AIR 280 · CSE 2023 · GS2 · 27 pages

Ananya Rana: GS2 answer copy

8 answers by Ananya Rana, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) reflects deepening strategic mistrust between India and Pakistan. Examine the diplomatic and security implications of this move and analyse the structural limitations of the IWT that have hindered bilateral cooperation. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks "The Indian Ocean is evolving as a critical geostrategic theatre, yet regional maritime security cooperation remains fragmented." In this context, evaluate the potential of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) in fostering a collective maritime security architecture in the Indian Ocean region.10 marks
  2. Q5The Red Sea holds strategic importance in global maritime trade and geopolitics. Analyse the impact of the ongoing Red Sea crisis on regional stability and the global supply chain.10 marks
  3. Q6The expansion of BRICS has been projected as a step towards greater representation for the Global South. Critically examine this claim in the context of growing concerns about China's strategic dominance within the grouping.15 marks
  4. Q7'India's recent diplomatic outreach to the Taliban government in Afghanistan marks a significant shift in its regional geopolitical strategy'. Examine the rationale behind this shift and the strategic risks and opportunities it presents for India.15 marks
  5. Q8The ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel present a foreign policy dilemma for India, given its strategic ties with both. Analyse the challenges this conflict poses and suggest how India can balance its interests amid rising instability in the region?15 marks
  6. Q9Despite being a cornerstone of the global trade architecture, the World Trade Organization (WTO) is facing a crisis of relevance. Examine the major challenges undermining the WTO's effectiveness and suggest measures for its revival in a multipolar world.15 marks
  7. Q10India-China relations are evolving from confrontation to cautious diplomacy. In this context, discuss the recent efforts made to stabilise the relationship and identify the structural challenges that continue to impede complete normalisation.15 marks
  8. QThe rise of inward-looking economic strategies in developed countries, such as the Reciprocal Tariff Plan of the USA, reflects a shift in global trade patterns. Analyse their geopolitical and economic implications for developing economies like India. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks Examine Indian diaspora's role in enhancing India's global profile and contributing to its socio-economic development. Discuss the major challenges related to their welfare and engagement.10 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 240 words written

The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) reflects deepening strategic mistrust between India and Pakistan. Examine the diplomatic and security implications of this move and analyse the structural limitations of the IWT that have hindered bilateral cooperation. (Answer in 150 words) 10 marks "The Indian Ocean is evolving as a critical geostrategic theatre, yet regional maritime security cooperation remains fragmented." In this context, evaluate the potential of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) in fostering a collective maritime security architecture in the Indian Ocean region.

Opening · a recent event

India has put in abeyance the IWT in response to the barbaric Pahalgam attack on 22nd April 2025.

Body · points and prose

Diagram
* Suspension reflecting deepening strategic mistrust * had stood the test of 3 wars (1965, 1971 and 1999) * cooperation even continued during multiple terror attacks (26/11) * India had taken humanitarian approach

Diplomatic and security implications of this move

Diplomatic

(1) Creates new red-lines and strengthens the belief 'Water and blood can't flow together' (2) Diplomatic isolation of Pakistan by cutting water supplies.

Diagram
[Indus Water system map with Indus, Jhelum, Chenab in one bracket and Ravi, Beas, Sutlej in another marked Pak]

(3.) Unilateral action may set dangerous precedents among neighbours. Eg. India-China, India-Nepal, India-Bangladesh. (4.) Pakistan may internationalise the issue by taking matter to ICJ under Vienna Convention.

Security

  • (1) India as lower riparian state of China
  • (2) Security-development hyphenation- Trade completely cut with Pakistan
Diagram
Structural limitations of IWT - Based on realities of past - Increased population / climate change not factored in - Low fare strategy by Pakistan - Hindering hydro projects - 'Treaty of surrender' 80% water to Pakistan despite having just 47% of basin. - No clause for renewal of provisions

India needs to use its strategic autonomy and improve infrastructural tactics to efficiently utilise water of Indus River system.

Indian Ocean is evolving as a new great game theatrics due to involvement of various powers looking to secure their interests:

Diagram
- Evolution of Indian Ocean as geostrategic theatre - Frequent conflicts - Presence of Choke points - Rise of Chinese ambitions - Spy vessels of China in Indian Ocean - Malaccan strait - military base in Djibouti
Diagram
[Map of India, surrounding sea with labels: Pak, China, Gwadar, India, BOB, Hambantota, Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea]

Potential of Indian Ocean Rim Association in fostering maritime security

(1) Collaboration of like minded nations who propose Free, Open and Inclusive Indian Ocean (2) India as first Responder in times of crises eg operation samudra setu (3) HADR responsibilities to ensure safer world for all. (4) Project Mausam for cultural connect with Indian Ocean littoral states (5) SAGAR strategy - Security And Growth for all in the region.

Diagram
Some challenges - Influence of China - conflicts among states - String of pearl strategy - Mauritius-UK on Chagos - Non-Traditional threats - drug trafficking - piracy issues

Close

Indian ocean is a region where India asserts, China eyes and U.S. intervenes. Yet IORA has the capacity to promote its use for economic and geo-political gains in a responsible manner.