CUETbyNTA

The correct answer is Only 1 is correct.

Explanation: ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) was indeed established for political and economic cooperation in Southeast Asia. However, it comprises 10 member countries, not 15, and all are in Asia.
 Key PointsThe Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising ten countries in Southeast Asia. It was established with the primary aim of promoting political and economic cooperation among its members and to foster regional stability. Here's a detailed explanation of its key aspects:

1. Establishment and Goals

• Founding Date: ASEAN was established on 8 August 1967.
• Founding Countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand were the original member states.
• Main Objectives: The organization was founded to promote peace and stability in the region, encourage economic, social, and cultural development, and to promote regional cooperation and integration.

2. Membership

• Current Member Countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
• Expansion Over Time: The membership expanded gradually from the original five to the current ten.
• Geographical Location: All member countries are located in Southeast Asia, contrasting with the erroneous notion that it includes 15 members from different parts of Asia.

3. Economic Cooperation

• Economic Integration: One of ASEAN's key goals is to promote economic integration among its members. This includes reducing trade barriers, harmonizing regulations, and encouraging investment.
• ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA): Established to boost regional trade by eliminating tariffs and other trade barriers among members.

4. Political and Security Cooperation

• Regional Stability: ASEAN plays a critical role in maintaining regional stability and has mechanisms for conflict resolution and political cooperation.
• ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF): A platform for security dialogue in Asia, involving ASEAN member states and other global powers.

5. Cultural and Social Integration

• Cultural Exchange: There are initiatives to promote cultural exchange and understanding among the diverse cultures within member states.
• Social Development: ASEAN also focuses on social aspects such as education, public health, and human rights.

6. Challenges and Criticisms

• Diversity and Disparities: The diverse political systems and levels of economic development among member states pose challenges for integration.
• Human Rights Issues: ASEAN has faced criticism over its handling of human rights issues within member states.

7. International Influence

• Global Role: ASEAN is increasingly recognized as a significant player in global affairs, particularly in Asia-Pacific regional politics.
• Dialogue Partners: It engages with major global powers through dialogue partners, including the United States, China, the European Union, and others.

 Additional Information

• ASEAN is a cornerstone organization in Southeast Asia, focusing on multi-dimensional cooperation among its ten member states. It stands as a model of regional integration, addressing not just economic but also political, cultural, and social issues. Contrary to the misconception that it includes 15 Asian countries, it's strictly a Southeast Asian organization with ten members.

The correct answer is 'Only Statement II'.

Key Points

• Globalization and its impact on developing nations:
  • Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of the world's markets and businesses.
  • It has a profound impact on developing nations, influencing their economies, cultures, and political systems.
• Statement I: Globalization primarily benefits developing nations by ensuring equal access to global markets and reducing poverty:
  • This statement is overly optimistic and not entirely accurate.
  • While globalization can offer opportunities for economic growth, it does not guarantee equal access to global markets for all developing nations.
  • Many developing countries struggle with barriers such as trade imbalances, lack of infrastructure, and limited access to advanced technology.
  • Moreover, the benefits of globalization are often unevenly distributed, sometimes exacerbating poverty and inequality within developing nations.
• Statement II: Developing nations face significant challenges under globalization due to economic dependency, trade imbalances, and limited access to advanced technology:
  • This statement accurately reflects some of the critical challenges faced by developing nations in the era of globalization.
  • Economic dependency: Developing nations often become dependent on developed countries for investment, technology, and markets, which can limit their economic sovereignty.
  • Trade imbalances: Developing nations frequently face trade imbalances, where they export raw materials at lower prices and import finished goods at higher prices, leading to economic disadvantages.
  • Limited access to advanced technology: Developing nations often lack the infrastructure and resources to access and implement advanced technologies, hindering their economic development and competitiveness.

Additional Information

• Positive aspects of globalization for developing nations:
  • Globalization can lead to increased foreign direct investment (FDI), which can boost economic growth and create jobs.
  • Access to larger markets can help developing nations expand their exports and improve their economies.
  • Globalization can facilitate the transfer of knowledge, skills, and technology, potentially benefiting developing nations.
• Negative aspects of globalization for developing nations:
  • Global competition can lead to the exploitation of labor and natural resources in developing nations.
  • The dominance of multinational corporations can undermine local businesses and economies.
  • Cultural homogenization can erode local traditions and identities.

