www.ignou-ac.

in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

N
1
www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in1

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

ASSIGNMENT SOLUTIONS GUIDE (2014-2015)

M.P.S.E.-1
India & The World
Disclaimer/Special Note: These are just the sample of the Answers/Solutions to some of the Questions given in the
Assignments. These Sample Answers/Solutions are prepared by Private Teacher/Tutors/Auhtors for the help and Guidance
of the student to get an idea of how he/she can answer the Questions of the Assignments. We do not claim 100% Accuracy
of these sample Answers as these are based on the knowledge and cabability of Private Teacher/Tutor. Sample answers
may be seen as the Guide/Help Book for the reference to prepare the answers of the Question given in the assignment. As
these solutions and answers are prepared by the private teacher/tutor so the chances of error or mistake cannot be denied.
Any Omission or Error is highly regretted though every care has been taken while preparing these Sample Answers/
Solutions. Please consult your own Teacher/Tutor before you prepare a Particular Answer & for uptodate and exact
information, data and solution. Student should must read and refer the official study material provided by the university.
SECTION I
Q. 1. Critically examine Indias initiatives to strengthen arms control and disarmament.
Ans. India is always in favour of disarmament, nuclear disarmament in specific. India is a peace-loving nation which
has world peace and disarmament as its main agenda in its foreign policy. There is always a fear in the world being
destroyed by nuclear weapons. India was always abided to the global disarmament policies and it is always concerned
about the growing arms race and rise in nuclear power. As a responsible nation India has suggested many important
proposals to stop the arms race. Some of the main suggestions are as follows:
In 1954, India proposed stopping of all nuclear tests till a comprehensive treaty was signed.
In 1964, India suggested that upgradation of weapons and distribution of weapons should be banned simultaneously.
In 1974, India suggested the prevention of use or the threat of use of nuclear weapons as it was a crime against humanity.
In 1982 India suggested the prevention of nuclear weapons usage, a stoppage of further production of nuclear
weapons, stoppage of all nuclear tests, commencement of negotiations for total disarmament and information to
public on the dangers of nuclear warfare.
In 1984, India along with five other countries formed a five continent six nation peace initiative. This was formed
to stop testing production and deployment of nuclear weapons.
India is a part of the Geneva Protocol of 1925, The Partial Test Ban Treaty of 1963, Outer Space Treaty of 1967,
The Seabed Treaty of 1971, The Biological Convention Weapons of 1972 and the Chemical Weapons Convention
of 1993. India has always believed that for any agreement to be successful it should be fair to all the parties
involved. It is because of this reason, India refused to sign the NPT and CTBT. Many other non-nuclear countries
also did not accept the treaty whole-heartedly. Their main concern were the treaty imposed safeguards on the nonweapon countries only. The treaty gave the right of nuclear countries to continue with testing for commercial
purposes. The treaty was not clear in the responsibilities of the nuclear countries. The treaty also did not look after
the security requirements of the non-nuclear countries.
The CTBT was signed in 1996 to restrict the upgradation of nuclear weapons and transfer of nuclear weapons. The
CTBT banned all explosions (nuclear). By doing this it was trying to stop the development of new nuclear weapons. This
would have contributed to the process of disarmament and have helped in peace and security in the world. India refused
to sign it because the CTBT did not address the issue of a fixed time frame for global nuclear disarmament. India felt that
the five nuclear weapon countries should first agree on a time table for destruction of all nuclear weapons.
Indias Nuclear Tests and Policy of Disarmament
In 1954, Pandit Nehru made his stand clear on nuclear disarmament. India felt that a ban on nuclear test will help in
stopping the arms race. This would eventually lead to an agreement on disarmament. By the end of 1956 the Soviet Union
and India proposed a separate agreement to ban all nuclear testing which is done without international verification. But
the Western countries negotiated on this issue. Eventually, the Partial Test Ban Treaty was signed. India expressed the
concern that the nuclear countries were not subjecting their nuclear installations for necessary safeguard checks. This
concern was projected during the debates on the NPT. The NPT was rejected by India due to the fact that it was unfair to
the countries which did not process nuclear weapons.

