UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Q9 — India-Africa Relations
"If the last few decades were of Asia's growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa's." In the light of this statement, examine India's influence in Africa in recent years. (Answer in 150 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- examine
- Scope keywords
- last few decades were of Asia's growth storynext few are expected to be of Africa'sIndia's influence in Africarecent years
- Implicit sub-parts
- Comparative context: How Africa's current trajectory mirrors Asia's past rise (demographics, urbanization, resource potential).
- Strategic/Diplomatic influence: India's role in institutionalizing Africa's voice (e.g., G20 permanent membership).
- Economic/Developmental influence: Shifts from mere trade to digital infrastructure (India Stack) and capacity building (ITEC).
- Geopolitical counterbalance: How India’s 'influence' differs from China's 'debt-trap' model.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too many words on Asia's history rather than focusing on Africa's future and India's role.
- Writing a generic list of India-Africa relations without specifically addressing the 'growth story' aspect.
- Failing to mention recent high-level developments like the inclusion of the African Union in the G20 under India’s presidency.
- Ignoring the 'examine' directive by only listing positive projects without mentioning challenges like security or Chinese competition.
- Dimensions required
- Geopolitical/DiplomaticEconomic/TradeTechnological/Digital InfrastructureSouth-South CooperationHuman Capital/Capacity Building
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 30 words for a contextual intro linking Asia's past to Africa's potential. Use 100 words to examine India's influence across three pillars: diplomatic leadership (G20), economic partnership, and digital/health public goods. Reserve 20 words for a forward-looking conclusion on the 'Vishwa Bandhu' approach.
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