UPSC Mains 2015 · GS II · Q18 · 12.5 marks · 200 words

Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in UN Security Council.

हिन्दी में

संयुक्त राष्ट्र सुरक्षा परिषद् में स्थायी सीट की खोज में भारत के समक्ष आने वाली बाधाओं पर चर्चा कीजिए।

How a topper answered the closest question

Toppers wrote this one in a test series: “For creation of a stable, peaceful & prosperous multipolar order, UNSC reforms are an urgent imperative. Examine the statement & present a case for India's permanent membership in UNSC.”

Srishti DabasAIR 6 · CSE 2023 · 268 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening · a quotation

"We need to reform & revamp UNSC and restructure it to keep it relevant." - ex PM Manmohan Singh.

UNSC aims to prevent future world wars, maintain peace & harmony, ensure development and protection of Human Rights — to create a stable, peaceful & prosperous multipolar world.

For this, reforms are need of the hour.

Body · points

(1) Expansion in membership of UNSC → to reflect changing dynamics of the world.

  • give due representation to developing nations, especially Africa & Latin America.
  • to check tyranny of 'P5'

(2) Veto reforms - as currently misused.

  • Russia vetoed resolution against itself for war on Ukraine.
  • China blocks designation of terrorists.

(3) UN peacekeeping missions that are sanctioned by UNSC need reforms

  • coordination between funds & troops contributing nations
  • check on sexual violence allegations, corruption.

(4) Amendment of UN Charter -

  • to remove 'Allies' reference
  • change mandate of Trusteeship Council.
  • administrative efficiency & powers to UNGA

India's case for permanent membership

(1) Largest population, fifth largest economy and powerful military.

(2) abides by values of ahimsa, panchsheel, vasudhaiva kutumbakam & peaceful coexistence.

(3) contributes to UN peacekeeping professionalism & dedication.

(4) stands for verified, universal & time bound disarmament.

(5) is a responsible nuclear power state with No first use policy.

(6) voices for a fair, inclusive rules based world order - be it WTO or South China Sea.

(7) Net Security provider -

  • aid to Nepal (earthquake)
  • Operation Dost (Turkey)
  • aid to Sri lanka
  • Vaccine Maitri.

Close · a summary

India deserves to be a permanent UNSC member given her stature & significance.

How toppers approach this question, and more on its topic: open the question.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination 2015, General Studies Paper II, Q18. The paper on upsc.gov.in. Themes and links to toppers’ answers are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.