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UPSC Mains GS 2 PYQ: India & Its Neighbourhood (2013–2026)

Every question on India & Its Neighbourhood asked in UPSC Mains General Studies II from 2013–2026, 14 in all, newest first.

2026 · Q20 India & Its Neighbourhood · 15 marks

"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.

2024 · Q20 India & Its Neighbourhood · 15 marks

Discuss 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?

2022 · Q9 India & Its Neighbourhood · 10 marks

'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.

2017 · Q9 India & Its Neighbourhood · 10 marks

"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.

2016 · Q19 India & Its Neighbourhood · 12.5 marks

"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.

2015 · Q19 India & Its Neighbourhood · 12.5 marks

Project '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.

2015 · Q20 India & Its Neighbourhood · 12.5 marks

Terrorist 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.

2014 · Q16 India & Its Neighbourhood · 12.5 marks

With respect to the South China sea, maritime territorial disputes and rising tension affirm the need for safeguarding maritime security to ensure freedom of navigation and over flight throughout the region. In this context, discuss the bilateral issues between India and China.

2013 · Q18 India & Its Neighbourhood · 10 marks

The 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.

2013 · Q19 India & Its Neighbourhood · 10 marks

What do you understand by 'The String of Pearls'? How does it impact India? Briefly outline the steps taken by India to counter this.

2013 · Q21 India & Its Neighbourhood · 10 marks

The 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?

2013 · Q22 India & Its Neighbourhood · 10 marks

Discuss the political developments in Maldives in the last two years. Should they be of any cause of concern to India?

2013 · Q23 India & Its Neighbourhood · 10 marks

In respect of India – Sri Lanka relations, discuss how domestic factors influence foreign policy.

2013 · Q24 India & Its Neighbourhood · 10 marks

What is meant by Gujral doctrine? Does it have any relevance today? Discuss.