UPSC Mains 2018 · GS II · Q20 · 15 marks · 250 words

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

हिन्दी में

इस समय जारी अमरीका-ईरान नाभिकीय समझौता विवाद भारत के राष्ट्रीय हितों को किस प्रकार प्रभावित करेगा? भारत को इस स्थिति के प्रति क्या रवैया अपनाना चाहिए?

Bilateral RelationsMajor Powers

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Toppers wrote this one in a test series: “How scrapping of the Joint comprehensive plan of action by the U.S would affect India? Analyse. Also, discuss measures that could help India buffer the consequences of such a move.”

Akshay AgrawalAIR 43 · CSE 2018 · 183 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening · a definition

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was a deal between P5+1 (Permanent-five of UNSC + Germany) and Iran which required Iran to use nuclear energy only for civilian purposes. In turn, sanctions on Iran would be lifted. Recently, US Prez. Donald Trump has announced scrapping of the JCPOA.

This will have tremendous impact on India as Iran holds an important geostrategic position for India's interests.

Body · points

Areas affected:

  1. Geopolitical: Rift between USA and Iran would be difficult to manage for us as we need to have good relation with both,

  2. Economix: Iran is our doorway to Central Asia and is an important partner in Chabahar port, International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC).

  3. Energy security: We import crude oil & natural gas from Iran. Also, the project of a gas pipeline from Iran is important for our energy security.

Measures to buffer consequences:

  1. Maintain neutrality and not taking sides in such cases -> following non-alignment.

  2. Secure our economic and political interests by strengthening relationship by using economic aid, cultural relationship and our soft power, exploring currency swapping agreements etc.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination 2018, General Studies Paper II, Q20. The paper on upsc.gov.in. Themes and links to toppers’ answers are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.