India-Bangladesh Relations: Cooperation and Conflict
Q1. Mention one area each of cooperation and disagreement between India and Bangladesh?
Ans One area of cooperation between India and Bangladesh is in the field of trade and economic relations, where both countries have been working to enhance bilateral trade and investment.
One area of disagreement between India and Bangladesh has been regarding the sharing of river waters, particularly the Teesta River, which has been a point of contention due to differing water usage needs and concerns about equitable distribution.
Q2. Write the name of two conflicting communities in Sri Lanka?
Ans Two conflicting communities in Sri Lanka are the Sinhalese and the Tamils.
Q3. Mention two issues on which India and Bangladesh co-operate?
Ans India and Bangladesh cooperate on various issues, but two significant ones are:
1. Trade and Economic Relations: Both countries collaborate to enhance bilateral trade and economic ties, including initiatives to facilitate trade, investment, and economic development.
2. Security and Counterterrorism: India and Bangladesh work together to address security challenges and combat terrorism through intelligence sharing, joint patrols, and cooperation on border security.
Q4. Mention two areas of conflict between India and Bangladesh?
Ans Two areas of conflict between India and Bangladesh include:
1. Border Disputes: Despite significant efforts to resolve border issues, disputes still arise over certain areas along the India-Bangladesh border, leading to occasional tensions.
2. Water Sharing: Disagreements over the sharing of river waters, particularly the Teesta River, have been a source of conflict between the two countries due to differing water usage needs and concerns about equitable distribution.
Q5. Mention two areas conflict between India and Pakistan?
Ans Two areas of conflict between India and Pakistan include:
1. Kashmir: The longstanding dispute over the region of Kashmir has been a major source of conflict between India and Pakistan, leading to multiple wars and ongoing tensions.
2. Terrorism: India accuses Pakistan of supporting and harboring terrorist groups that operate against India, leading to frequent diplomatic tensions and occasional military confrontations.
Q6. Mention two areas co-operation and two areas of disagreement between India and Bangladesh?
Ans Two areas of cooperation between India and Bangladesh are:
1. Trade and Economic Relations: Both countries collaborate to enhance bilateral trade and economic ties, including initiatives to facilitate trade, investment, and economic development.
2. Security and Counterterrorism: India and Bangladesh work together to address security challenges and combat terrorism through intelligence sharing, joint patrols, and cooperation on border security.
Two areas of disagreement between India and Bangladesh are:
1. Border Disputes: Despite significant efforts to resolve border issues, disputes still arise over certain areas along the India-Bangladesh border, leading to occasional tensions.
2. Water Sharing: Disagreements over the sharing of river waters, particularly the Teesta River, have been a source of conflict between the two countries due to differing water usage needs and concerns about equitable distribution.
Q1. Discuss two factors which have contributed to Pakistan’s failure in building stable democracy?
Ans Two significant factors contributing to Pakistan’s struggles in building a stable democracy are:
1. Military Intervention: Pakistan has experienced multiple military coups and periods of direct military rule since its independence in 1947. The military has often intervened in politics, citing reasons such as restoring order, combating corruption, or asserting control during times of perceived instability. These interventions have disrupted the democratic process, undermined civilian institutions, and perpetuated a cycle of political instability. The military’s influence has also extended to the formulation of national security and foreign policies, further complicating the democratic transition.
2. Ethnic and Sectarian Divisions: Pakistan is a diverse country with various ethnic, linguistic, and sectarian groups. The competition for resources, power, and representation among these groups has often led to political polarization and instability. Ethnic tensions, particularly between the dominant Punjabi ethnic group and other smaller ethnicities, have fueled separatist movements and conflicts in provinces like Balochistan and Sindh. Additionally, sectarian violence between Sunni and Shia Muslims has further exacerbated social divisions and undermined national unity. These internal fissures have hindered the consolidation of democratic institutions and the establishment of consensus-based governance.
Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, ensure civilian supremacy over the military, promote inclusive governance that addresses the grievances of marginalized groups, and foster national unity through dialogue and reconciliation.
Q2. Justify India’s inclusion in the Security Council as a permanent member?