The correct answer is A, C, B, D
Explanation: India became a member of the United Nations on October 30, 1945, followed by joining the Group of 77 on June 15, 1964, becoming one of the founding members of the Non-Aligned Movement in 1961, and gaining G20 membership on December 1, 1998.

 Key PointsLet's delve into the details of India's association with the mentioned international organizations in chronological order:

United Nations (UN):

• Date of Joining: India became a member of the United Nations on October 30, 1945.
• Background: India's association with the UN dates back to its early years of independence. As one of the founding members, India played a crucial role in the drafting of the UN Charter and has been actively involved in various UN activities, including peacekeeping operations and contributions to international development goals.

Non-Aligned Movement (NAM):

• Date of Joining: India was one of the founding members of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), established in 1961 during the Belgrade Conference.
• Background: The Non-Aligned Movement was formed during the Cold War to provide a platform for countries that did not align with either the Western or Eastern blocs. India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, played a key role in the movement's formation. NAM aimed to promote the interests and independence of developing nations and advocate for a more equitable and just world order.

Group of 77 (G77):

• Date of Joining: India joined the Group of 77 (G77) on June 15, 1964.
• Background: The G77 is a coalition of developing nations that was established to promote economic cooperation and development. India's membership in the G77 reflects its commitment to addressing common development challenges and advocating for the interests of developing countries on the international stage.

G20:

• Date of Joining: India became a member of the G20 on December 1, 1998.
• Background: The G20 is a forum for major economies to discuss and coordinate on global economic issues. India's inclusion in the G20 is a recognition of its growing economic significance on the world stage. As a member, India participates in discussions on issues such as financial stability, sustainable development, and international trade, contributing to the formulation of global economic policies.

 Additional Information

• India's engagement with these international organizations underscores its commitment to global cooperation, development, and diplomacy across different periods in its post-independence history.

The correct answer is 'Unipolarity, with the United States emerging as the sole superpower dominating global politics and security affairs.'

Key Points

• Unipolarity, with the United States emerging as the sole superpower:
  • After the Cold War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the global balance of power shifted significantly, resulting in a unipolar world order dominated by the United States.
  • This period saw the U.S. exerting unparalleled influence over global politics, economics, and security affairs, without any equivalent rival superpower.
  • The unipolar moment was characterized by American dominance in military capabilities, economic strength, and cultural influence across the globe.

Additional Information

• Multipolarity:
  • While the emergence of several major powers, including China, Russia, and the European Union, has been notable, these developments have not created a multipolar world to the same extent as the dominance of the U.S. immediately following the Cold War.
  • Multipolarity refers to a global system in which several states or entities wield significant power, but this has been more characteristic of the 21st century rather than the immediate post-Cold War era.
• Bipolarity:
  • The Cold War era was defined by bipolarity, with two superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union, in opposition. The end of the Cold War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union marked the end of this bipolar order.
  • New rivalries and regional powers have emerged, but they have not established a bipolar system akin to the Cold War era.
• Neutrality:
  • The post-Cold War era has seen efforts and movements towards peace and cooperation, but the global order has not been defined by neutrality or an absence of major power struggles.
  • While there have been significant efforts towards international cooperation, these have not overshadowed the influence of unipolarity under U.S. dominance.

The correct answer is 'Only Statement II'

Key Points

• World Trade Organization (WTO) Objectives:
  • The WTO is an international organization that deals with the global rules of trade between nations.
  • Its main function is to ensure that trade flows as smoothly, predictably, and freely as possible.
• Statement I:
  • Statement I is incorrect because the WTO does not promote fair trade practices by imposing protective tariffs on imports from developing nations.
  • In fact, the WTO aims to reduce trade barriers and ensure that tariffs and other trade restrictions are applied fairly and consistently among its member nations.
• Statement II:
  • Statement II is correct as the WTO aims to ensure non-discriminatory and reciprocal trade practices among its member nations.
  • This is achieved through the principles of Most Favored Nation (MFN) and National Treatment, which are fundamental to the WTO's agreements.