N
2

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in2

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

During the debate of the CTBT India made its stand on disarmament very clear. India said that to prevent the spread
of nuclear weapons it was necessary that a fixed timeframe be made for destroying all nuclear weapons. But the CTBT
allowed the nuclear countries to continue their research on nuclear weapons without actual explosions. This was not
agreed to by India. It felt that it would not help in nuclear disarmament.
On 11th and 13th May, 1998 India conducted a series of nuclear tests at Pokhran. India then announced to the world that
it will maintain the bare minimum weapons required to defend itself. This will also discourage other countries from attacking
it. India felt that it did not need any further nuclear testing and it voluntarily agreed to stoppage of further nuclear tests. India
also said that it will not be first to strike a country in case of nuclear war. The Indian nuclear doctrine was made public on
17th August, 1999. It explained the fact that security of India was essential for Indias development. It also highlighted the
fact that in the absence of a global policy on nuclear disarmament, India had to take all steps to defend itself. This doctrine
also explained the Nofirst use policy and the placement of nuclear weapons under civilian control.
Disarmament and Development
Many studies conducted by reputed people like Olaf Palmes and Inga Thorsson clearly brought out that a failure to
achieve disarmament has lead to lack of development in developing countries. This is because a substantial amount of
money is being spent on maintaining and producing nuclear weapons.
Disarmament was always seen as preventive the possibility of war. It was felt that arms race, if left uncontrolled
would finally lead to war. So it was necessary to have arms control, CSBMS and conflict management to prevent war.
India believed that to maintain peace the roots of the problems should be identified and resolved first. India lays
emphasis on resolving the problems rather than managing the problems. This approach of India can be seen in different
fields. In the political field India gave its support for freedom struggles. In the social field it displayed its concern for
social justice. Similarly in the international field it explained the fact that disarmament was closely linked to development.
Q. 2. Examine the role of MNCs in contemporary international economic relations.
Ans. The role of MNCs in the economic growth of a nation is very significant. The MNCs play a very important role
in international trade. The MNCs are located in various parts of the world. But their Head Quarters are in the rich
developed countries. These MNCs are responsible for the transfer of capital, human resources and technology within the
country where they are based. Because of the MNCs the developing countries enjoy the employment opportunities
provided by the MNCs. The MNCs also bring investment from the rich developed countries are slowly becoming an
agriculture-based economy to an industrialised based economy. On the other hand the MNCs bring in huge profits to the
rich developed countries like the US, UK, Japan etc. MNCs have also been practically free from the problem of politics
and the control of the government. At the same time they are also responsible for loss of employment to the rich countries.
Though the loss is minimal the gains provided by the MNCs are very significant.
Records of the MNCs in the last few decades show that more than half of the world industrial production is controlled
by a few MNCs. The number of foreign subsidies of the MNCs in the US have been growing significantly every decade.
Most of these MNCs are controlled by the United States, UK and Germany. An analysis of the MNCs reveal that the United
States had more than 25% of all the MNCs in the world. The third world countries require the investment of the MNCs for
their economic growth, but at the same time they also feel that the MNCs are having a control over them. Even though
MNCs are not part of the government, they bring in huge profits to the countries of origin. This in turn helps the developed
countries to control the economies of the developing countries. The role of MNCs can be analyse in two parts, the impact on
MNCs on host nation and the impact on the home nation.
Impact of MNCs on Host Nation
The MNCs help in international trade, transfer of technology and development of managerial capabilities. The
MNCs believed that their organization has been responsible for bringing in investment to the poor third world countries
and it has been beneficial for them. The following points emerge from the thinking of the MNCs.
MNCs provide the investment for developing nations. They give better salaries to the workers, they pay more
taxes to the local government and have a better management system than locals.
MNCs provide better social and welfare facilities to their workers.
MNCs help in the transfer of technology from the rich industrialized countries to the poor underdeveloped countries.
However the third world countries have a few points sagainst the MNCs. The third world countries agreed to the fact
that the MNCs provide jobs and other benefits but they are provided at a very high cost. They also feel that the natural
resources of their country have been heavily exploited. They feel that their technology transfer through the MNCs is not
done completely so as to ensure that the rich countries can control the poor countries.
MNCs have been found guilty of making huge profits in third world countries and not reinvesting back in the
countries again. They always send the profits to their home countries. The MNCs charge very high amount for transfer

