GS2 · Topic
Regional Groupings
SAARC, BIMSTEC, ASEAN, QUAD, BRICS, SCO and the like.
112 UPSC Mains GS2 questions on Regional Groupings that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2017–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
ASEAN centrality, a key element in regional security and Asia's multilateral cooperation, can be deployed to ensure that Asia's future is not dictated predominantly by great power interests. Discuss. (10M)
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Regional GroupingsMajor Powers
Explain the factors that make Indo-Pacific a region of significance for India. What are the impediments in reaping the geo-strategic potential of the Indo-Pacific?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper
Bilateral RelationsRegional Groupings
Despite their significance, India has not been able to strengthen its ties with the Central Asian countries. Bringing out the reasons for the same, discuss how India can deepen its relationship with countries in this region.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Bilateral RelationsRegional Groupings
India's membership in the Shanghai cooperation organization (SCO) is aimed at securing strategic benefits. In this context, discuss how ongoing disputes with China and Pakistan impact india's ability to achieve these benefits?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Regional GroupingsNeighbourhood
Discuss the situation of millet production in India. Also throw light on challenges that this sector is facing along with the measures taken by government to improve it. (15m) India has an important role to play in security and sustainable development of the Indo-Pacific. In this context, appraise the role of BIMSTEC as an institution to facilitate greater role to India in the region. (15m)
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Policy Design and ImplementationRegional Groupings
Presidency of G20 is but a reflection of India's quest for a more just & polycentric world order, where the voice of global South is mainstreamed not muzzled. Elucidate.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Global InstitutionsRegional Groupings
World in 21st century is seeing rise of smaller groupings, instead of large groups of 20th century.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Regional GroupingsBilateral Relations
BRICS can serve as a platform for shaping a post-Western global order, but the potential of the grouping is held back by internal contradictions. Examine.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Regional GroupingsGlobal Institutions
Discuss the centrality of ASEAN bloc in India's Act East policy and SAGAR initiative.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Regional GroupingsSecurity and Strategic Affairs
As China continues to pursue dominance over Indo-Pacific, the trilateral technology alliance between India, South Korea and the United States aim to enhance collaboration in key emerging technology fields. Discuss the implications of this alliance for the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Regional GroupingsSecurity and Strategic Affairs
Critically examine the efficacy of BRICS in the evolving global order. Also discuss India's recent diplomatic shifts regarding Afghanistan and the Iran-Israel conflict.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Regional GroupingsBilateral Relations
Assess the impact of India's G20 presidency on its global image and leadership role. How has India used its presidency to advance its foreign policy objectives and promote a more equitable global order?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Regional GroupingsGlobal Institutions
The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) has emerged as the US-led framework for economic cooperation between the participating countries as an alternative to the RCEP. Examine the statement and identify the challenges and way forward for IPEF. Further, discuss the potential of BRICS to lead towards reformed multilateralism and the roadblocks it faces.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Regional GroupingsGlobal Institutions
India's focus has shifted from Indian Ocean to Indo-Pacific, showing evolution of foreign policy.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Bilateral RelationsSecurity and Strategic Affairs
Whoever controls the oceans, runs the world. In this context, discuss the shift in India's maritime strategy from SAGAR to MAHASAGAR.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Security and Strategic AffairsRegional Groupings
BRICS and QUAD are crucial for advancing Indian interests in a multipolar world while maintaining its strategic autonomy.
Answered by 1 topper
Regional GroupingsSecurity and Strategic Affairs
China views India as "Asian Rival" with innate ability to counter its hegemonic goals in Asia. Despite these difficulties in India-China relations, there are also convergences. Discuss.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Regional GroupingsBilateral Relations
What is Strategic Autonomy? Critically examine the elements of such a policy in India's contemporary foreign policy in the context of recent developments.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Bilateral RelationsSecurity and Strategic Affairs
It is often argued that SAARC did not have a promising childhood but it can expect a better adulthood. In light of this statement, explain the reasons for the failure of SAARC and need for its revival.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Regional GroupingsNeighbourhood
Considering the geopolitical complexities within the SCO, evaluate the effectiveness of India's presidency in advancing its strategic and economic interests in the region.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Regional GroupingsSecurity and Strategic Affairs
"Indian Ocean Region is where India asserts, China eyes, and USA intervenes". Discuss.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Regional GroupingsSecurity and Strategic Affairs
The expansion of BRICS reflects changing power dynamics in global politics. Discuss the strategic, economic, and diplomatic implications for India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Regional GroupingsBilateral Relations