Contemporary South Asia 1 mark Name the party that dominates the political affairs of Maldives. (a) Maldivian dictatorship party (b) Maldivian Democratic party (c) Maldivian People’s Party (d) Maldivian Majority party (b) Maldivian Democratic party What is meant by South Asia? The expression of South Asia usually includes the following countries: India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Nepal are called South Asia. It stands for diversity in every sense and yet constitutes one geo-political space. Give the significance of Tashkent Agreement? It was an agreement signed between India and Pakistan after the war of 1965. Both the countries affirmed the need for a negotiated peaceful settlement of disputes. Who took over the administration of Pakistan after Pakistan framed its first constitution? General Ayub Khan took over the Pakistan and soon got himself elected. Name the person during whose regime Pakistan faced the Bangladesh crisis? Yahya Khan Name two South Asian Countries that remained a democracy throughout its existence as independent countries? India and Sri Lanka Name the countries that comprise South Asia? Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. When was the first constitution adopted by Pakistan? Pakistan adopted its first constitution in 1956, however it was short lived. It was abrogated in 1958 by President is kandar Mirza. What is the similarity between the democracy in India and Sri Lanka? The similarity between India and Sri Lanka is that both have remained a democracy throughout their existence as an independent country. What does LTTE stand for? LTTE stands for Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. Which parts of Srilanka are controlled by LTTE? The north-eastern parts of Sri Lanka were controlled by LTTE. What is the name of the spy agency of Pakistan? The name of the spy agency of Pakistan is Inter Services Intelligence (ISI). What is the expanded form of SAARC? SAARC stands for South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. A regional organisation established in 1985 by seven south Asian countries.
When was the SAARC established? SAARC was established on December 8, 1985. Name the founder countries of SAARC? The founder countries of SAARC are India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Maldives and Bhutan. Which country joined SAARC on April 3, 2007? Afghanistan joined SAARC as its eighth member on April 3, 2007. What does SAFTA stand for? SAFTA stands for South Asian Free Trade Agreement. Which two non-regional powers are the key players in south Asian politics? China and US are the key non-regional players in south Asian politics. Which region is known as conflict prone zone? South Asia is known as conflict prone zone, owing to the variety of conflicts between the countries of the region. What is a Coup? A coup is a sudden illegal, often violent, takeover of government power by army. Name the countries that enjoy observer status in SAARC. There are nine countries that enjoy observer status in SAARC: Australia, China, Burma, European Union, Iran, Japan, USA, Mauritius and South Korea. Which two countries signed the Tashkent agreement? Tashkent agreement was a peace agreement signed by India and Pakistan in 1966. Name the two military blocs joined by Pakistan during the Cold War. Pakistan joined the two western led alliances SEATO (South East Asian Treaty Organisation) and CENTO (Central Treaty Organisation) in 1954-55. Define free trade agreement. Free Trade agreement is signed between countries to establish a trade bloc wherein trade tariffs are eliminated on goods and services exchanged between partner countries. When did India sign FTA with Afghanistan? The Free Trade Agreement between India and Afghanistan was signed on 6 March 2003. Why Afghanistan is important to India? Afghanistan holds strategic importance for India because it is a gateway to energy-rich Central Asian states such as Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan. Who won the Nobel Peace Prize for initiating Grameen Banks in Bangladesh? Grameen banks were started in 1976 by Professor Muhammd Yunus to examine the possibility of credit delivery system for the rural poor. The organisation and Muhammad Yunus were awarded Nobel Peace Prize in 2006.