N
3

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in3

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

of technology. They also send the raw materials to one poor country to another poor country for production of finished
goods. After that they sell these products among the poor countries only at a higher price. Because of this kind of
transaction in which the MNC is involved everywhere, they are able to sell their products at a very high price. This has a
very harmful effect on the developing countries.
MNCs have been accused of creating wealth only for a select lot of people. They have brought wealth and career
opportunities only for their workers and not for the entire country. Because of these reasons the third world countries feel
that MNCs have increased their dependence on developed countries.
Impact of MNCs on the Home Countries
The MNCs have been criticized and praised in their countries by many agencies. The MNCs use their third world
countries for setting up of industries. The reason for this is the cheap labour provided by the third world countries. The labour
unions of the developed countries feel that they have lost because of the transfer of job opportunities. They feel that
unemployment has risen because of this reason. The MNCs feel that it is cheaper to produce the same goods in an undeveloped
country because of cheap labour. The governments of undeveloped countries use these MNCs for their foreign policies.
The MNCs generate huge profits by their operation in third world countries. In case the home government has strict
policies on credit then these MNCs have the option of shifting their base to another country. This will help in less taxes
paid. Also the MNCs can delay the payment of profits back to their country. This created problems for the home country
especially in the formulation of foreign policies towards third world countries.
The growth of MNCs has been very significant. They are not political in nature and also do not belong to the
government. However they control a very large part of the economy. This has become a big problem for the government,
as the MNCs do not come under their control.
The growth of these MNCs in the past few decades have been significant. They have provided economic growth to
the underdeveloped countries and also provided project for the rich developed countries. Though there are a few points
against the MNCs the overall view is that the MNCs are necessary for international trade and economic prosperity.
However the MNCs should not be given a free hand. Mechanisms should be put in place by which the operation of these
MNCs can be monitored closely. This will prevent any malpractice taking place. Any delay in setting up of such mechanism
will result in the MNCs taking control of the government.
Q. 3. Describe the major developments in India-China relations since the 1970s.
Ans. Both India and China are lands with rich culture, glorious past and oldest civilizations in the entire world. From
early days India had trade relations, spiritual and religious ties with China. Even history boasts about India and Chinas
relations and both the civilizations were understood by the help of ancient scholars and intellects who travelled to the
other country or who came as pilgrims. Chinese scholars who visited India were Fa Hien, Sung Yun, Hsuan-Tsan etc. and
ancient Indians who visited China were Kumarajiva, Jinagupta and Bodhidharma.
Not only during ancient period both India and China have, many similarities in modern history too. India gained its
independent in 1947 and China became a Communist country in 1949. India and China have never been thick pals or
bitter enemies. There were ups and downs in their relationship. They were friends in 50s, fought war in 60s, maintained
distant ties in 70s and had a neutral policy in 80s. The end of the cold war in 1991 helped both China and India a great
deal to renew their friendship. After 2000, the new millenium saw both the countries maturing and trying to build friendly
relationships setting aside their border dispute.
Beginning of Friendship
Though India adopted a non-alignment stand after independence China took Soviet Unions side. Prime Minister
Jawaharlal Nehru saw to that it did not affect India and Chinas relationship. India being a democratic country welcomed
Communist China in October, 1949. It was a non-communist nation which recognized Peoples Republic of China and
supported Chinas representation in the UN.
China forcibly occupied Tibet in 1950, India opposed to this action India also commented that it was because of the
influence of imperialist countries like USA, China was also doing it. Nehru always wished friendship and cooperation with
China and when Chau- En-Lai visited India he was given a grand red carpet welcome. Moreover in 1954 both the countries
signed an agreement related to trading in Tibet Region of China. This agreement was based on the five principles or
Panchsheel. After that Nehru visited China and emphasized the need for a strong relation between India and China which
would enhance peace and stability in the Asian continent. When African and Asian countries had a conference in Bandung
in Indonesia Nehru and Chau-En-Lai met again. They arrived at a common approach to deal with the issues in international
politics. Rather the two countries worked out a plan to conduct themselves with the major blocs during the cold war. China
with the help of India gained respect and goodwill of all non-aligned countries. India also helped China to become a member
of the UN, along with other developing countries. Critics blasted Nehru for supporting China to get into the UN but what he

