APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 27/06/2025
For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (27-06-2025).
Mains Question
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From The Assam Tribune, 27 June 2025
Q. Examine the significance of India’s recent refusal to endorse the SCO joint statement over the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). What does this decision reveal about India’s foreign policy priorities and strategic autonomy in multilateral forums?
Model answer
Model Answer
Introduction
At the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, India chose not to sign the joint economic cooperation statement due to its implicit endorsement of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This move highlights India’s consistent opposition to the BRI—especially its China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) component, which violates India’s sovereignty by passing through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Why India Opposes the BRI
| Reason | Explanation |
| 🗺️ Sovereignty Concerns | CPEC infringes on Indian territorial claims in PoK |
| 🧭 Lack of Transparency | BRI projects have been criticized for opaque financing |
| 💰 Debt Diplomacy Risks | Several BRI participants (e.g., Sri Lanka) have faced debt crises |
| 🌍 Strategic Imbalance | BRI is viewed as China’s geopolitical tool, especially in South Asia |
Implications for India’s Foreign Policy
A. Assertion of Strategic Autonomy
- India’s decision reflects an independent and principle-based foreign policy, resisting pressure from powerful neighbours like China and blocs like SCO.
- It reinforces India’s credibility as a sovereign player even in multilateral platforms.
B. Diplomatic Balance
- India continues to engage with SCO members on issues like counterterrorism, energy, and connectivity, without compromising its core interests.
- This selective engagement is part of issue-based alignment, not bloc alignment.
C. Regional Signaling
- The move sends a message to China and Pakistan that territorial integrity is non-negotiable.
- Simultaneously, India uses platforms like INSTC, Chabahar, and BIMSTEC to promote alternative connectivity.
Challenges Arising from This Stand
| Challenge | Details |
| 🤝 Trust Deficit with China | May worsen already tense Sino-Indian relations |
| 🌍 Limited Leverage in SCO | India may find itself isolated in a China-led SCO |
| 🧭 Balancing Multiple Forums | Requires finesse in dealing with Russia, Iran, and Central Asia |
| 📉 Influence Dilution | Non-signature may reduce India’s say in economic policies of SCO |
Way Forward
| Recommendation | Strategy |
| 🛤️ Promote Own Corridors | Strengthen Chabahar Port, North–South Transport Corridor, Act East |
| 🤝 Deepen Central Asia Ties | Use soft power, education, and trade to expand influence |
| 🗣️ Diplomatic Clarity | Clearly articulate India’s conditional participation in joint communiqués |
| 📊 Regional Coalitions | Partner with Iran, Kazakhstan, and Russia on alternate regional projects |
Conclusion
India’s refusal to sign the SCO joint statement is not isolationism—it is a principled assertion of sovereignty and strategic clarity. As multilateralism becomes more complex, India must pursue flexible engagement that safeguards its interests while contributing meaningfully to regional cooperation.
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