Additional Information

• Most Favored Nation (MFN) Principle:
  • The MFN principle requires WTO members to apply the same conditions on all trade with other WTO members, ensuring no discrimination between trading partners.
  • This helps in creating a level playing field for all member countries.
• National Treatment Principle:
  • This principle ensures that once goods enter a market, they should be treated no less favorably than domestically produced goods regarding internal taxes and regulations.
  • It prevents countries from using internal measures to give domestic products an unfair advantage over foreign products.
• Dispute Resolution:
  • The WTO provides a forum for negotiating trade agreements and a place for resolving trade disputes between its members.
  • Its dispute resolution mechanism is designed to be fair, transparent, and based on agreed legal rules.

The correct answer is 'One-party dominance with weak opposition'

Key Points

• One-party dominance with weak opposition:
  • The 'Congress System' as described by Rajni Kothari refers to a political situation in India where the Indian National Congress (INC) was the dominant party.
  • This dominance was characterized by the INC's ability to win a majority of seats in elections, often facing weak and fragmented opposition.
  • The INC's dominance allowed it to set the political agenda and govern with relative stability.
  • This system was prevalent during the early decades of India's independence, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s.

Additional Information

• One-party dominance and a strong regional leadership:
  • This option suggests a scenario where the dominant party also has strong regional leaders, which was not a defining characteristic of the 'Congress System'. The INC had a centralized leadership with regional leaders playing a supportive role.
• Faction-ridden party with charismatic leadership:
  • While the INC did have internal factions and charismatic leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, this description does not fully capture the essence of the 'Congress System' which was more about the overall political dominance of the party.

The World Trade Organization (WTO) is an intergovernmental organization that regulates and facilitates international trade between nations. WTO commenced its operations under the Marrakesh Agreement, signed by 123 countries. As of 2016, the WTO has 164 members.

Key Points

• World Trade Organisation (WTO) commenced its operations on 1 January 1995.
• But its trading system is half a century older.
• Since 1948, the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) had given the rules for the system.
• The second WTO ministerial meeting, held in Geneva in May 1998, included a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the system.
• WTO commenced its operations under the Marrakesh Agreement, signed by 123 countries.
• As of 2016, the WTO has 164 members.

Additional Information

• The World Trade Organization (WTO) deals with the global rules of trade between nations.
• Its main function is to ensure that global trade flows as smoothly, predictably, and freely as possible.
• The headquarters of WTO is in Geneva, Switzerland.
• The WTO facilitates trade in goods, services, and intellectual property among participating countries by providing a framework for negotiating trade agreements, which usually aim to reduce or eliminate tariffs, quotas, and other restrictions.

hence the correct answer from the above statements is, that WTO commenced its operations under the Marrakesh Agreement, signed by 123 countries. and As of 2016, the WTO has 164 members.

The correct answer is Option 1.

Key Points

• Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, invasion of Afghanistan in late December 1979 by troops from the Soviet Union.
• The Soviet Union intervened in support of the Afghan communist government in its conflict with anti-communist Muslim guerrillas during the Afghan War (1978–92) and remained in Afghanistan until mid-February 1989.

The correct answer is 'Principle relating to a military strategy'

Key Points

• Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD):
  • Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) is a military strategy and national security policy in which a full-scale use of nuclear weapons by two or more opposing sides would result in the complete annihilation of both the attacker and the defender.
  • The concept assumes that the threat of such catastrophic destruction deters all parties from actually deploying their nuclear arsenals, effectively maintaining a balance of power and preventing nuclear war.
  • This doctrine was a cornerstone of the strategic balance during the Cold War, particularly between the United States and the Soviet Union.

