IGNOU BPSE-142 Solved Question Paper PDF Download

IGNOU BPSE-142 Previous Year Solved Question Paper in Hindi

IGNOU BPSE-142 Previous Year Solved Question Paper in English

Q1. What are the objectives of Indian Foreign Policy?

Ans. The objectives of Indian foreign policy are rooted in its historical experiences, geo-political realities, and national aspirations. Principles developed during the freedom struggle, such as anti-imperialism, anti-colonialism, and anti-racism, laid its foundation. As its chief initial architect, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru envisioned an independent and autonomous role for India through Non-Alignment and Panchsheel (the five principles of peaceful co-existence). Over time, these objectives have seen both continuity and change. The primary objectives of Indian foreign policy are as follows:

• Preservation of National Security: The foremost objective is to protect India’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. This includes defending borders from external aggression, combating cross-border terrorism, and ensuring a stable and peaceful neighbourhood.
• Promotion of Economic Prosperity: A crucial goal of India’s foreign policy is to create a favourable external environment for the country’s rapid economic development. This involves increasing foreign trade, attracting foreign investment and technology, ensuring energy security, and securing access to global markets for Indian businesses.
• A Justful Place in the World Order: India seeks recognition of its role as a major global power. A key aspect of this is the demand for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) . India aims to be a leading voice on global issues, especially representing the interests of the ‘Global South’ or developing nations.
• Protection of the Interests of the Indian Diaspora: A large Indian diaspora resides across the world. Protecting their safety, welfare, and interests has become an important objective of Indian foreign policy. The government actively engages with countries where the Indian diaspora lives.
• Peaceful and Stable Neighbourhood: Through its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, India aims to promote peace, stability, and cooperation in South Asia. A peaceful neighbourhood is considered essential for India’s own security and development.

In essence, Indian foreign policy is a blend of

idealism

and

realism

. While traditional principles like Non-Alignment have now evolved into

‘Strategic Autonomy’

and

‘Multi-alignment’

, the core objective—securing the national interest—remains constant.

Q2. Evaluate the India’s foreign policy towards its neighbours.

Ans. India’s foreign policy towards its neighbours, often articulated as the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, is exceedingly complex and multi-faceted. This policy is based on the belief that a peaceful, prosperous, and stable South Asia is vital for India’s own national interests. However, its implementation has been fraught with challenges like historical disputes, mistrust, power asymmetries, and the growing influence of China. Positive Aspects:

• Bangladesh: Relations have improved remarkably. The Land Boundary Agreement (2015) and the resolution of the maritime boundary dispute are major achievements. Trade, connectivity, and energy cooperation are on the rise, setting an example of a model bilateral relationship.
• Bhutan: India remains Bhutan’s most trusted ally. India plays a critical role in its security and economic development, especially through hydropower projects.
• Maldives and Sri Lanka: India has played the role of a first responder in times of crisis. The massive financial aid provided to Sri Lanka during its economic crisis and the support for the ‘India First’ policy in the Maldives are testaments to India being a responsible neighbour.
• Gujral Doctrine: Under this doctrine, India offered unilateral concessions to its smaller neighbours (except Pakistan) without insisting on reciprocity, which helped build goodwill.

Challenges and Negative Aspects:

• Pakistan: Relations remain consistently tense. The Kashmir dispute and cross-border terrorism sponsored by Pakistan are the primary hurdles. Post the Uri and Pulwama attacks, India has adopted a policy of “talks and terror cannot go together,” leading to minimal diplomatic engagement.
• China: China is India’s biggest strategic and security challenge. Border tensions, especially the incidents at Doklam (2017) and the Galwan Valley (2020) , have severely strained relations. China’s growing economic and strategic footprint in South Asia (e.g., CPEC, ports in Sri Lanka) is a major concern for India.
• Nepal: Although relations are deep and historical, they have been periodically strained by border disputes (Kalapani) and perceived Chinese interference in Nepal’s politics.

Evaluation:

India’s neighbourhood policy is a mix of goodwill and realpolitik. India has attempted to lead through economic aid, connectivity, and disaster relief. However, the hostile relationship with Pakistan and the looming presence of China limit its effectiveness. The policy’s success depends on how well India addresses the concerns of its neighbours while countering the strategic challenge posed by China.