Can you think of the potential advantages of including Myanmar as a permanent SAARC member? Myanmar is rich in energy resources especially renewable energy like hydropower, wind, solar, geothermal and also natural gas reserves. These can prove to be an asset to growing South Asian economies like India. Name the leaders who signed the 1972 Shimla Agreement. The Shimla Agreement was signed on July 2, 1972 by Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and President of Pakistan Z.A Bhutto. The agreement was signed after 1971 war between India and Pakistan. It was to ensure long lasting friendly relations and peaceful resolution of conflicts. Which international organisation mediated the Indus Water Treaty between India and Pakistan? The Indus Water Treaty between India and Pakistan, signed on September 19, 1960, was brokered by the World Bank. What is ‘Smiling Buddha’? In 1974, India conducted its first nuclear test codenamed as "Smiling Buddha" at Pokhran in Rajasthan. This test is formally known as Pokhran-I. Do observer countries participate in SAARC deliberations? Observers are countries or organisations which send their representative to attend the SAARC summit only for the purpose of watching its deliberations and proceedings. Unlike the members, they do not participate in its decision-making process. Did India ever face a crisis of democracy? Indian witnessed a democratic crisis from 1975-1977 during the national emergency declared by Mrs. Indira Gandhi. It was a crisis of democracy as opposition parties and press was crushed. What problem was faced by Pakistan during Yahya’s military rule? Pakistan faced the problem of Bangladesh crisis which resulted in the formation of an independent country named ‘Bangladesh’ with the help of India during Yahya's prime minister-ship. The Government of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was removed by__________. General Zia-Ul-Haq 2 marks List three challenges to Democracy in Nepal? The three challenges to Democracy in Nepal came from a triangular conflict between: • The Monarchist forces • The Democrats and • The Maoists As a result in April 2006 there were massive country wide, pro-democracy protests. What do you understand by SAARC? The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is an economic and political organisation of 8 countries in southern Asia. It was established on December 8, 1985. It is a major regional initiative by the south Asian states to evolve cooperation through multilateral means.
SAARC members are: India, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives and Afghanistan. What is SAFTA? SAARC countries signed the South Asian Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) which creates a framework for the establishment of a free trade zone for the whole of South Asia. This agreement came into force on January 1, 2006. Under this agreement SAARC members will lower their trade tariffs by twenty percent by 2007. Why is south Asia known as conflict prone zone? South Asia is known as conflict prone zone because of pending border and water sharing disputes between the states of the region. There are also conflicts arising out of insurgency, ethnic strife and resource sharing. What kind of relationship India has with Maldives? India's ties with Maldives remain warm and cordial. India helped Maldives in 1988, when some Tamil mercenaries from Sri Lanka attacked Maldives. India has also contributed towards the island’s economic development, and in spheres of tourism and fisheries. What problem was faced by Pakistan during Yahya’s military rule? During Yahya's military rule, Pakistan faced the problem of Bangladesh crisis and a war with India in 1971. After the war, in which Pakistan was defeated, East Pakistan broke away and emerged as an independent country called Bangladesh. What was the consequence of the people’s protests in Nepal in April, 2006? There was a massive country wide pro-democracy protest in April, 2006. The king was forced to restore the House of Representatives that had been dissolved in April, 2002. The largely non violent movement was led by the Seven Party Alliances (SPA), the Maoists and social activists. 2006 pro-democracy movement marked the end of monarchy in Nepal, stripping the King of all powers. India’s relations with its south Asian neighbours are marked by mutual suspicion. Comment India has various problems with its smaller neighbours in the region. India fears that political instability in these countries can help outside powers to gain influence in the region. On the other hand, its neighbours are suspicious of India’s intention due to its large size and power. They fear that India wants to be a regionally dominant power. What are the reasons for ineffectiveness of SAARC and its consequences? SAARC’s inability to play a crucial role in integrating South Asian countries in the spheres of economic, political and territorial disputes. Due to these disputes, south Asia nations have not been able to harness the benefits of a unified economy. The role of SAARC in south Asia has greatly diminished and is now used as a mere platform for annual talks and meetings between its members. What are the fears of India’s neighbours about SAFTA? SAFTA creates a framework for the establishment of free trade zone for the whole of South Asia. But India’s neighbours fear that SAFTA is a way for India to invade their markets and to influence their societies and politics through commercial ventures and commercial presence in their countries. What are the contentious issues between India and Pakistan?