Additional Information

• Subsidies and sanctions policy:
  • This option refers to economic tools used by countries to influence the behavior of other nations. Subsidies are financial aids provided to support domestic industries, while sanctions are penalties imposed to enforce international laws or standards.
  • However, these economic measures are not related to the concept of Mutually Assured Destruction.
• Economic blockade theory:
  • Economic blockade theory involves the use of economic barriers to isolate and weaken an adversary, typically by restricting trade and other economic activities.
  • While economic blockades can be a strategy in warfare, they do not encompass the specific principles of Mutually Assured Destruction, which focuses on nuclear deterrence.
• A soviet plan as response to the Marshall Plan:
  • The Marshall Plan was an American initiative to aid Western Europe after World War II to rebuild economies and prevent the spread of communism.
  • The Soviet Union's response, known as the Molotov Plan, aimed to provide economic assistance to Eastern Bloc countries. This is separate from the concept of Mutually Assured Destruction, which is related to nuclear strategy rather than economic aid plans.

The correct answer is 1, 2 and 3.

Key Points

• Factors that led to the Disintegration of the Soviet Union:
  • Germany, after the second world war, was divided among the socialist USSR and the western capitalist countries.
    • With the withdrawal of Soviet troops from East Germany, Gorbachev agreed to German reunification.
    • Soon in 1989, the wall of Berlin fall which led to further changes in other socialist countries, the unification of Germany, and finally the collapse of the Soviet Union itself in 1991. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
  • The weakness of the Soviet economy caused dissatisfaction among the people in USSR.
    • The market faced a severe shortage of consumer goods. Huge economic spending on the military, the administrative cost of maintaining such a huge empire, maintenance of states in Eastern Europe became some of the important factors of Soviet Disintegration.
    • Hence, statement 2 is correct.
  • In the mid-’80s, when Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev started his policies of openness and restructuring, the threat of Soviet intervention in other socialist countries faded away. Also, Gorbachev’s decision to allow elections with a multi-party system and create a presidency for the Soviet Union began a slow process of democratization that eventually destabilized Communist control and contributed to the collapse of the Soviet Union.
  • In 1989, nationalist movements in Eastern Europe brought regime change in Poland, and the movement soon spread to Ukraine, Georgia, Yugoslavia, Baltic republics and other Soviet satellites in Eastern Europe.
    • As these Soviet republics pulled away from the Soviet Union, the power of the central state weakened and lastly the USSR disintegrated in 1991.
    • Hence, statement 3 is correct.

The correct answer is Mikhail Gorbachev.

Key Points

• The momentous changes that took place in the Soviet Union under the leadership of Mikhail Gorbachev are usually described by two Russian words: glasnost and perestroika. Glasnost, or “openness,” refers to the dramatic enlargement of individual freedom of expression in the political and social aspects of Eastern European life. Perestroika is usually translated as “restructuring,” in the context of economic renewal. Derived from the word for building (stroika), it implies the rehabilitation of an old structure.
• Perestroika is a program instituted in the Soviet Union by Mikhail Gorbachev in the mid-1980s.
• It aims is to restructure Soviet economic and political policy.
• Gorbachev decentralized economic controls and encouraged enterprises to become self-financing.
• Mikhail Gorbachev was the first president of the Soviet Union, serving from 1990 to 1991. 
• In 1990, he was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace for his leadership role in ending the Cold War and promoting peaceful international relations.
• Mikhail Gorbachev became a delegate to the Communist Party Congress in 1961. 
• He was elected general secretary in 1985.

Important Points

• Nikita Khrushchev (1894-1971) led the Soviet Union during the height of the Cold War, serving as premier from 1958 to 1964.
• Boris Yeltsin is a Russian politician who became president of Russia in 1990.
• Vladimir Putin is a Russian intelligence officer and politician who served as president (1999–2008, 2012– till now) of Russia and also was the country’s prime minister (1999, 2008–12).

The correct answer is option 1, George Kennan.

• He was an American diplomat and historian who served as the US ambassador to the Soviet Union during the Cold War.
• In 1947, he wrote an article titled "The Sources of Soviet Conduct" under the pseudonym "X" in which he outlined the policy of containment.
• This policy aimed to prevent the spread of communism by containing it within its existing borders and using diplomatic, economic, and military means to weaken it.