Q3. Discuss bilateral framework of dispute settlement with suitable examples.

Ans. The bilateral framework of dispute settlement has been a central tenet of Indian foreign policy, especially in its relations with its neighbours. The core idea of this framework is that disputes between two countries should be resolved by those two countries alone through direct negotiations, without the intervention or mediation of any third party. India believes that third-party involvement often complicates matters further and undermines national sovereignty. The Rationale for Bilateralism:

• Preservation of Sovereignty: India maintains that bilateral talks allow nations to find solutions based on their own interests without external pressure.
• Deeper Understanding of the Dispute: It rests on the belief that the parties involved best understand the historical and emotional complexities of the dispute.
• Durable Solutions: An agreement reached through direct negotiation is more likely to be sustainable and acceptable to both sides.

Suitable Examples:

1. The Shimla Agreement (1972): This is the most outstanding example of India’s policy of bilateralism. Signed between India and Pakistan after the 1971 war, the agreement explicitly states that the two countries “are resolved to settle their differences by peaceful means through bilateral negotiations.” On this basis, India has consistently rejected any third-party mediation on the Kashmir issue, whether from the UN or any other country.
2. India-Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement (2015): This is a major success story of bilateral diplomacy. The decades-old, complex issue of enclaves was successfully resolved through long-drawn-out bilateral negotiations. The agreement not only settled an old dispute but also strengthened trust and cooperation between the two nations.
3. Indo-Sri Lanka Accord (1987): This accord was a bilateral attempt to resolve the Tamil ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka. Although its outcomes were mixed and it was not entirely successful, it reflects India’s approach that regional problems should be solved bilaterally by regional powers.

Challenges:

The bilateral framework has its limitations. It becomes ineffective when one party is unwilling to negotiate in good faith, as seen in the case of India-Pakistan on the issue of terrorism. Furthermore, with a powerful country like China, where the power balance is highly asymmetric, bilateral talks do not always yield the desired results, as is evident in the border dispute.

In conclusion, bilateralism remains the bedrock of India’s dispute resolution strategy. It has delivered some significant successes, but its effectiveness depends heavily on the willingness of both parties to engage constructively.

Q4. Write short notes on the following in about 200 words each: (a) Non-proliferation treaty (b) India’s role at UN

Ans. (a) Non-proliferation treaty (NPT) The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, commonly known as the NPT, is a landmark international treaty signed in 1968 and enforced in 1970. Its objective is to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology, to promote co-operation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and to further the goal of achieving nuclear disarmament. The NPT has three main pillars: non-proliferation, disarmament, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy . It establishes a distinction between nuclear-weapon states (those that tested before 1 January 1967 – US, Russia, UK, France, China) and non-nuclear-weapon states. India has consistently refused to sign the NPT, calling it “discriminatory.” India argues that the treaty legitimizes the possession of nuclear weapons for a select few while denying the same right to all other nations, thus creating a form of ‘nuclear apartheid’. India believes the treaty focuses only on horizontal proliferation (preventing new countries from acquiring weapons) and not on vertical proliferation (the enhancement of arsenals by existing nuclear powers). India instead advocates for a universal, non-discriminatory, and verifiable nuclear disarmament treaty. (b) India’s role at UN India was a founding member of the United Nations (UN) and has played a significant and constructive role within the organization since its inception. India’s role has been multi-faceted, based on the principles of peace, security, and development. Key contributions include:

• Peacekeeping: India has been one of the largest and most consistent troop contributors to UN peacekeeping missions. Indian soldiers have served in conflict-ridden areas across the globe.
• Anti-Colonialism and Anti-Apartheid: India led the global movement against colonialism and apartheid on the UN platform. It was the first country to raise the issue of racial discrimination in South Africa.
• Development Agenda: India has played a leading role in advocating for the interests of developing countries (the ‘Global South’). It actively participates in shaping the global development agenda, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• UNSC Reforms: India is a prime contender for a permanent seat in a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC) . As part of the G4 nations (Brazil, Germany, India, Japan), India argues that the UNSC must reflect contemporary global realities.

