Table of Contents

APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 17/10/2024

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 (17-10-2024).

Q. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) serves as a crucial platform for regional stability and cooperation, especially amidst evolving geopolitical challenges. In the context of the October 2024 SCO conclave, critically analyze India’s stance on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its implications for regional cooperation. What alternative strategies can India adopt to assert its influence in the region while addressing its concerns? (250 words)

Model Answer:

Introduction:
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is a regional grouping comprising India, China, Russia, and Central Asian states, focusing on political, economic, and security cooperation. During the October 2024 SCO conclave, India reiterated its opposition to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), particularly objecting to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). India’s stance reflects its concerns over sovereignty, territorial integrity, and strategic implications of the BRI.

Body:
India’s Stance on BRI and Its Implications for Regional Cooperation:

Sovereignty Concerns:
India’s primary objection to the BRI is rooted in the CPEC, which passes through PoK. India views this as a violation of its territorial sovereignty, making it difficult to endorse the initiative on international platforms like the SCO.
Strategic Rivalry with China:
The BRI has enabled China to expand its influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region. India’s opposition to the BRI is a strategic move to counterbalance China’s growing presence in its neighborhood.
Debt Diplomacy Concerns:
India highlights the issue of debt dependency created by BRI projects, which has led to economic challenges in countries like Sri Lanka and Pakistan. India’s stance aims to promote transparent and sustainable development practices in the region.
Impact on Regional Stability:
India’s refusal to endorse the BRI during the SCO conclave could be perceived as a lack of regional alignment, potentially straining its relations with other SCO members who support the initiative, like Russia and Central Asian states. However, it also underscores India’s commitment to upholding international norms and its strategic autonomy.

Alternative Strategies for India:

Promoting the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC):
India can strengthen its regional presence by advancing the INSTC, which aims to connect India, Iran, and Russia with Central Asia and Europe, offering a viable alternative to the BRI.
Enhancing Connectivity through BIMSTEC and QUAD:
India can leverage its leadership role in regional groupings like BIMSTEC to foster infrastructure development in South Asia, providing an alternative to Chinese-led initiatives. Through the QUAD, India can also promote a free and open Indo-Pacific, balancing China’s influence.
Engaging in Bilateral Infrastructure Projects:
India should focus on bilateral partnerships with neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan to enhance connectivity and offer development assistance, thereby countering China’s infrastructure push.
Investment in Digital and Green Infrastructure:
India can emphasize digital connectivity and green energy projects in collaboration with like-minded countries, aligning with global shifts towards sustainable development and reducing dependency on BRI projects.
Strengthening Trade Relations with Central Asia:
To counterbalance China’s influence, India should deepen its trade and energy ties with Central Asian countries, positioning itself as a reliable partner for economic cooperation in the region.

Conclusion:
India’s opposition to the BRI at the SCO reflects its strategic concerns over sovereignty and regional dynamics. However, by adopting a multi-pronged approach that includes regional connectivity initiatives like INSTC, strengthening partnerships through BIMSTEC and QUAD, and investing in sustainable infrastructure, India can maintain its strategic autonomy while fostering regional cooperation. Balancing its strategic interests with the need for regional stability remains key to India’s diplomatic approach in the SCO.

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