Question map
The 'Gujral Doctrine' relates to which one of the following issues?
Explanation
The 'Gujral Doctrine' is a landmark foreign policy framework initiated in 1996 by I. K. Gujral, then India's Foreign Minister [1]. It is based on the principle of non-reciprocity, advocating that India, as the largest nation in South Asia, should offer unilateral concessions to its smaller neighbours like Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, and Sri Lanka [2]. The doctrine's primary objective is to build trust and create an atmosphere of peace and friendship in the region through five key principles, including non-interference in internal affairs and respect for territorial integrity [2]. It emphasizes 'moral leadership' and 'trust over transaction' to ensure regional stability. By fostering goodwill and settling disputes through peaceful bilateral negotiations, the doctrine sought to transform India's relations with its immediate neighbourhood [2]. Consequently, it directly relates to building trust between India and its neighbours.
Sources
- [1] Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 88: Foreign Policy > GUJRAL DOCTRINE > p. 610
- [2] Rajiv Ahir. A Brief History of Modern India (2019 ed.). SPECTRUM. > Chapter 39: After Nehru... > United Front Government: Deve Gowda and I.K. Gujral > p. 752