Conflicts over Kashmir issue, strategic issues like the control of Siachen glacier, acquisition of arms, sharing of river waters and Pakistan sponsored terrorism in India are some of the contentious issues between India and Pakistan. List three challenges to democracy in Nepal? • Maoists' influence in many parts of Nepal and their belief in armed insurrection. • Restoration of parliament and elections of a popular government. • Writing of constitution for Nepal. Explain the relations of India with Bhutan? India enjoys a very special relationship with Bhutan. India is grateful to Bhutanese government who helped India in weeding out the guerrillas and militants from northeastern India that operated from Bhutan. India is involved in big hydroelectric projects in Bhutan and remains the Himalayan kingdom’s biggest source of development aid. What do you mean by geopolitics? Geopolitics is the relationship between geography and politics that guides the foreign policy of countries. Geopolitical theorists have sought to demonstrate the importance of factors such as the acquisition of natural boundaries, access to important sea routes and the control of strategically important areas and resources in the determination of foreign policies of nations. State two factors that shows America’s increasing interest in South Asia since 2000. American involvement in South Asia is prompted by the following two factors: • Political factors - Most major issues that confront US policy are ingrained in the South Asian subcontinent: terrorism, Islamic radicalism, state failure and nation building, promotion of democracy. • Economic factors - It is in US interest to support the rapid emergence of an economic community in South Asia that could eventually balance China’s size, dynamism and global impact. What made 1971 a memorable year in India’s foreign relations? Two significant events took place in 1971 which had a great impact on India’s relations with its neighbours: • India’s support to East Pakistan in its struggle for independence against West Pakistan. This culminated in the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent country. • Indo-Soviet Treaty of Friendship signed for 20 years. State any two areas of cooperation between India and Afghanistan. Since 2001, India has offered $1.2 billion for Afghanistan's reconstruction, making it the largest regional donor to the country. By helping rebuild a new Afghanistan, India strives for greater regional stability. Bilateral trade between India and Afghanistan has been on the rise, reaching $358 million in 2007-2008. What led to the demand for an independent country in East Pakistan? The people of East Pakistan opposed the domination of Western Pakistan, imposition of the Urdu language and unfair treatment meted out to the Bengali culture and language. Their struggle led to the emergence of independent Bangladesh in 1971. What is Tamil speaking people's problem of Sri Lanka?
Tamils want separate nation in North East of country. From 1983 LLTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) has been fighting an armed struggle with the army of Sri Lanka and demanding “Tamil Eelam” or a separate country for the Tamils of Sri Lanka. LTTE controls the north-eastern part of Sri Lanka. What was the consequence of the people’s protests in Nepal in April, 2006? There was a massive country wide pro-democracy protest in April, 2006. The king was forced to restore the House of Representatives that had been dissolved in April, 2002. The largely non violent movement was led by the Seven Party Alliances (SPA), the Maoists and social activists. Describe India Bhutan relations? India enjoys very good relation with Bhutan. India and Bhutan does not have any major conflict and disputes. India is grateful to Bhutanese government who helped India in weeding out the guerrillas and militants from north-eastern India that operated from Bhutan. India is involved in big hydroelectric projects in Bhutan and remains the Himalayan kingdom’s biggest source of development aid. What are the fears of India’s neighbours about SAFTA? SAFTA creates a framework for the establishment of free trade zone for the whole of South Asia. But India’s neighbours fear that SAFTA is a way for India to invade their markets and to influence their societies and politics through commercial ventures and commercial presence in their countries. What is the role of USA in South Asia American involvement in South Asia is increased after cold war. The US has had good relations with India and Pakistan. Since the end of Cold war US is working for normalize relation of India and Pakistan. Economic reforms and liberal economic policies of both countries have greatly increased the depth of US partnership in the region. The large South Asian population and markets of the region also give US an added stake in th future of regional security and peace. 4 marks Discuss the relations between India and Maldives? India and Maldives have enjoyed close and friendly relations since Maldives became independent in 1965. Disputes between the two countries have been few, and both sides amicably settled their maritime boundary in 1976. In November 1988, at the behest of the Maldivian government, Indian paratroopers and naval forces crushed a coup attempt by mercenaries. In the 1980s and 1990s, Indian and Maldivian leaders maintained regular consultations at the highest levels. New Delhi also has provided developmental assistance to Male (Maldives' capital) and has participated in bilateral cooperation programs in infrastructure development, health and welfare, civil aviation, telecommunications, and labour resources development. Mention four areas of disagreement between India and Bangladesh? The areas of disagreement between India and Bangladesh are: • Issue of sharing the Ganga and Brahmaputra river waters. • Bangladesh supports anti Indian Islamic fundamentalists groups. • Bangladesh denies the illegal immigration into Indian border. • Refusal by Bangladesh to allow Indian troops to move through its territory to north eastern parts of India What is Shimla Agreement?
