AN

ADITYA NARAYAN HAIR 68

Question 19GS2GS2

India's timely response during the economic crises in Sri Lanka and the Maldives reflects its 'Neighbourhood First' policy in action. Examine how Indian aid has impacted bilateral ties with these nations. What steps can further be taken to promote sustainable economic cooperation in the region? (Answer in 250 words)

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Main Body

India's neighbourhood first policy favors on acting as first responder to crises in its neighborhood. India's external line of credit and support to stabilizing of Sri Lanka are examples of it.

Indian aid impacting bilateral after:

(A) Sri Lanka:

1Providing $2 billion of immediate line of credit during crisis.
2Resulted in gratitude from Sri Lankan President.
3Accepted India's opposition to larger aid to Sri Lanka.
4First visit of new Sri Lankan President was to India.
5Promised increased cooperation in trade, innovation of fishermen.

(B) Maldives:

1India as second largest trade partner of Maldives.
2Invited PM Modi to visit Maldives.
3Reiteration of Maldivian - India cooperation in Maldivian Parliament.
4Continued training of Maldivian defence forces by India.

However and has caused certain issues in the respective nations:

1Pointing at big brotherly attitude of India. (EF) India Out Campaign in Maldives.
2Chinese retaliation by standing larger aid to Sri Lanka.
3Poor comment made by official in Maldivian government on India (Clearsorted).

Steps to be further taken:

1Economic infrastructure building on IOR region with cooperation. (EF) Building installed Mattale airport operations.
2Meeting deadlines and timely completion of infra project. (EF) Completion ITT bilateral highways.
3Transparent and sustainable alternative to debt trap of China.
4Increasing trade with IOR nations through FTA/PTA agreements.

Hence India needs to be proactive in IOR to be a global leader of the region.

240 words2 paragraphs

Conclusion

Hence India needs to be proactive in IOR to be a global leader of the region.

16 words

Topper

ADITYA NARAYAN H

AIR 68

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

India and its Neighborhood - Relations

India-Maldives Relations

India-Maldives Relations

Writing Stats

256

Total words

2

Paragraphs