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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 09/12/2025

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 (09-12-2025).

Question:

“India–US trade relations continue to display both deep strategic convergence and persistent economic frictions. In the context of the 2025 tariff dispute and ongoing trade negotiations, critically examine the challenges and opportunities for building a stable and mutually beneficial India–US trade partnership.”

⭐ Model Answer (Point-Wise, UPSC Style, 250–270 words)

1. Context / Introduction

India–US trade ties have grown into a major component of the broader strategic partnership.
The 2025 imposition of a 25% tariff + 25% penalty on Indian goods (linked to Russian crude purchases) has created fresh tensions.

TG@Assam_Tribune (09-12-2025)

Negotiations for a framework trade agreement highlight the need to resolve long-standing economic differences.

2. Key Challenges in India–US Trade Relations

Tariff-Related Frictions
- Recurring disputes on steel, aluminium, and Russia-linked penalties reduce predictability for exporters.
Digital Trade & Data Concerns
- US demands for free cross-border data flows clash with India’s preference for data localization and digital sovereignty.
Agricultural Market Access Issues
- US seeks access for dairy, pork, and certain cereals, which India resists due to domestic sensitivities.
Mobility & Visa Restrictions
- H-1B and professional mobility issues affect India’s IT sector competitiveness.
Divergent Regulatory Philosophies
- India prioritizes developmental policy space; the US pushes for greater market liberalization.
Trade Deficit & Geopolitical Overhangs
- US deficit concerns and India’s Russia policy occasionally spill over into trade negotiations.

3. Opportunities for Strengthening the Partnership

Supply Chain Diversification
- India can become a key partner in US efforts to reduce reliance on China.
Technology & Innovation Cooperation
- Platforms such as iCET enable collaboration in AI, quantum, semiconductors, and defence tech.
Energy & Climate Cooperation
- Joint work in clean energy, solar, and critical minerals can deepen economic ties.
Market Expansion for Indian Industries
- IT services, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and engineering goods stand to gain improved access.
Investment Flows
- US firms seeking China-plus-one destinations can boost India’s manufacturing ecosystem.

4. Way Forward

Calibrated Roadmap for Tariff Reduction
- Resolve Russia-linked penalties and legacy disputes through phased negotiations.
Balanced Framework Trade Agreement
- Protect India’s developmental needs while offering reasonable market access commitments.
Regulatory Dialogues on Digital Trade
- Harmonize data governance, cybersecurity norms, and digital taxation frameworks.
Strengthening Mobility Channels
- Ease professional visas and mutually recognize skills & qualifications.
Institutionalizing Economic Dialogue
- Regular high-level interactions to prevent geopolitical issues from derailing economic cooperation.

5. Conclusion

Despite periodic frictions, the structural logic of India–US partnership—strategic alignment, technology cooperation, and supply chain complementarities—creates strong incentives for a durable and mutually beneficial trade architecture.d shaping a stable, rules-based Indo-Pacific, even as it requires sustained political, financial and administrative commitment.

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