The Shimla Agreement was signed between India and Pakistan on July 3, 1972. It followed from the war between the two nations in the previous year that had led to the independence of East Pakistan as Bangladesh. The agreement laid down the principles that should govern their future relations. It also conceived steps to be taken for further normalization of mutual relations. Most importantly, it bound the two countries "to settle their differences by peaceful means through bilateral negotiations". It also cemented the Line of Control as something close to a permanent border. Mention the achievements of Sri Lanka inspite of the ongoing ethnic conflict in the country? Inspite of the ongoing ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka, it has registered considerable economic growth and recorded high levels of human development. Sri Lanka ranks 91 in the Human Development Index recorded in November 2010. It has successfully controlled the rate of growth of population. Sri Lanka is the first country in the south Asia region to liberalise the economy and it has maintained the highest per capita gross domestic product (GDP) for many years. Besides that, it has maintained a democratic political system since its independence. Mention four areas of disagreement between India and Bangladesh? The areas of disagreement between India and Bangladesh are: • Bangladesh supports anti Indian Islamic fundamentalists groups. • Bangladesh denies the illegal immigration into Indian border. • Refusal by Bangladesh to allow Indian troops to move through its territory to north eastern parts of India. • Issue of sharing the Ganga and Brahmaputra river waters. Mention some of the recent agreements between India and Pakistan? Recent agreements taken to reduce tension and build peace between both the countries are: • Confidence building measures to reduce the risk of war. • Collaboration to create an atmosphere of friendship among the people of both the countries. • Summits are held to understand each other better and to find solutions on the issues of conflict. • Number of bus routes have been opened up between the two countries. • Visas are issued more easily. • Trade between the countries has increased. What are the reasons for ineffectiveness of SAARC? SAARC’s inability to play a crucial role in integrating south Asia can be attributed to the following factors: • South Asian nations do not have the feeling of belonging to one region. • South Asian nations are still embroiled in the process of nation building like Nepal. • Relations between south Asian nations are still marked by mistrust and antagonism. Example India and Pakistan’s relations. • Conflicts in south Asia range from strategic and boundary disputes, water sharing, migration issues, trade and transit questions to ethnic tensions and cross-border terrorism. • Success of SAARC has been limited to stalled summits and cancelled meetings. Make suggestions to improve India's relations with Pakistan?
The main issue of disagreement between India and Pakistan is Kashmir, which should be brought to the dialogue table and resolved bilaterally. • Diplomats and government officials from both the countries must visit each other and adopt confidence building measures. • Visa restrictions should be relaxed to encourage people to people contact and cultural exchange. • Both the countries should improve trade and commerce relations. • Both the countries must stop arms race. • Pakistan must stop supporting the terrorists. What are the objectives of SAARC? The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is an economic and political organisation of 8 countries in southern Asia. It was established on December 8, 1985. Its objectives are: • Promotion of collective self reliance. • Acceleration of economic growth in the region. • Collaboration amongst member states on economic, social, cultural, technical, and scientific fronts. • Promotion of mutual trust and understanding. • Stimulating regional cooperation. • Suppression of terrorism and smuggling of drugs. What are the factors that have crippled Pakistan’s efforts to build stable democracy? Several factors have crippled Pakistan's efforts to build a stable democracy. These factors are: • The social dominance of the military, clergy, and landowning aristocracy has led to frequent overthrowing of elected governments and establishment of military government. • Pakistan’s conflict with India has made the pro military groups more powerful. These groups argue that political parties and democracy in Pakistan are flawed; that Pakistan’s security would be harmed by selfish minded parties and chaotic democracy, and that the army’s stay in power is, therefore, justified. • The lack of genuine international support for democratic rule in Pakistan has further encouraged the military to continue its dominance. How did the civil war in Sri Lanka end? • In Feb 2002, Prabhakaran (the leader of the LTTE) signed a historic ceasefire agreement with the Colombo government. However, in 2005 hostilities renewed. In 2006, the government launched military offensive against the LTTE, driving them out of the eastern province. • In 2008, government announced withdrawal from ceasefire agreement, alleging breach of agreement by the LTTE. • In 2009, through international crackdown on funding of Tamil Tigers and blocking arms smuggling, LTTE was defeated. Thus, a 30 year long military campaign ended in 2009. South Asia is a region where rivalry and goodwill, competition and cooperation coexist. Substantiate the statement with an example. In a world marked by globalisation, development and resource scarcity, countries are becoming increasing interdependent.
