UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Q19 — International Organizations
Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India? (Answer in 250 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Critically examine
- Scope keywords
- aims and objectives of SCOimportanceIndia
- Implicit sub-parts
- Assessment of the gap between SCO's stated objectives (Charter) versus the ground reality of member conflicts.
- The 'China-Pakistan' factor as a challenge to SCO’s core aims of regional stability.
- Strategic importance for India's 'Connect Central Asia' policy and energy security.
- The role of RATS (Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure) in addressing India's security concerns.
- Common pitfalls
- Listing the member states without discussing the 'aims' or 'objectives' specifically.
- Failing to provide the 'critical' perspective, such as the inherent contradictions between members like India-Pakistan or India-China.
- Overlooking the RATS mechanism which is a core pillar of SCO's functional objectives.
- Writing a generic essay on foreign policy instead of focusing on the specific geopolitical leverage India gains or loses within this bloc.
- Dimensions required
- GeopoliticalSecurity (Counter-terrorism)Economic and Energy SecurityConnectivity (INSTC and Chabahar)Strategic Autonomy
- Marks allocation hint
Devote approximately 100 words to the 'critically examine' part of aims/objectives, highlighting the divergence between theory and practice. Use the remaining 150 words to detail India's multifaceted interests, ensuring a balance between security benefits and the challenge of navigating a China-dominated grouping.
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