N
4

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in4

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

did proved advantageous to India and there was no disturbance in the North-Eastern borders over a decade.
Bitterness in the Relationship
India and Chinas relationship went for a toss due to the Kashmir issue and border issue. The Panchsheel agreement
signed between them and the Bandung Conference principles were forgotten and there was a stress in their relationship.
China raised the border issue by not abiding by the McMohan line, but instead argued that both the countries did not have
any such agreement regarding their boundary. The second issue was regarding the Aksai-Chin region of Kashmir which
China claimed that it belonged to its Sinkiang province. Thirdly, the most irritating move China made was questioning
whether Kashmir belonged to India or not. It made toco issues out of Kashmir first it regarded Kashmir as a troubled area
and secondly it supported self-determination in Kashmir. To add fuel to fire it constructed road in Aksai-Chin area of
Kashmir and kept on instigating India and atlast these things led to the Sino-India border war in 1962 where China took
the initiative to attack India.
Nehru was a respected Prime Minister in Indiawho always had a positive approach to China. When this border war
happened Nehru was subjected to criticism and his image was at stake in India and outside. He was blasted for not being
a realistic and for following idealistic approach even when the countrys image was at stake. Indias image and reputation
as a developed country was highly affected. Nehru could not stick to his non-aligned policy because India was so desperate
for help to defend itself and later on it had to ask for Americas military help. This war had created lots of damage in the
Indian minds when India got defeated. The Indian soldiers lost pride in them, their morale came down and they lived with
the trauma of losing to China, moreover India had lost a vast area to China which was almost 38,000 square kms.
Freezing and Unfreezing of Ties
India and China snapped ties with each other and there were no diplomatic ties between them for next fourteen years
after the border war of 1962. Then again in 1976 the friction thawed and they resumed their diplomatic relationship again.
In between during 1962 the year after the border war China and Pakistan signed a border agreement. Kashmir was a bone
of contention between China, Pakistan and India. Pakistan occupied Kashmir was illegally ceded (transferred) to China.
In 1964, China tested its nuclear power and Chinas war on India is instigated Pakistan and moreover its closeness to
China all pooled together inspired Pakistan to go for a second war against India.
India expected that China will definitely join Pakistan against its war with India but China supported Pakistan from
outside. It supplied war equipments and other materials and also manually supported them. During that time the SinoSoviet relation was not so good and the China-America relationship was not so great hence China stayed away from the
India-Pakistan war.
Pakistan was very badly defeated and East Pakistan emerged as a country called Bangladesh. India had regained the
honour which was lost during the 1962 Indo-Sino border war and India suddenly climbed on top of the power ladder in
South Asia. India also had all round development in agricultural and industrial sector. To top it all Indias nuclear weapon
test of 1974 help India regain back its confidence and boosted Indias image outside. Cold war scenario took a turn with
the end of Vietnam war and the whole security scene of the world changed.
After Indias success Prime Minister Indira Gandhi initiated measures to bring back normalcy in India and Chinas
relationship. Initially, it started with reviving diplomatic ties with China which it had stopped for fourteen years. Later on
K.R. Narayanan, was appointed as Indias ambassador to China. Indias effort to normalise the relationship was very
evident. This was followed by the Janta Party which succeeded the Congress Government and Prime Minister Morarjee
Desai also took sincere efforts. The Minister of External Affairs of the Janta Party Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee visited China
and got a positive feedback from the Communist Party of China. Deng Xiaoping introduced many reforms which was
favourable to India. There was several positive factors which led to improvement in India and Chinas ties.
India and China agreed to settle down their border dispute through bilateral talks. Hence officials of both the countries
met to settle the border dispute without any differences. Later on Mrs. Gandhi and the Chinese Premier met to resolve the
border differences. They had realised that this will not only do good to China and India but it will lead to peace and
stability in the Asian continent. Later on the Chinese Premier Mr. Hua Guafeng visited India and gave an impetus to SinoIndia relationship. After the seventh round of border talks it completely thawed the hatred between both the countries and
settled things amicably even though the final everlasting solution could not be arrived.
Increased Momentum
Inspite of restoration of diplomatic relation between China and India and several rounds of negotiation regarding
border dispute there were few unwanted incidents happening every now and then. Even after the seventh round of talks
during negotiations Chinese armed men entered illegally in the Indian border of Sum-dorang Chu Valley in 1987.
Rajiv Gandhi changed the entire scenario and brought about commendable changes in global relations. When Soviet
got disintegrated and Mikhail Gorbachev came to power there was a cordial and cooperative relationship between these

N
5

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in5

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

countries. During the end of the cold war the super powers were in lime light and in the meantime India and China were
engaged in resolving their relationship. As a first step toward cordial relationship Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi visited
China in 1988. It was the first time since 34 years an Indian Prime Minister visited China. This was followed by several
visits by the Indian and Chinese leaders.
A joint working group was setup by both the countries to reduce tension in the border. Both the leaders realised and
strengthen the importance of a mutual cooperative relationship. Subsequently both the countries signed several agreements
related to science and technology. They also planned several educational programmes and student exchange programmes
together. The political equation between China and India changes initialy when the Chinese Vice-premier visited in 1989
and thereafter when the Chinese premier Li peng visited India again in 1991.
Post-Cold War Developments
During Prime Minister Narsimha Raos visit to China in 1993 the entire global scenario had changed. By 1993 the
Soviet Union got disintegrated which led to the end of the cold war. Hence nations which were alliances were looking out
for a different foreign policy with regard to the changing global scenario. The same applied to India and China who were
in the same situation.
During Narsimha Raos visit an agreement was made regarding the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to maintain peace
and harmony. The next year Jiang Zemin, the Chinese Premier visited India and signed four vital agreements in various
fields like science, technology education etc. Above all both the countries came to a consensus and Confidence Building
Measures (CBM) were arrived between the two countries. At the wake of Indias nuclear tests in 1998 there was again a
rift in the Indo-China relations. Since America was also furious Prime Minister Vajpayeee had sent a letter to America to
pacify them. There were several justifications given to cool down America and to explain the need for the nuclear test.
The main reason specified was, since India felt that China is a threat to India which is in the process of expanding is
nuclear weapons India had to the test. This letter leaked out which annoyed China. Moreover then Defence Minister
George Fernandes too in his statement mentioned China as a major threat to India made them even more furious.
India felt the need to pacify China. In July 2000, the MEA Mr. Jaswant Singh was sent on a peace mission where he
assured that India did not mean to degrade or malign Chinas image. Later on things began to look normal and Chinese
President Zhu Rangji visited India in 2002. It was once again emphasised that India did not consider China as a threat and
there was no need for China also to consider India a threat. They arrived at an understanding and made a joint agreement
to keep a check on terrorism. Both the countries know that it was time for both the countries to concentrate on their
economic growth. Hence to enhance this they agreed for economic cooperation or trade between both the countries. The
relationship between both the countries strengthened when Prime Minister Vajpayee and Defence Minister George
Fernandes paid a visit to China. This was considered as very vital and both the countries promised that they would take
precaution when issues regarding border disputes are discussed.
SECTION II
Q. 4. (a) Political parties in foreign policy decision-making.
Ans. India is a democratic country where there are a humpty number of political parties exist. Normally the party
which is successful in polls becomes the ruling party and the one to lose in a close margin acts as an opposition party. The
opposition party influences the foreign policy affairs in a great way and their views and reactions are taken into account
by the government. Whatever statements made by the opposition party in a foreign policy issue will be expected to be
amended when they come to power. Take for example, as an opposition party proposed to curb Bangladeshis coming into
India in search of job. This issue will be expected to be implemented by the party once they become a ruling party. The
essence of democracy is that the political parties have to fulfil the promises they had made otherwise they are sure to be
dethroned by the people. It is just the opposite in Communist countries where the party had the sole power to decide about
the foreign affairs. In India, even through there are a humpty number of political parties only powerful parties can influence policy-making decisions.
Even during pre-independent India time political parties existed which were curbed by the Britishers who then ruled
India. Obviously they controlled Indias foreign policy issues too and the political parties were powerless. Even then
these parties tried to influence the foreign policies by playing the role of pressure groups. They did not have a great role
but influenced policy-decisions vaguely.
Each party had different ideologies and they stood and worked for it. The Congress were in favour of democratic
view of India, socialist parties favoured socialism, Communist party formed communistic approach, religious parties like
Hindu Mahasabha was in favour of Hindus and obviously the Muslim League looked after the interests of Muslims. Even
though they had differences in their ideology they all had anti-imperialistic policies, fought for colonization and opposed
Europe which tried to control Asian Continent and were against apartheid in South Africa.