E.g. China and India are locked in global competition to ensure resource security. At the same time bilateral trade between the two countries is booming and China is all set to become India’s largest trading partner. India and China have adopted similar policies in WTO. In the Copenhagen Summit, both opposed legally binding emission targets for developing nations. Thus, the relationship is marked by both cooperation and competition. Give two examples of China’s growing influence in South Asia. China has been improving its trade and investment relations with South Asian countries through treaties and bilateral cooperation. Two examples are: • China signed Free Trade Agreement with Pakistan in 2006. • China and Bangladesh granted each other the Most Favoured Nation treatment in 1984. China’s policies are seen by India as an attempt to balance India within the subcontinent. Briefly discuss India-Maldives areas of cooperation. Some of the areas of cooperation between the two countries are: • Under the Bilateral Trade Agreement signed in 1981, both countries agreed to grant most favoured nation status to each other. • Both the countries have a record of strengthening their defence ties through a wide range of defence activities. Maldives and India have been conducting a series of coast guard maritime joint training exercises code named ‘DOSTI’ since 1991. • Indian investors have sought business opportunities in various sectors of the Maldivian economy like tourism, shipping, telecommunication and banking. List the landmark events in Bhutan’s transition from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. • In 1998, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, who is Bhutan's fourth hereditary ruler, voluntarily curtailed his absolute monarchy. • In March 2005, he released a draft constitution for the country to shift it to a twoparty democracy. • In December 2006, he abdicated in favour of his son, Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchukin, becoming king. • Bhutan's first national parliamentary elections were held in March 2008. The election marked Bhutan's transition from an absolute monarchy to a democracy. Highlight the areas of cooperation between India and Bangladesh. India and Bangladesh cooperate on many issues like: • Trade: Bangladesh is a part of India’s Look East policy to link up with Southeast Asia via Myanmar. • India extended a line of credit of US$ 1 billion to Bangladesh for a range of projects like railways and infrastructure. • Disaster management: During 2007, Hurricane Sidr – India adopted ten worst hit Bangladeshi villages. • In January 2005, Bangladesh agreed to allow a proposed pipeline to transport natural gas from Myanmar to India through its territory. Trace the transition of Maldives from a Sultanate to a republican presidential system. Maldives was a Sultanate till 1968. Violent protests in 2004 and 2005 organised by the Current president Mohamed Nasheed and his party led to a series of reforms in the
country. In June 2005, the Parliament of Maldives voted unanimously to introduce a multi-party system. Democracy strengthened after 2005 elections as opposition parties were legalised. The new constitution was ratified in August 2008, paving way for the first multi-party presidential elections. Mohamed Nasheed became the first President to be elected by a multi-party democracy in Maldives. Examine the objectives of SAFTA and the challenges faced. South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) consisting of seven countries is a regional trade agreement that came into force in 2006 after prolonged negotiations. SAFTA is guided by the commitment to strengthen intra-SAARC economic cooperation and to maximise region's potential for trade and development. Its aim was to lower trade tariffs by 20 percent by 2007. Some challenges in the way of deeper economic relations are: • The current framework does not include comprehensive agreement for trade in services. • Cross-border smuggling through porous borders. Why democracy didn't take roots in Pakistan? • The social dominance of the military, clergy and landowning aristocracy has led to frequent overthrow of elected governments and the establishment of military rule. • The lack of education of people and politicians in democratic fundamentals Leadership becomes a family affair. • The lack of genuine support for democratic rule in Pakistan has further encouraged the military to continue its dominance. All the above factors among others led to the failure of democracy in Pakistan. How Bangladesh came in existence? In 1971 general election were held in Pakistan. Awami League (east Pakistan) led by Sheikh Mujibh won 167 of 169 seats and over 80 % of popular votes in East Pakistan and got absolute majority in the Pakistan National Assembly (167 of the total 313 seats). But leader of PPP who were popular in west Pakistan denied to accept result. As a result Awami League launched campaign Bengal nationalism and to free Bangladesh. India came to support Bangladesh and sanded its army. In December 1971 Pak army surrendered before India and Bangladesh came into existence. Sheikh Mojibur Rahman became first Bangladesh president Describe the struggle of democracy in Nepal? Nepal was Hindu kingdom and a constitutional democracy till 2008. In 1990 kingship allowed some political activities in 1990. In 1990 first general election were held and second in 1991 because of new constitution. New king Gyanendra dismisses elected government in 2005 and took full control of the government. Many political parties and pro democracy groups as Maoist started to demand of democracy. Maoist played important role in this movement. Maoist wanted to remove kingship from Nepal. After demonstration and agitation in Nepal, King agreed to conduct the election and to leave the Kingship. Point out some suggestions to improve relations with Pakistan? • The main issues of disagreement between India and Pakistan are Kashmir. Hence this issue should be resolved as earliest as possible. • Cultural delegates from both the countries must visit each other quite frequently. • Visa restrictions should be relaxed. • Should improve trade and commerce relations. • Stop arms race.
