Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) refers to the investment made by a foreign entity in an Indian company or asset, typically in the form of acquiring a controlling interest or establishing new business ventures. FDI is a crucial driver of economic growth, industrial development, and technological advancement in developing economies like India. Since economic liberalisation in…
Month: May 2025
India’s Record in Honouring Human Rights
India, the world’s largest democracy, has a complex and multifaceted record when it comes to honouring human rights. Its constitution, adopted in 1950, guarantees a wide range of fundamental rights to all citizens, reflecting a commitment to justice, equality, and freedom. These rights, including freedom of speech, right to education, and right to life and…
Indian Interests in Central Asia
Central Asia, comprising the five Central Asian Republics (CARs) – Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan – occupies a geopolitically strategic location between Russia, China, Iran, and South Asia. India’s engagement with Central Asia is driven by multiple factors such as energy security, economic ties, geopolitical interests, and the promotion of regional stability. Central Asia…
India’s View and Response to the West Asian Situation
West Asia, commonly referred to as the Middle East, is of strategic significance to India due to historical, economic, and geopolitical reasons. Home to some of the world’s largest energy reserves and a large Indian diaspora, the region plays a vital role in India’s energy security, trade, and foreign policy. India’s approach to the West…
India and East Asian Community
India’s engagement with the East Asian Community (EAC) forms a crucial part of its “Act East Policy”, which aims to deepen strategic, economic, and cultural ties with East and Southeast Asian countries. The EAC, emerging from the framework of ASEAN Plus Six, includes 18 countries such as India, China, Japan, Australia, South Korea, New Zealand,…
India’s Civil Nuclear Agreements
India’s civil nuclear agreements are a cornerstone of its energy diplomacy and strategic autonomy. The pivotal moment came with the India–US Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008), often referred to as the 123 Agreement, which ended India’s decades-long nuclear isolation. This agreement recognized India as a responsible nuclear state despite its non-signatory status to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation…
Discuss India–US Political and Economic Relationship
The political and economic relationship between India and the United States has undergone a remarkable transformation since the Cold War era. Initially defined by strategic mistrust and ideological divergence, the bilateral ties have evolved into a “comprehensive global strategic partnership” characterized by mutual interests in trade, defence, regional stability, and democratic values. The shift from…
Assess India’s Economic Liberalisation and Privatisation Programme
India’s economic liberalisation and privatisation programme, launched in 1991, marked a watershed moment in the country’s economic history. The New Economic Policy (NEP) introduced under Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao and then-Finance Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh aimed to transition the Indian economy from a state-controlled model to a more market-oriented one. The reforms responded…
What are the powers and functions of the PMO? Describe.
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) is the administrative apparatus that assists the Prime Minister of India in discharging their responsibilities efficiently. Functioning as the nerve centre of governance and policy coordination, the PMO plays a crucial role in the Indian political system. While it is not a constitutional body, its significance is derived from the…
Explain the factors contributing to the making of India’s foreign policy.
India’s foreign policy has evolved significantly since its independence in 1947, reflecting changes in global power dynamics, national priorities, leadership vision, and economic capabilities. Foreign policy refers to a nation’s strategy in dealing with other states and international actors, encompassing diplomacy, defense, trade, and multilateral engagements. India’s foreign policy is rooted in the ideals of…
How does India respond to world affairs?
India, as the world’s largest democracy and a rapidly growing economy, holds a distinct and evolving position in world affairs. Its responses are informed by historical experiences, geopolitical interests, economic aspirations, and its vision for a multipolar world. India’s foreign policy is characterized by strategic autonomy, peaceful coexistence, and a desire to contribute constructively to…
Agricultural technology-based sustainable farming practices
Agricultural technology-based sustainable farming practices involve the use of modern technology to improve agricultural productivity while minimizing negative environmental impacts. These practices aim to enhance food security, improve soil health, reduce water usage, and protect biodiversity. Sustainable farming technologies are integral to ensuring long-term agricultural productivity in a world facing climate change, resource depletion, and…