N
6

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in6

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

After Independence the Congress formed the government and fought against imperialism, colonialism and racism.
The Congress Working Committee session laid down the objectives or goals of the party. Hence this was the base of
Indias foreign policy during those years. The main objectives were to work towards world peace and fight against racism,
imperialism and colonialism . The Congress party aimed for the freedom of nations suffering under colonialism, especially
the continents of Asia and Africa. Indias foreign policy aimed in having a cordial relationship with all the countries and
cooperate with them. India did not want to follow bloc-politics which makes the world bi-polar which leads to damage
and destruction. Indias expectation is to freely decide on its foreign affairs and to work for the economic growth and
prosperity. It should be in close proximity and work with the United Nations which works for World Peace and Freedom.
The Congress party worked under the above said principles till the 80s .
There is no fixed party system in India. Many political parties have governed India like the Congress was in power
from Indias independence till the year 1977. Later on it was back to power in 1980 and was in power till 1996. They
discussed and debated Indias foreign policy affairs and passed resolutions.
When India became independent there was cold war taking place between the two super powers the United States and
Soviet Union. Hence, our Prime Minister Nehru during that time made non-alignment as his foreign policy. He did not
want to join bloc parties hence the Congress party followed non-alignment. This was accepted by all other parties of India
during that period because it was the best option.
Till 1977, Congress ruled India after that the Janata Government took over and Morarji Desai was the Prime Minister.
Even though he opposed the Congresss idea of non-alignment, there was no other option but to follow the same ideals
laid by the Congress party. To top it up non-alignment was their main agenda of Indias foreign policy during that time.
Congress party was very loyal and faithful to the principle of non-alignment and insisted it in its party meetings.
When Soviet Union broke in 1991 there was no scope for bipolar or bloc policies. Hence, the credibility of non-alignment
was under the scanner. During that time Mr. Narsimha Rao was the Prime Minister and he spoke in favour of nonalignment in a meeting conducted in Triupati in 1993. Thereafter in 1996 the United Front Government took over and
followed the Congress principle of non-alignment. But there was a twist in 1998 when BJP party came to power and nonalignment was given a miss in their agenda.
The BJP government was more into strengthening Indias nuclear power and the party which ruled before called the
Jan Sangh had the main agenda. Non-alignment was forgotten and BJP wanted to fulfil its promises made in its election
manifesto. They thought Indias national security is strengthened by strengthening the Indian forces. In fact, it wanted to
give a nuclear teeth to the Indian forces. In 1998, the National Democratic Alliance was formed with BJP and 12 of its
allies. They promised to install a National Security Council and it was done by Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee who was the
then Prime Minister. It wanted the council to take its first strategic Defence Review. After the Disintegration of Soviet
Union it was the United States who watched Indias actions like a hawk. US had dilemma whether India would conduct
nuclear tests and the NDA had done it in May, 1998 in Pokharan. It tested its nuclear weapon and gave a shock to the US.
The United States expected that India would conduct the nuclear tests after the assured strategic Defence review by the
NDA government. The NDA government executed the nuclear test which was a preplanned one. India defended its action
by stating that it was done with a sole motive to strengthen Indias unity and security and also ensured that the nuclear
policy will be revised and the nuclear weapons will be added to it.
Party Manifestos
Each political party assures to fulfil various promises if they are selected and when they come to power. Their preelection promises are called manifestos and their is no dearth of these made by various parties. In the United States it
is called the platform. Once the elections are over these policies are gone with the wind. But these often influence the
foreign policy formation. The promises made by the parties are raised by the political activists and they look forward
for peoples view regarding it.
During the 1980 elections Congress (I) had mentioned in their election manifesto that if they come to power they will
have a diplomatic relation with Kampuchea where the Heng Smarin Government was set up by Vietnam. Congress (I)
won and Indira Gandhi became the Prime Minister. The opposition party which was the Communist Party of India (CPI)
asked the Congress to keep up the promise made. This matter was taken up in the Parliament by their MPs and the
Congress (I) had to recognize the Heng Samarian Government in Kampuchea.
During the 1998 election the BJP partys election manifesto was to set by the National Security Council to look after
the foreign policy affairs. This was the promise of every party during the period. But the National Security Council was
originally Janta Dals body which was headed by V.P. Singh. When they came to power experts and security analysts
insisted that the NSC be formed and promise to be fulfilled. The Janata Dal under V.P. Singh formed the National Security
Council in 1990. Though it was one of the things mentioned by the Congress in their election manifesto they failed to