Ans India’s inclusion in the UN Security Council as a permanent member is justified due to its:
1. Population and Size: Second-most populous country, representing a significant portion of the world’s population.
2. Economic Power: One of the largest and fastest-growing economies, contributing significantly to global GDP and trade.
3. Strategic Importance: Geopolitically significant, serving as a bridge between regions, enhancing regional perspectives in addressing security challenges.
4. Peacekeeping Contributions: Major contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, aligning with the council’s mandate.
5. Commitment to Multilateralism: Supporter of multilateralism and collective security, strengthening the council’s legitimacy and effectiveness.
Q3. Discuss briefly about the recent relationship between India and Pakistan?
Ans Recent relations between India and Pakistan have been characterized by:
1. Kashmir Conflict: Persistent tensions over Kashmir remain a primary issue.
2. Cross-Border Terrorism: India accuses Pakistan of supporting militant groups, leading to sporadic crises.
3. Diplomatic Efforts: Occasional dialogues, like the Kartarpur Corridor opening in 2019, have occurred amidst challenges.
4. Limited Trade: Bilateral trade and people-to-people contacts remain minimal due to political strains.
5. International Mediation: Various actors have intermittently intervened, but sustained progress remains elusive amidst deep-rooted issues.
Q4. Write a brief note on India USA relationship?
Ans The relationship between India and the United States has witnessed significant advancements:
1. Strategic Partnership: Both nations have deepened their strategic cooperation, particularly in defense and counterterrorism, evident through defense agreements like LEMOA and COMCASA.
2. Economic Relations: Bilateral trade has expanded, with efforts to enhance ties, although challenges like market access persist.
3. People-to-People Ties: Cultural and educational exchanges have flourished, fostering mutual understanding.
4. Diplomatic Engagement: High-level visits and dialogues occur frequently, highlighting the importance both countries place on their relationship.
5. Global Cooperation: Collaboration extends to global issues such as climate change, cybersecurity, and health security, with coordination in multilateral forums.
The transition from Cold War estrangement to a strategic partnership underscores shared values, converging interests, and mutual respect, shaping the dynamic India-US relationship in the 21st century.
Q5. Point out the reason which led the people of East Pakistan for a liberation movement?
Ans The people of East Pakistan were driven to launch a liberation movement due to:
1. Political Marginalization: Feeling marginalized and underrepresented in the government dominated by West Pakistan, despite being the majority population.
2. Cultural and Linguistic Differences: The imposition of Urdu as the sole national language alienated the Bengali-speaking population, exacerbating cultural and linguistic tensions.
3. Economic Exploitation: Despite contributing significantly to the national economy, East Pakistan felt that the benefits were unfairly distributed, leading to economic grievances.
4. Military Crackdown: The brutal military crackdown in March 1971, known as Operation Searchlight, aimed at suppressing demands for autonomy, further fueled resentment and galvanized support for independence.
These factors collectively propelled the people of East Pakistan towards the liberation movement, ultimately leading to the creation of Bangladesh as an independent nation in December 1971.
Q1. How can permanent peace be established in South Asia? Discuss?
Ans Establishing permanent peace in South Asia requires addressing complex historical, political, and socio-economic factors. Key measures include:
1. Conflict Resolution: Resolving longstanding disputes, particularly the Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan, through dialogue, diplomacy, and confidence-building measures.
2. Bilateral Engagement: Promoting sustained dialogue and cooperation between South Asian countries to address mutual concerns, enhance trust, and foster regional integration.
3. Economic Cooperation: Enhancing economic interdependence through trade, investment, and connectivity projects to promote shared prosperity and reduce tensions.
4. People-to-People Contacts: Facilitating cultural exchanges, tourism, and educational initiatives to promote understanding and bridge societal divides.
5. Conflict Prevention: Strengthening institutions for conflict prevention, crisis management, and peacebuilding, including regional mechanisms such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
6. Demilitarization: Reducing military tensions and arms build-up through confidence-building measures, transparency, and arms control agreements.
7. Promotion of Democracy and Human Rights: Upholding democratic principles, human rights, and rule of law to address internal conflicts and promote stability.
8. Regional Leadership: Encouraging constructive leadership from major powers in the region and international actors to facilitate dialogue and support peacebuilding efforts.
