GS2 2018 Q20 15 marks 250 words International Relations

UPSC Mains 2018 GS2 Q20 — International Relations

In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the national interest of India? How should India respond to this situation? (Answer in 250 words)

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Question Decoded — examiner's intent

Directive verbs
In what waysHow should
Scope keywords
US-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversynational interest of IndiaHow should India respond
Implicit sub-parts
  • Economic impact focusing on energy security and trade with Iran (Chabahar Port).
  • Geopolitical impact including India's balancing act between the US-Israel-Saudi axis and the Eurasian-Russian axis.
  • Strategic implications for regional stability in the Middle East and Afghanistan connectivity.
  • Proposed diplomatic strategy for India to maintain 'Strategic Autonomy' while navigating sanctions.
Common pitfalls
  • Spending too much time on the history of the JCPOA instead of focusing on India-specific consequences.
  • Ignoring the 'CAATSA' implications and focus only on crude oil prices.
  • Failing to mention the 'International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC)' as a key victim of the controversy.
  • Suggesting an unrealistic black-and-white choice between the US and Iran instead of a nuanced multi-aligned approach.
Dimensions required
Energy SecurityGeostrategyEconomic/TradeDiplomatic StrategyRegional Stability
Marks allocation hint

Devote approximately 150 words to the 'In what ways' section, breaking it into energy, connectivity, and diaspora safety. The remaining 100 words should provide a pragmatic roadmap for India, emphasizing strategic autonomy and the pursuit of sanctions waivers.

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