•
Take severe measures to stop terrorism.
6 marks What is Grameen Bank? The Grameen is a microfinance organization and community development bank started in Bangladesh that makes small loans (known as micro credit or "Grammeen credit") to the impoverished without requiring collateral. Grameen Bank Project was born in the village of Jobra, Bangladesh, in 1976. In 1983 it was transformed into a formal bank under a special law passed for its creation. It is owned by the poor borrowers of the bank who are mostly women. It works exclusively for them. The organization and its founder, Muhammad Yunus, were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006. Its main objectives are: • To extend banking facilities to the poor men and women. • To eliminate the exploitation of the moneylenders. • To create opportunities for self-employment for the vast unutilized and under utilized manpower resources. • To bring the disadvantaged people within the framework of some organizational format, which they can understand and operate and can, find socio-political and economic strength through mutual support. Write a short note on the domestic politics of Nepal? Nepal was a Hindu kingdom in the past and then a constitutional monarchy till 2008. During this period a more open and responsive system of government was demanded by political parties and common people. But the king had full control on the government and expansion of democracy was restricted with the help of the army. In 1990, the king accepted the demand for a new democratic constitution but the democratic government had a troubled career. During 1990’s Maoists of Nepal succeeded in spreading their influence. The period witnessed violent conflict between the Maoist guerrillas and the armed forces of the king. In 2002, the king abolished the parliament thus ending the limited democracy that existed in Nepal. In April 2006, Nepal faced massive country wide pro democracy protests. The king was forced to restore the parliament that had been dissolved in 2002. The largely non violent movement was led by the Seven Party Alliances (SPA), the Maoists and social activists. Nepal's transition to democracy in not complete as it is still in the process of framing its constitution. Currently, Nepal is a republic with a multi-party system. Discuss the relations between India and Sri Lanka? Relations between India and Sri Lanka are about 2000 years old. Sri Lanka became independent in 1948. She established cordial relations with India. Both countries have adopted democratic government. There are many similarities between culture and languages of south Indians and Sri Lanka. Both are active members of Non-Alignment and the SAARC. India has signed a free trade agreement with Sri Lanka, which strengthened relations between the two countries. India’s help in post-tsunami reconstruction in Sri Lanka has also brought the two countries closer. However, despite the friendship and cordial relations, there were occasional tensions between India and Sri Lanka due to the ethnic conflict in the island nation. The Sri Lankan problem involved Tamils of Indian origin. The government of India tried to negotiate with the Sri Lankan government on the Tamil question. In 1987, the government of India got directly involved in the Sri Lankan-Tamil question. India signed an accord with Sri Lanka and sent troops to stabilise relations between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamils. Eventually, Indian Army was sent to fight with
the LTTE. The presence of Indian troops was also not liked much by the Sri Lankan government. They saw this as an attempt by India to interfere in their internal affairs. In 1989, Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) was pulled out of Sri Lanka without attaining its objective. In 2009, the 30 year long military campaign against the LTTE ended with the dismantling of LTTE. The focus of India- Sri Lanka relations now is trade and economic cooperation. Briefly discuss India-Pakistan conflicts? India and Pakistan soon after the partition got embroiled in a conflict over the fate of Kashmir. The Pakistani government claimed that Kashmir belonged to it. Wars between India and Pakistan in 1947-48 and 1965 failed to settle the matter. The 194748 war resulted in the division of the province into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) and the Indian province of Jammu and Kashmir. India’s conflict with Pakistanis also over strategic issues like the control of the Siachen glacier and over acquisition of arms. The arms race between two countries assumed a new character with both states acquiring nuclear weapons and missiles in the 1990s. Since then India and Pakistan seem to have built a military relationship in which the possibility of a direct and fullscale war has declined. The Indian government has blamed the Pakistan government for using a strategy of low-key violence by helping the Kashmiri militants with arms, training, money and protection to carry out terrorist strikes against India. Inter Services Intelligence (ISI), is alleged to be involved in various anti-India campaigns, operating secretly through Bangladesh & Nepal. The