Overall, India’s role has been that of a responsible global stakeholder, a voice for the developing world, and a major contributor to global peace and security.

Q5. Comment on the changing aspects of Indo-US relations.

Ans. From “estranged democracies” during the Cold War to “strategic partners” today, Indo-US relations have undergone a remarkable transformation. This shift has been driven by shared democratic values, growing economic ties, and, most importantly, changing geopolitical realities, particularly the rise of China. The Cold War Era (1947-1991): This period was characterized by mistrust and divergence. India’s policy of non-alignment and its proximity to the Soviet Union were viewed with suspicion in Washington, while the US alliance with Pakistan was a major concern for India. The Period of Transition (1990s – 2000s): The collapse of the Soviet Union and India’s economic liberalization initiated a thaw in relations. However, India’s 1998 nuclear tests led to US sanctions, causing a temporary setback. The real turnaround began in the early 2000s, spurred by shared concerns over terrorism post-9/11 and a growing awareness of China’s rising influence. The Era of Strategic Partnership (2008-Present):

• Indo-US Civil Nuclear Deal (2008): This was a landmark agreement that ended India’s nuclear isolation and recognized it as a responsible nuclear power. It heralded a new era in bilateral ties.
• Defence and Security Cooperation: The US has become a major defence supplier to India. The signing of foundational agreements like LEMOA, COMCASA, and BECA has enhanced interoperability between the two militaries.
• Indo-Pacific Strategy and the Quad: India is a key pillar of the US’s Indo-Pacific strategy. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) , which also includes Australia and Japan, has emerged as a crucial platform to balance China’s influence in the region.
• Economic and Diaspora Ties: Trade and investment between the two countries have boomed. The influential Indian-American diaspora acts as a strong bridge between the two nations.

Challenges:

Despite these positive developments, differences remain on issues like trade tariffs, intellectual property rights, and India’s relations with Russia and Iran. India remains cautious about maintaining its

strategic autonomy

and avoiding being drawn completely into any single camp.

In conclusion, the Indo-US relationship has transformed into a comprehensive strategic partnership based on converging interests, especially in maintaining a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific. It is now one of the most important pillars of India’s foreign policy.

Q6. Discuss India-Pakistan relations.

Ans. India-Pakistan relations have been plagued by conflict, mistrust, and hostility ever since the partition of British India in 1947. In over seven decades, the relationship has oscillated between brief periods of hope for peace and long stretches of tension, making it one of the most complex and volatile bilateral relationships in the world. Core Issues of Conflict:

• The Kashmir Dispute: This has been the central and most emotive issue of conflict between the two nations. The two countries have fought three wars (1947-48, 1965, 1999) over the region, and it remains the primary source of tension today.
• Cross-Border Terrorism: India has consistently accused Pakistan of sponsoring terrorism as an instrument of its foreign policy. Major terrorist attacks like the 2008 Mumbai attacks , Pathankot (2016), Uri (2016), and Pulwama (2019) have severely damaged relations.
• Other Disputes: Other issues such as the Siachen Glacier, Sir Creek, and water-sharing also contribute to tensions.

Phases in the Relationship:

1. Wars and Conflicts: The two countries have fought four major wars – 1947, 1965, 1971 (which led to the creation of Bangladesh), and 1999 (the Kargil conflict). Besides these, there are frequent ceasefire violations and skirmishes along the Line of Control (LoC).
2. Peace Efforts and Dialogue: There have also been periodic serious attempts to establish peace. The Shimla Agreement (1972) , the Lahore Declaration (1999) , and the Agra Summit (2001) were such efforts. However, these initiatives have often been derailed by terrorist attacks or political instability.
3. Current Status (Post-2016): After the Uri attack, India adopted a tougher policy, stating that “terror and talks cannot go together.” India demonstrated a more muscular response by conducting “surgical strikes” in 2016 and the “Balakot airstrikes” in 2019 in response to the Pulwama attack. After India’s abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Pakistan further downgraded diplomatic ties and suspended trade.