N
7

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in7

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

establish a NSC, even after ruling for five years. Thereafter in 1996 the United Front government came to power and
followed the Congress to not to form a NSC.
Then it was the turn of the BJP led government which had its allies, hence it was called a coalition government. This
government was in favour of forming a National Security Council which would study and discuss the threats to our
country which may be military, economic or political in nature. They in fact wanted this agency to study and help the
government in actions also. This promise had to be fulfilled because association which were in favour of NSC pressurised
BJP to form a NSC in November, 1998. It was formed by Atal Behari Vajpayee in order to have a sound security policy for
our country. In the case of parties which are newly formed or cannot gain majority seats in the Parliament insist on their
views and suggestions from outside.
Public Opinion and Parties
If the political parties want a particular foreign policy in practice it tries to push it through public opinion. Political
parties like the Congress (O) and the Jan Sangh/BJP were in favour of India having diplomatic ties with Israel. The then
Congress (O) leader and the leader of the Janata Party in fact had a secret meeting with Moshe Dayan who was the Israeli
Defence Minister during that time, because they wanted diplomatic relations with Israel. This policy was a reality when
the Congress (I) Party under the Prime Ministership of Narsimha Rao started have diplomatic relations with Israel.
If an opposition party wants a foreign policy in their favour or want that to be implemented then they create a public
opinion. Like specified earlier some parties fought for diplomatic ties with Israel. But here Muslim dominated parties like
the Muslim League and other upcoming parties were opposed to the diplomatic ties with Israel. They had a logic it was
against Islam because of due to the fact that Israel has a ongoing conflict with Muslims of Palestine and West Bank, the
Muslim parties in India has always opposed any diplomatic relationship between India and Israel.
Political parties are full of power hungry people and everything done there is power-oriented. During their campaign
in case of an election, the political parties boast about their success in managing foreign affairs. It has an exception, till
date it has not happened that a political party has lost or won because it supported a foreign policy. A strong political party
has specialized unit to debate, discuss and study the foreign affairs. Based on the research they hold meeting and thereafter
their campaign strategy is made. This is how the foreign policies of the political parties are made.
(b) India ASEAN relations during the cold war.
Ans. In 1967, ten countries formed the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) with an objective to
enhance trade and investment. ASEAN countries had good economic growth and wealth and they were in search of new
pastures for trade and investment. They zeroed in India and Vietnam to be their economic partners and as their political
and security issues both the countries were found to be perfect. It was during this period Vietnam and India were trying to
bring about changes in their economy through liberalization, privatization and globalization policies. Prime Minister
Narsimha Rao and Finance Minister Manmohan Singh took the initiatives in India. India encouraged foreign Investments
through tax-free incentives. These steps were appreciated by ASEAN who wanted to strengthen its ties with India.
ASEAN and India became partners in varied sections like trade, investment, science and technology, since it was
based on individual section it was called sectorial partnership. This started during 1992 and progressed many other areas
like economic, security and political partnerships were preferred by ASEAN. India was honoured ASEAN in several
ways, the former was invited for conferences and forums exclusively for ASEAN countries. This was possible because
both shared similar interests and perceptions.
In order to have concrete organisation to ASEAN-India cooperation the ASEAN-India cooperation committee was
formed. A working group was formed to analyse the areas of cooperation.The results given by the joint working committee
suggested that India had advanced in science and technology, information technology and bio-technology in particular.
Since it had the potential Indias cooperation was expected in agriculture, health care, food processing, electronics,
communication and service sectors.
In order to develop cooperation in various fields of trade, investment, environmental protection, solar energy etc. the
India-ASEAN fund was started. The ASEAN secretariat was in charge of alloting funds and it was supervised by a Joint
Management Committee. A ASEAN-New Delhi Committee was also formed included diplomats of all the countries. A
scholarship was announced on behalf of Indian Government by Indias foreign secretary. Both India and ASEAN can give
doctoral fellowship to six months in the field of science and technology. ASEAN and Indian leaders and intellectuals
were invited to give guest lectures in India and in ASEAN countries. This was done with an aim to help understand the
objectives of foreign policy of both the partners.
Q. 5. (a) Significance of BIMSTEC
Ans. Two South-East Asian countries like Myanmar and Thailand and three South Asian countries like India,