government of Pakistan, in turn, blames the Indian government for fomenting trouble in the provinces of Sindh and Balochistan. Describe the findings of the survey conducted to know the attitude of the people regarding democracy? The various countries of south Asia do not have the same kind of political systems. Despite the mixed record of the democratic experience, the survey showed that people in the countries of south Asian region share the aspiration for democracy. There is a widespread support for democracy in all these countries. Ordinary citizens, rich as well as poor and belonging to different religions, view the idea of democracy positively and support the institutions of representative democracy. This is evident from the prodemocracy movement in Nepal which became a republic with a multi-party system in 2008. Bhutan also completed its transition from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy with a multi-party system in 2008. People of the region prefer democracy over any other form of government and think that it is most suitable for their country. These are significant developments, for it was earlier believed that democracy could flourish and find support only in prosperous countries of the world. Relations between nations are guided by their geopolitical interests. Do you agree? Give example to support your answer. Geopolitics is the relationship between geography and politics that guides the foreign policy of countries. Geopolitical theorists have sought to demonstrate that factors such as the acquisition of natural boundaries, access to sea routes and control of strategically important areas and resources play a vital role in the determination of foreign policies of nations. One example of this is the India-Myanmar relations. India has always been committed to the promotion of democracy domestically and internationally. However, India’s growing relations with Myanmar’s military junta have faced criticisms from various corners. Realising that Myanmar (one of India’s closest neighbours and a major source of natural gas) was increasingly under China’s orbit; India reversed its policy of isolation and has now begun to expand economic relations with the junta. The two
countries signed a number of treaties on counter terrorism, development projects, science and technology and information cooperation. This is a clear example of how India’s foreign policy and its relations with neighbours are guided by its geo-political interest in the region. South Asian experience of democracy has expanded the global imagination of democracy. How? • South Asia has a mixed record of democratic experience. The people in all these countries share the aspiration for democracy. Various countries of the region do not have the same political systems. South Asia is still in the process of state-building and nation-making. • Sri Lanka and India have successfully operated as a democratic system since their independence. • Pakistan and Bangladesh have experienced both civilian and military rulers. Bangladesh is now gaining the status of a stable democracy. • Bhutan made a transition from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy in 2008. • Maldives was a Sultanate till 1968 when it was transformed into a republic with a presidential form of government. In 2005, the Parliament of Maldives introduced a multi-party system. • Nepal was a Hindu kingdom and monarchy till 2006. Nepal’s transition to democracy is not complete as it is still in the process of framing its constitution. Critically analyse the relation between India and Bangladesh. In 1972, both the countries signed a ‘Treaty of Friendship and Peace’. An IndoBangladesh Trade Pact was also signed. India and Bangladesh enjoy extensive and wide-ranging relations covering a number of areas of mutual interest. Both the countries have enjoyed traditionally close geographical, historical, cultural and ethnic ties, which is growing from strength to strength. However, there are certain issues that had led to deteriorating of their relations. Areas of agreement 1. India played a central role in the independence of Bangladesh. 19,000 Indian soldiers died for the cause of an independent Bangladesh. India sheltered over 10 million refugees who were fleeing the atrocities of the occupying West Pakistan Army. 2. Bangladesh was faced with an economic crisis after independence. India gave large amounts of aid to Bangladesh. In recent years India provides co-operation and assistance during annual natural calamities. 3. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s first foreign visit as PM and the Founding Father of this newly born nation was to India and it was then decided Indo-Bangladesh relations would be guided by principles of democracy, socialism, nonalignment and opposition to colonialism and racism. Area of Disagreement 1. The major area of contention has been the construction and operation of the Farakka Barrage by India to increase water supply in the river Hoogly. Bangladesh insists that it does not receive a fair share of the Ganga waters, and on the other hand, it gets flooded during the monsoons when India releases excess waters.
