Q. ‘The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well for India.’ What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer. (250 words, 15 marks)
Why the Question?
UPSC PYQ – CSE Mains – 2023
Keywords of the Question
- Expansion and strengthening of NATO
- Stronger US-Europe strategic partnership
Directive Word
What is your opinion – When a question asks for your opinion, it is seeking your personal viewpoint or stance on a particular issue. You should clearly state your opinion, support your opinion with logical arguments and evidence, ensure your opinion is balanced and considers different perspectives.
Give reasons – When a question asks you to give reasons, it is asking you to explain why something is the way it is. You should provide a clear and logical explanation, list multiple reasons, if applicable. Support each reason with evidence or examples.
How to approach this Question?
Introduction
- Briefly introduce NATO and its recent expansion.
- Mention the strengthening of the US-Europe strategic partnership.
- State the relevance of these developments to India.
Body
- Benefits for India:
- Security cooperation and counter-terrorism.
- Economic stability and trade opportunities.
- Technological advancements and defense collaboration.
- Climate change and healthcare partnerships.
- Challenges for India:
- Balancing relations with other global powers (e.g., Russia, China).
- Potential geopolitical tensions.
- Examples:
- Intelligence sharing on terrorism.
- Economic agreements and trade deals.
- Defense technology transfers (e.g., Rafale jets).
Conclusion
- Summarize the overall impact on India.
- Highlight the importance of strategic autonomy.
- Suggest a balanced approach to leverage benefits while managing challenges.
Note: Please note that the following ‘answers’ are not ‘model answers’ nor are they synopses in the strictest sense. Instead, they are content designed to meet the demands of the question while providing comprehensive coverage of the topic.
Answer Key
Introduction
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has been expanding and strengthening its alliances, while the US-Europe strategic partnership has also been fortified. These developments have significant implications for India, a rising global power with strategic interests in maintaining regional stability and fostering international cooperation.
Body
Benefits for India
- Security Cooperation:
- Enhanced intelligence sharing on terrorism and security threats.
- Example: Collaboration in counter-terrorism efforts and peacekeeping missions.
- Economic Stability:
- A stable US-Europe relationship fosters global economic stability.
- Example: US-EU trade and technology council meetings leading to improved economic policies.
- Technological Advancements:
- Access to advanced defense technologies.
- Example: Acquisition of Rafale fighter jets from France, a NATO member.
- Climate Change and Healthcare:
- Collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges.
- Example: Participation in the Global Methane Pledge and vaccine development initiatives.
- Maritime Security:
- Enhanced cooperation in securing maritime routes.
- Example: NATO’s support in tackling piracy and illegal activities in the Indian Ocean.
- Promotion of Democracy and Stability:
- Reinforcement of shared democratic values and human rights.
- Example: NATO’s commitment to democracy aligns with India’s governance principles.
Challenges for India
- Balancing Relations with Global Powers:
- Managing diplomatic ties with Russia and China.
- Example: India’s historical defense ties with Russia and economic relations with China.
- Geopolitical Tensions:
- Potential for increased regional conflicts.
- Example: China’s aggressive postures in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Strategic Autonomy:
- Maintaining independence in foreign policy decisions.
- Example: India’s non-alignment policy and strategic autonomy in international relations.
- Economic Dependencies:
- Risk of over-reliance on Western economies.
- Example: Trade imbalances and dependency on Western markets.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership present both opportunities and challenges for India. While these developments can enhance security, economic stability, and technological advancements, India must carefully navigate its diplomatic relations and maintain strategic autonomy. A balanced approach will enable India to leverage the benefits while managing the associated challenges effectively.
Mind Map