N
8

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in8

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

Bangladesh and Sri Lanka formed BIMSTEC. The objective of this group was economic cooperation in the field of trade,
investment, tourism, infrastructure, energy etc. In addition to this proposals considered were Asian Highway Links, Asian
Railway Network and a Natural Gas Pipeline Grid in the Bay of Bengal. BIMSTEC wanted to exploit the natural and
human resources available abundantly in these regions.
The Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) wanted a economic
forum that has both private and public sector participation of the member countries. It aimed to achieve opinion regarding
trade, finance and economic cooperation. Main thrust was on clothing, drugs, medicines, gems, IT, horticulture etc. The
Economic and Social Commission for Asia-Politic (ESCAP) meeting was held in Bangkok. This aimed in bringing
private sector in BIMSTEC.
Chamber of Commerce and Industry was formed an annual meetings were conducted in BIMSTEC. Several economic
cooperation measures were taken and supervised by the Economic and Trade Ministers. In addition a BIMSTEC Senior
Economic Officials Committee (SEOC) was formed. Bangladesh was given responsibility of Trade and Investment, India
was allotted technology, Thailand looked after transport and communication, Myanmar was incharge of Energy and Sri
Lanka was offered Tourism and Fisheries.
BIMSTEC wanted to have a free trade arrangement. In addition to above mentioned sectors certain other sectors like
rubber, spices, coconut, tea, coffee, automotive industries and processed food also were enlisted for future cooperation.
The BIMSTEC ministerial meeting held in Dhaka stressed the need for an economic forum in order to have economic
cooperation and progress. It was also ensured that the forum would be operational before the next meeting. They stressed
the importance of transport and communication connection to have overall growth in other fields.
The BIMSTEC meeting in Myanmar in 2001 wanted the think tanks of member countries to work in cooperation.
They were looking for services of finance for the Mekong-Ganga cooperation. Cooperation in the form of culture, transport,
tourism and communication were emphasised. The Mekong-Ganga cooperation is a road built links Thailand to India and
goes between Myanmar. MCG is vital because Mekong is an area between India and China and plays a major role in
Indias security and trade. Hence the first India-ASEAN summit paid attention to the countries in the Mekong area. India
gave Cambodia a credit of $10 million and signed agreements relating to trade, education and maintaining an old Cambodian
temple called Tam Pram. Tarrif concessions were given to Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.
(b) Realist approach to Indian foreign policy
Ans. Realism was dominating Indias foreign policy establishment or the strategic community. The only exception was the United States of America where realism was a low key affair. Indias foreign policy affairs were influenced by several players. They are classified as categories from the military, aristrocrats, bureaucrats, educationalists,
people from the media, the top brass in science and technology and experienced policy-makers. The policy-makers are
twisted together closely, but the business houses have gained more importance. Due to liberalization Indian business
community were considered vital to an economy and policy decision were made in consultation with them by the
government. The other players in the policy-making like the military, media, educationists, scientist and technologists are given the job of legalizing and popularizing the policy. It is a known fact the foreign policies and the
profession, activity or skill of managing international relations are vested with the group of people who are considered superior in the society. All the players in the policy-making or the strategic community function within the
limits of realism. They conduct in a manner where they deal with things in a practical way rather than theoretical
consideration. They do no do their work haphazardly in a temporary basis. But they are aware of the basic goals and
objectives of the foreign policy. The term political realism involves the fight for power between the states and each
state has the greed to fulfil its own needs. Neo-realism does not ignore the pre-eminence of politics and admits that
it is true that the international order is the combination or coming together of all the players involved in policymaking. There are three major goals or objectives that can be identified. The first and prime most is the countrys
external security and internal unity. The next one is commanding an area or the third world nations.
One basic assumption is that the safety and security of India is very vital. Every other objective comes below the
national interest. The main priority is given to the nations security and all other planning is done in accordance to it.
It is generally assumed that in order to have peace and oneness in the country the nation should be strong physically
and militarily. India has already suffered in the hands of the Britishers. Hence Indias main objective is national
security. In order to protect the nation from enemies.
The international system is the major player and all the states should act according to the rules and norms laid by it.
Though international system is considered to be the head or authority, finally, it is those superior countries who dictate the
terms and act as if they are the authority. Similarly India has all the qualities to become a powerful nation in the future.
Hence its foreign policy should be framed in accordance to what they think of achieving in the future. India has grown in