 Additional Information

• Option 2, Alfred Sauvy, was a French demographer and economist who coined the term "Third World" in 1952 to describe the countries that were not aligned with either the capitalist First World or the communist Second World.
• Option 3, George Marshall, was an American military leader and statesman who served as the US Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense. He is best known for the Marshall Plan, which provided economic aid to Western Europe after World War II.
• Option 4, John Marshall, was an American politician and lawyer who served as the fourth Chief Justice of the United States from 1801 to 1835.
• Overall, George Kennan's concept of containment had a significant impact on US foreign policy during the Cold War and remains relevant today in discussions about how to deal with authoritarian regimes and threats to global security.

The correct answer is climate change.
Key Points

• India and China post Dokhlam crisis have troubled relations.
• However they have consensus on Climate Change.
• Both India China supports fair climate policy based on Common but differentiated policy.

Additional Information

Both Lack consensus on

• Vietnam issue with China focusing on forceful occupation of Vietnamese oil resources.
• Hambantota port : India is against Chinese building of the port.
• Yoga : It is India focusing on popularizing it.

The correct answer is '(D), (E), (A), (B), (C)'

Key Points

• Demise of Communism in East Europe:
  • The fall of Communism in Eastern Europe began in the late 1980s, most notably in 1989, with the collapse of the Berlin Wall and the subsequent end of Communist regimes in countries like Poland, Hungary, and Czechoslovakia.
• Unification of Germany:
  • Germany was officially reunified on October 3, 1990, following the fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of the East German government.
• Disintegration of Soviet Union:
  • The Soviet Union officially dissolved on December 26, 1991, marking the end of the Cold War and the emergence of 15 independent republics.
• Assumption of Presidency by Mikhail Gorbachev:
  • Mikhail Gorbachev became the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union on March 11, 1985, introducing key reforms such as glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring).
• INF Treaty:
  • The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty was signed on December 8, 1987, by the United States and the Soviet Union, marking a significant step in nuclear disarmament.

Additional Information

• Option 1:
  • This option incorrectly lists the events in an order that does not match their actual chronological occurrence.
• Option 2:
  • This option incorrectly places the disintegration of the Soviet Union before the demise of Communism in East Europe and the unification of Germany.
• Option 4:
  • This option incorrectly lists the events in an order that places the unification of Germany after the disintegration of the Soviet Union.

The correct answer is Geneva.

Explanation: The second Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) is a significant event in the history of international trade. It was held in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 18 to May 20, 1998. This conference was particularly noteworthy as it coincided with the 50th anniversary of the multilateral trading system initiated under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which was the predecessor to the WTO.

Key Points

• Anniversary Celebrations: The event was used to celebrate and reflect on five decades of the multilateral trading system. Since the establishment of the GATT in 1948, the system had played a central role in regulating international trade, reducing tariffs, and setting the ground rules for global commerce. The conference provided an opportunity for member states to assess the progress made since the creation of the WTO in 1995 and to reaffirm their commitment to a rules-based trading system.
• Agenda and Discussions: The Geneva conference served as a platform for discussions on a wide range of issues affecting the global trading system. Topics included the implementation of agreements reached during the Uruguay Round (the 8th round of multilateral trade negotiations conducted within the framework of the GATT, which led to the creation of the WTO), issues related to trade and investment, and the integration of developing countries into the global trading system.
• Challenges and Criticisms: The conference was not without its challenges and criticisms. There were significant debates and disagreements among member countries on various issues, including agricultural trade, services, and intellectual property rights. Moreover, the conference took place against a backdrop of increasing concerns about globalization and its impacts on developing nations, labor rights, and the environment. These concerns were highlighted by various non-governmental organizations and civil society groups, some of which staged protests during the conference.
• Outcomes: While the conference did not result in significant breakthroughs in ongoing trade negotiations, it did reaffirm the WTO's role in governing international trade and underscored the importance of a multilateral trading system. The member states reiterated their commitment to the principles of the WTO and pledged to continue working on unresolved issues.

 Additional Information

• The second Ministerial Conference of the WTO was a pivotal moment that reflected both the achievements and challenges of the multilateral trading system.
• It underscored the complexities of global trade negotiations and highlighted the need for continued dialogue and cooperation among nations to address the evolving challenges of international trade.

The correct answer is 1, 2 and 3 .

Explanation: These statements about the People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China have elements of historical accuracy.

