: Commitments: -Source: The Hindu