N
9

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in9

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

many ways right from its development in science and technology, space research, education, etc. It has got state-of-art
equipments and professionals in the defence forces. It is advanced so much in nuclear and missile development programmes.
It is developed in IT field and has skilled professionals, capable aristocrats and bureaucrats. In addition India being a
democratic country is an added advantage. All the above factors put together will help in bringing national security and
power to India. Jawaharlal Nehrus foreign policy had given importance to the skill of managing international relations.
During Indira Gandhis time India slowly started building its skill or expertise in military sector.
India always wanted the participation of all the powers its political and strategic policy-making. It was after 1990s
Indias foreign policy was framed in such a manner that made India looked like a superior power. After 1998 where India
created history in nuclear and missile technology it made all the world countries turn towards India. From then India is
considered to be a superior power or a future power. After Independence, from the period of 1947-1960 the policy-makers
had a vision on India that is going to be a potential power. During that time it had two powers ahead namely Russia and
China. Indian realists were in favour of India being recognized as a powerful country by rest of the world. Attempts were
also made to make India lead South Asian countries. The dream of India becoming superpower was very close when
Soviet Union had a downfall during the aftermath of the cold war. Hence India had a strong hold and all possibilities of
becoming a superpower. India along with being one of the super powers wanted to be fully responsible and strong on the
international scenario. There was change in the global relations where Soviet Union stumbled and hence India had scope
to climb the power ladder. India was successful in developing nuclear weapons and had launched missile development
programmes during 1990s and this occupied a place in Indians foreign policy. Since Indias military system was very
strong and hence it was easy to be among the superior powers. Let us get a glimpse of realist view of Indias foreign
policy. China was always and even now considered to be enemies. This rivalry grew because of the Chinese aggression
and issues regarding the boundary. These things made India and Chinas cordial relationship a dream. It is well-known
that Pakistan and India were and are bitter enemies because of the Kashmir issue. India was slightly favourable to Soviet
Union in cold war times and also signed the treaty of friendship in the year 1971.
China was always a topic of issue between the Indian and American relationship. China had developed so much in terms
of military and economy that is became a threat to Asia, Pacific and the Indian Ocean areas. Population-wise India is next to
China, our military base is strong, we have qualified and skilled professionals, our Gross National Product is huge. With all
these advantages India had to prove its strength and emerge stronger. The leaders of political parties had declared China to be
Indias number one enemy when India tested its nuclear strength in 1998. This is again a thinking of a political realist. Indian
realists are of the opinion that they cannot prevent the chance of powerful and China from becoming friendly neighbours in
the future. Indias nuclear strength was showcased to put India in the list of super powers. This had nothing to do with
relationship with Pakistan.
The realists favoured the idea of competitive security approach where enemies of a particular nation join hands to
become friends. Likewise, Pakistan and China who are Indias rivals joined hands to cause a feeling of insecurity to India.
Foreign policy planners in India work very hard when it comes to planning with reference to the relationship with Pakistan.
India always prefers to associate with cordial and democratic Pakistan. There has always been a friction between the
relationship of both the countries. Pakistan became a member of Western alliance system which angered India. High level
tactics have to be implemented to erase the threat caused by this alliance. United States is friendly with Pakistan for its
own interest. First US befriended Pakistan so that Soviet do not get inside. United States wanted a place from where it can
start its operation. In 1978 Soviet Union set foot in Afganistan and through Pakistan Mujaheedens were supplied weapons
and money. When terror struck in US in September, 2001 Pakistan was forced to join United States in the fight for
terrorism and United States spoke in length about war against terrorism. It is pretty obvious that United States is finding
a route through Pakistan to drain away petroleum and natural gas which is available in abundance. There was slight fall in
the power of the US during the cold war period and this was taken into consideration by the Indian foreign and security
planners. Pakistans next best friend is China which helps it in nuclear and missile development programmes. This is
again a classic example of both enemies joining together to become friends. Indias military strength is so good that
Pakistan cannot even think of being close to it. But the other powers from outside work hard to make Pakistans military
parallel to India. This has really cause worry to the planners and Indian leaders. India is on top of Pakistan in terms of its
geographical area, population, military strength, Gross National Product etc. There is always a friction in the relations
between Pakistan and India. The bone of contention being Jammu and Kashmir. There are several internal issues worrying
India such as cross-border terrorism, materials and money support to militant groups in the North and North East. These
issues are the result of Pakistans foul play to ruin Indias peace.

10
www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in

www.ignou-ac.in10