Question 19GS2GS2
India's 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 Indian Ocean region? (Answer in 250 words)
Main Body
Neighbourhood like India must see its growth trajectory as a lifting tide for entire region by greater investment of time and resources, a policy adopted by Neighbourhood First - S.Jaishankar. Impact of bilateral Indian aid on bilateral ties: (1) Soft power diplomacy and build good will as against China's debt trap diplomacy. $1 billion aid to Sri Lanka from 2022 onwards during economic crisis. (2) Strategic balancing against IndiaCurrency swap with Maldive prevent it from going into China's sphere of influence.
3rebuild strained ties - shows strategic patience → dispute provocation from Maldives continued with infra-structure projects like Greater Male Connectivity. Now Maldives have signed comprehensive economic and maritime partnership agreement. (4) secure India's interest in the region → restocking of debt of Sri Lanka helped nudge Sri Lanka to pay that it helped territory would not be utilized against India. (5) prevent spill over effect due to economic crisis in the region. But sometimes Indian Aid is seen as paternalism and anti-China sentiments (India cut in Maldives). The further steps needed :-
176 words1 paragraphs
Conclusion
(1) institutionalize economic engagement on the lines of India-EU trade and technology partnership. (2) revamp FTA to include services, labour mobility, technology transfer. (3) trade in domestic currency like currency swap, vector accounts. (4) ensure synchronization of digital payments like UPI etc. (5) expand ties to include blue and maritime energy, energy trade (5) multiproduct energy pipeline from Sri Lanka. (6) boost tourism by ease of capital flows. These measures can supplement efforts to ensure aim of SAGAR in Indian ocean region.
82 words
Topper
PAWAN KUMAR PANDEY
AIR 1382025
Subject & Paper
GS2GS2
Topic
India and its Neighborhood - Relations
India-Maldives Relations
India-Maldives Relations
Writing Stats
258
Total words
1
Paragraphs
analytical
Tone