Syllabus
GS Paper 2 – India and its neighbourhood- relations.
Context
India must learn lessons from the changes in most of its neighbourhood
Source
The Hindu| Editorial dated 14th August 2024
The shock-effects of South Asian tumult
In recent years, South Asia has experienced significant political upheavals, affecting its stability and international relations. Countries such as the Maldives, Nepal, and Bangladesh have undergone notable political shifts that have reverberated across the region. India, as a major player in South Asia, has been significantly impacted by these changes.
Issues in Neighbouring Countries
Bangladesh
- The ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has created political uncertainty.
- Her departure has led to challenges in maintaining the strong relationship India had with her government.
- Hasina’s government had faced criticism for its authoritarian tendencies, which created internal discontent and contributed to the political upheaval.
Nepal
- Nepal has experienced political instability with the return of K.P. Sharma Oli, who is known for his less favourable stance towards India.
- Increased Chinese influence under Oli’s leadership has shifted Nepal’s foreign policy orientation away from India.
Maldives
- The electoral defeat of pro-India President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and the rise of Mohamed Muizzu, who is seen as less supportive of India, has altered the diplomatic landscape.
Pakistan
- Imran Khan’s removal from office in 2022 added to the ongoing political instability in Pakistan, impacting India-Pakistan relations.
- Terrorism and Border Issues: Continued issues with cross-border terrorism and strained diplomatic relations persist.
Sri Lanka
- Economic Crisis: The economic turmoil and riots in Sri Lanka led to the removal of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, highlighting the country’s internal struggles.
- Rebuilding Efforts: The political and economic crisis has impacted Sri Lanka’s ability to engage consistently with regional partners, including India.
Afghanistan
- Taliban Takeover: The Taliban’s takeover in 2021 has led to significant changes in the political and security environment, impacting India’s diplomatic and strategic interests.
- Humanitarian Concerns: The situation has created a humanitarian crisis and affected India’s approach to regional security.
Impact of These Changes on India
- Security Dynamics:
- Political changes in neighbouring countries impact regional security. For instance, instability in Pakistan and Afghanistan affects security along India’s borders.
- Illegal Migration: Political and economic instability in neighbouring countries, like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, has led to increased illegal migration into India.
- Challenges in Diplomatic Realignments:
- India has faced challenges in adjusting its diplomatic strategies due to the shifting political landscapes in its neighbouring countries.
- This has impacted its ability to maintain stable relations and influence regional dynamics effectively.
- Strategic Interests
- Loss of Influence: The political changes have led to a reduction in India’s influence in some neighbouring countries, impacting its strategic interests and regional security.
- Compromised Partnerships: Long-standing partnerships have been affected, necessitating a recalibration of India’s foreign policy.
- Economic Implications
- Economic disruptions in countries like Sri Lanka and political instability in Bangladesh and Nepal have implications for regional trade and investment opportunities.
Mistakes in India’s Approach to the Issues
- Over-Reliance on Individual Leaders
- India’s heavy reliance on specific leaders, like Sheikh Hasina or President Solih, has led to challenges when political changes occur.
- This approach has sometimes left India vulnerable to shifts in leadership.
- Neglect of Opposition: In countries like Bangladesh, neglecting opposition parties has led to diplomatic isolation when the ruling party’s position shifts.
- One-Sided Policies: India’s one-sided policies in its neighbourhood, such as ignoring opposition voices or aligning too closely with certain leaders, have created vulnerabilities.
- Communal Bias: Policies perceived as communal, such as the Citizenship Amendment Act , have strained relations with Muslim-majority countries and affected India’s regional standing.
Way Forward
- Diversify Diplomatic Engagement
- Inclusive Diplomacy: India should engage with all political factions in neighbouring countries to ensure balanced relationships and mitigate the impact of sudden political changes.
- Adapt Foreign Policy
- Pragmatic Approach: Adopt a more pragmatic approach to foreign policy that does not overly depend on specific leaders or parties but engages with all stakeholders.
- Economic and Strategic Interests: Prioritize economic cooperation and strategic partnerships that align with India’s long-term interests and regional stability.
- Address Domestic and Regional Concerns
- Economic and Social Reforms: Address domestic economic and social issues that may affect India’s regional influence.
- Humanitarian and Security Issues: Continue to address humanitarian concerns in conflict regions and ensure that regional security is maintained through proactive diplomacy and cooperation.
Conclusion
The tumultuous political landscape in South Asia presents India with both challenges and lessons. The recent political shifts in the Maldives, Nepal, and Bangladesh underscore the need for India to adopt a more nuanced and flexible diplomatic approach. By diversifying engagement, avoiding over-reliance on individual leaders, and strengthening regional mechanisms, India can better navigate the complexities of its neighbourhood.
Related PYQ
Discuss the political developments in the Maldives in the last two years. Should they be of any cause of concern to India? [ UPSC Civil Services Exam – Mains 2013]
Practice Question
Recent political challenges in neighbouring South Asian countries, have posed significant challenges for India’s foreign policy. Explain? [150 words]