2. There have also been disputes regarding the transfer of Teen Bigha Corridor to Bangladesh. Part of Bangladesh is surrounded by the Indian state of West Bengal. 3. The Sharing of Ganges Waters was also a matter of dispute. Discuss the relations between India and Sri Lanka? Relations between India and Sri Lanka are about 2000 years old. Sri Lanka became independent in 1948. She established cordial relations with India. Both countries have adopted democratic government. India and Sri Lanka are immediate neighbours. There are many similarities between culture and languages of south Indians and Sri Lanka. Both have adopted the policy of non-alignment. Both are active members of NonAlignment and the SAARC. India has signed a free trade agreement with Sri Lanka, which strengthened relations between the two countries. India’s help in post-tsunami reconstruction in Sri Lanka has also brought the two countries closer. However, despite the friendship and cordial relations, there have been occasional tensions between India and Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan problem involves people of Indian origin, and there is considerable pressure from the Tamil people in India to the effect that the Indian government should protect the interests of Tamils in Sri Lanka. The government of India has from time to time tried to negotiate with the Sri Lankan government on the Tamil question. In 1987, the government of India for the first time got directly involved in the Sri Lankan-Tamil question. India signed an accord with Sri Lanka and sent troops to stabilise relations between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamils. Eventually, Indian Army was sent to fight with the LTTE. The presence of Indian troops was also not liked much by the Sri Lankan government. They saw this as an attempt by India to interfere in the internal affairs of Sri Lanka. In 1989, Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) was pulled out of Sri Lanka without attaining its objective. Describe the causes of conflict between India and Pakistan? India and Pakistan soon after the partition got embroiled in a conflict over the fate of Kashmir. The Pakistani government claimed that Kashmir belonged to them. Wars between India and Pakistan in 1947-48 and 1965 failed to settle the matter. The 194748 war resulted in the division of the province into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) and the Indian province of Jammu and Kashmir divided by the Line of Control. In 1971, India won a decisive war against Pakistan but the Kashmir issue remained unsettled. India’s conflict with Pakistan is also over strategic issues like the control of the Siachen glacier and over acquisition of arms. The arms race between two countries assumed a new character with both states acquiring nuclear weapons and missiles to deliver such arms against each other in the 1990s. In 1998, India conducted nuclear explosion in Pokharan. Pakistan responded within a few days by carrying out nuclear tests in the Chagai Hills. Since then India and Pakistan seem to have built a military relationship in which the possibility of a direct and fullscale war has declined. But both the governments continue to be suspicious of each other. The Indian government has blamed the Pakistan government for using a strategy of low-key violence by helping the Kashmiri militants with arms, training, money and protection to carry out terrorist strikes against India. The Indian government also believes that Pakistan had aided the pro-Khalistani militants with arms and ammunitions during the period 1985-1995. Its spy agency, Inter Services Intelligence (ISI), is alleged to be involved in various anti-India campaigns in
India’s northeast, operating secretly through Bangladesh and Nepal. The government of Pakistan, in turn, blames the Indian government and its security agencies for fomenting trouble in the provinces of Sindh and Baluchistan. Describe China and South East Asia relations. "Peaceful co-existence" is the main principle in China-South Asia relations. Land and water, mountains and rivers link China and South Asia. Unlike East Asia and South East Asia and China, Chinese and most of South Asian ties are contiguous, more natural and comprehensive. The civilization of China and South Asia thus holds common source of inspiration with a profound degree of continuity. In short, geo-politically charged neighbourhood in an intense natural and spiritual sense is what stands out in China-South Asia relations. China continued to cultivate ties with small South Asian countries independently. It supported independence of these countries, and their independent decision-making. After 1962 border war with India, the importance of independence of the countries in South Asia-particularly of those small and non-nuclear power countries-had increased for China. China's rapid economic growth has its neighbours change their perception on China. The shift from a "China threat" to "China opportunity" theory opens the alternative to explore the benefits that can be draw from the gigantic China's market-leading to deeper and inner natural and spiritual bonds with China The SAARC member states tries to expand and intensify their social and economic interaction with China at sub-regional level.
