Neighbourhood

15 UPSC Mains GS II questions on Neighbourhood, 2013 to 2026, newest first, as UPSC set them. See also practice questions on Neighbourhood toppers answered.

1. 2026 Q20“China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has transformed South Asia from a regional space into a theatre of great power competition.” Analyse the strategic implications of the BRI for India’s security and regional influence in South Asia.15 marks · 250 words
2. 2024 Q20Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further also discuss how this relationship affects India’s maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition ?15 marks · 250 words
3. 2023 Q9‘Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO’ In the light of the above statement point out the role of India in mitigating the problems.10 marks · 150 words
4. 2022 Q9‘India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.’ Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement.10 marks · 150 words
5. 2022 Q10Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC ? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two ? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation ?10 marks · 150 words
6. 2017 Q9“China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia.” In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbour.10 marks · 150 words
7. 2016 Q19“Increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in India and growing interference in the internal affairs of several member-states by Pakistan are not conducive for the future of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation).” Explain with suitable examples.12.5 marks · 200 words
8. 2015 Q19Project ‘Mausam’ is considered a unique foreign policy initiative of the Indian Government to improve relationship with its neighbours. Does the project have a strategic dimension? Discuss.12.5 marks · 200 words
9. 2015 Q20Terrorist activities and mutual distrust have clouded India-Pakistan relations. To what extent the use of soft power like sports and cultural exchanges could help generate goodwill between the two countries? Discuss with suitable examples.12.5 marks · 200 words
10. 2013 Q18The proposed withdrawal of International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) from Afghanistan in 2014 is fraught with major security implications for the countries of the region. Examine in light of the fact that India is faced with a plethora of challenges and needs to safeguard its own strategic interests.10 marks · 200 words
11. 2013 Q19What do you understand by ‘The String of Pearls’ ? How does it impact India ? Briefly outline the steps taken by India to counter this.10 marks · 200 words
12. 2013 Q21The protests in Shahbag Square in Dhaka in Bangladesh reveal a fundamental split in society between the nationalists and Islamic forces. What is its significance for India ?10 marks · 200 words
13. 2013 Q22Discuss the political developments in Maldives in the last two years. Should they be of any cause of concern to India ?10 marks · 200 words
14. 2013 Q23In respect of India – Sri Lanka relations, discuss how domestic factors influence foreign policy.10 marks · 200 words
15. 2013 Q24What is meant by Gujral doctrine ? Does it have any relevance today ? Discuss.10 marks · 200 words

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination question papers, upsc.gov.in. Topics are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.