Conclusion:

Currently, India-Pakistan relations are in a deep stalemate. Formal dialogue between the two countries is suspended. Although a ceasefire on the LoC was renewed in 2021 and has largely held, the deep-seated differences over terrorism and Kashmir make the prospect of any sustainable peace process highly unlikely in the near future. The relationship remains a perennial challenge to the stability of South Asia.

Q7. Analyse India’s relations with West Asian countries.

Ans. India’s relations with West Asia, also known as the Middle East, are historically deep and civilizational. In recent decades, the region’s importance in Indian foreign policy has grown dramatically. India’s policy has evolved from an idealistic, pro-Palestine stance to a highly pragmatic and ‘de-hyphenated’ approach, where India independently maintains strong relations with rival countries in the region. Key Pillars of India’s Policy:

• Energy Security: West Asia is the primary source of India’s crude oil and natural gas. Stability in this region is critical for India’s energy supplies and economic growth.
• Indian Diaspora: Millions of Indians work in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. They remit billions of dollars annually, which is a significant part of the Indian economy. The welfare of this diaspora is a key priority for the Indian government.
• Trade and Investment: The GCC countries are major trading partners for India. Recently, investments from countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia into India have increased significantly. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the UAE is an example of this growing economic engagement.
• Security and Counter-Terrorism: Shared concerns over terrorism, piracy, and radicalism have strengthened security cooperation between India and West Asian nations, particularly the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Israel. This includes intelligence sharing and joint military exercises.

Analysis of the De-hyphenation Policy:

India’s biggest success has been its ‘de-hyphenation’ policy.

• Israel-Palestine: India now maintains a robust strategic partnership with Israel (in defence, agriculture, technology) while continuing to traditionally support the Palestinian cause.
• Saudi Arabia-Iran: India has cultivated excellent relations with both Shia-majority Iran and Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia , who are arch-rivals. India is developing the Chabahar Port in Iran while deepening its strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Conclusion:

India’s West Asia policy has demonstrated remarkable maturity and pragmatism. By adding security and strategic partnership to the traditional pillars of energy, trade, and diaspora welfare, India has successfully navigated the region’s complex geopolitics. India is no longer a passive observer but an active and important stakeholder in the region.

Q8. Write short notes on the following in about 200 words each: (a) National Security Agency (b) Act East Policy

Ans. (a) National Security Agency In the Indian context, the National Security Agency refers to the office of the National Security Council (NSC) and its chief executive, the National Security Advisor (NSA) . It was created in 1998 to provide an integrated, top-level body to advise the Prime Minister on all matters relating to national and international security. The NSA is the principal security advisor to the Prime Minister, and the position is extremely powerful and influential. The key responsibilities of the NSA include:

• Coordinating and analysing intelligence inputs from agencies like the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB).
• Chairing the meetings of the National Security Council and providing strategic direction to the government on security matters.
• Acting as the Prime Minister’s special envoy in sensitive diplomatic negotiations, such as the border talks with China or counter-terrorism dialogues with other countries.

The office of the NSA has become a central pivot in India’s security and foreign policy decision-making apparatus. It helps in swift decision-making and ensures high-level intervention by bypassing traditional bureaucratic hurdles, making it a critical part of India’s strategic thinking.

(b) Act East Policy

The Act East Policy, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014, is an upgraded and more proactive version of India’s

‘Look East Policy’ (early 1990s)

. While ‘Look East’ focused primarily on economic engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the ‘Act East’ policy has a much wider scope, both geographically and functionally.

The policy aims to move beyond just economic cooperation to include a more comprehensive agenda, often described by the

‘4 C’s’

:

1. Culture: Strengthening historical and cultural ties.
2. Commerce: Boosting trade and investment.
3. Connectivity: Enhancing physical (e.g., India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway), digital, and people-to-people connectivity.
4. Capacity Building: Cooperation in areas of defence, security, and development.

‘Act East’ also has a significant strategic dimension, focused on balancing China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The policy extends beyond ASEAN to include major East Asian countries like

Japan, South Korea, Australia,

and the

United States

in the Pacific. It is an integral part of India’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy, pursued through platforms like the Quad.