By implementing these measures comprehensively and inclusively, South Asia can move towards a more peaceful and prosperous future for all its inhabitants.
Q2. Write a brief note on India USA relationship?
Ans The relationship between India and the United States has evolved significantly over the years, transitioning from estrangement during the Cold War to a strategic partnership in the 21st century. Key aspects of this relationship include:
1. Strategic Partnership: India and the US have developed a robust strategic partnership, particularly in defense and security cooperation. Both countries engage in joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and defense technology transfer.
2. Economic Ties: Bilateral trade between India and the US has grown substantially, with both countries being important trading partners for each other. Efforts are ongoing to enhance economic cooperation through initiatives such as the US-India Strategic and Commercial Dialogue.
3. People-to-People Contacts: Cultural and educational exchanges have flourished, fostering greater understanding and collaboration between the two countries’ societies. Large Indian diaspora communities in the US further contribute to people-to-people ties.
4. Diplomatic Engagement: High-level visits and dialogues between Indian and US officials are frequent, reflecting the importance both countries attach to their bilateral relationship. Diplomatic cooperation extends to various global issues, including climate change, counterterrorism, and regional security.
5. Global Cooperation: India and the US collaborate closely on various global issues, including climate change, cybersecurity, and healthcare. Both countries coordinate their efforts in multilateral forums such as the United Nations and the G20.
Overall, the India-US relationship is characterized by growing cooperation across multiple sectors, driven by shared democratic values, converging interests, and mutual respect.
Q3.Discuss the role ans limitations of SAARC as a forum of regional cooperation?
Ans The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) serves as a forum for regional cooperation among South Asian countries. Its role and limitations can be summarized as follows:
Role:
1. Promotion of Cooperation: SAARC facilitates dialogue and collaboration among member states on economic, social, and cultural issues, aiming to enhance regional cooperation and integration.
2. Peace and Stability: It provides a platform for conflict resolution and diplomatic engagement, contributing to peace and stability in South Asia by addressing regional tensions and disputes.
3. Cultural Exchange: SAARC promotes cultural exchanges and people-to-people contacts, fostering understanding and cooperation across borders.
4. Development Initiatives: It initiates and supports development projects to address common challenges like poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation in the region.
Limitations:
1. Bilateral Disputes: Persistent disputes, notably between India and Pakistan, hinder cooperation and progress within SAARC.
2. Uneven Development: Economic disparities among member states impede integration efforts.
3. Limited Institutional Capacity: SAARC’s bureaucratic structure and slow decision-making processes inhibit effective responses to emerging challenges.
4. Security Concerns: Threats like terrorism and border tensions undermine trust and cooperation, limiting SAARC’s ability to promote peace and stability effectively.
Overcoming these challenges requires concerted efforts by member states to prioritize cooperation and address political, economic, and security concerns collaboratively.
Q4. What does SAFTA stand for? Examine the concept of SAFTA?
Ans SAFTA stands for the South Asian Free Trade Area. It is an agreement aimed at promoting trade liberalization and economic cooperation among the member states of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The concept of SAFTA involves:
1. Tariff Reduction: SAFTA aims to progressively reduce tariffs on intra-regional trade among member states, with the goal of creating a free trade area within South Asia.
2. Trade Facilitation: SAFTA includes provisions for trade facilitation measures such as customs cooperation, harmonization of standards, and simplification of trade procedures to promote smoother trade flows within the region.
3. Special and Differential Treatment: SAFTA recognizes the differing levels of development among member states and includes provisions for special and differential treatment for the least developed countries (LDCs) to ensure their integration into the regional trading system.
4. Dispute Resolution: SAFTA establishes mechanisms for dispute resolution to address trade-related disputes among member states and ensure the effective implementation of the agreement.
While SAFTA holds the potential to enhance economic integration and cooperation within South Asia, its effectiveness has been limited by various challenges, including political tensions, non-tariff barriers, infrastructure deficiencies, and slow progress in tariff reduction commitments. Addressing these challenges is crucial to fully realizing the benefits of SAFTA and promoting inclusive and sustainable economic development in the region.