 Key Points

• The PLA was formed in the year 1927: This is accurate. The PLA, initially known as the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army, was established during the Nanchang Uprising on August 1, 1927. This date is celebrated as the founding day of the PLA.
• The name PLA was given to it after the Japanese attacked China in 1937: The PLA did engage in significant combat against Japanese forces during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937-1945), which was part of World War II, but the name change to "People's Liberation Army" came later.
• Zhu De and Mao Zedong were the main founders of PLA: Zhu De and Mao Zedong are considered key figures in the founding and early development of the PLA. Zhu De was a prominent military leader, and Mao Zedong provided ideological guidance and leadership, particularly during the Long March and the establishment of revolutionary bases in rural China.

 Additional Information

These points touch upon significant historical events and figures related to the PLA's formation and evolution.

The correct answer is 'C, E, B, A, D'

Key Points

• Chronological Order of the Treaties and Agreements:
  • India and Pakistan signed the Indus Water Treaty (C):
    • Signed in 1960, the Indus Water Treaty is an agreement between India and Pakistan on the sharing of water from the Indus River system.
  • India and Pakistan signed the Tashkent Agreement (E):
    • Signed in 1966, the Tashkent Agreement was a peace agreement between India and Pakistan, which ended the 1965 Indo-Pakistani War.
  • India and Pakistan signed the Shimla Agreement (B):
    • Signed in 1972, the Shimla Agreement was aimed at resolving the conflict and establishing peace following the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War.
  • India and Bangladesh signed the Farakka Treaty (A):
    • Signed in 1996, the Farakka Treaty is an agreement between India and Bangladesh on the sharing of the Ganga River water.
  • Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee undertook a bus journey to Lahore and signed a declaration (D):
    • In 1999, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee took a bus journey to Lahore, where he signed the Lahore Declaration, a bilateral agreement between India and Pakistan aimed at improving relations between the two countries.

Additional Information

• Explanation of Incorrect Options:
  • Option 1 (A, B, C, D, E):
    • This option places the Farakka Treaty first, which was actually signed much later in 1996. It also incorrectly orders the Shimla Agreement and the Indus Water Treaty.
  • Option 3 (C, B, A, E, D):
    • This option incorrectly places the Tashkent Agreement after the Farakka Treaty and Shimla Agreement, which is not in chronological order.
  • Option 4 (E, C, B, A, D):
    • This option incorrectly places the Tashkent Agreement before the Indus Water Treaty, which is not correct as the Indus Water Treaty was signed earlier in 1960.

The correct answer is 1, 2, and 3 are correct.

Explanation: India and Russia collaborate in space technology, and the USA considers India a key defence partner. Both India and China were founding members of the UN. 

 Key PointsEach of these statements touches on different aspects of India's international relations and its role in global affairs. Let's delve into each one:

India and Russia's Partnership in Space Technology:
India and Russia have a longstanding relationship in various sectors, including space technology. This partnership dates back to the Cold War era when India was one of the countries that received significant support from the Soviet Union in developing its space program. Key highlights of this collaboration include:

• Early Collaboration: India's first astronaut, Rakesh Sharma, went to space aboard a Soviet spacecraft, Soyuz T-11, in 1984. This mission, part of the Intercosmos program, was a significant milestone in India-Russia space cooperation.
• Technology Transfer and Assistance: Over the years, Russia has assisted India in developing its satellite technology. The Russian support has been crucial in areas like cryogenic rocket technology, which is essential for launching heavier payloads.
• Joint Missions and Projects: Both countries have expressed interest in collaborative projects, such as joint lunar missions and development of satellites. The cooperation extends to sharing expertise, technology, and potentially, joint missions in the future.
• Strategic Alignment: This partnership aligns with India's broader strategy of maintaining strong technological and scientific ties with multiple global powers, balancing its relationships especially in areas like space exploration.

USA's View of India as a Major Defence Partner in the Indo-Pacific Region:

The USA's designation of India as a major defense partner reflects a significant evolution in their bilateral relations, particularly in the strategic and defense domains. This perspective is influenced by several factors:

• Strategic Counterbalance: The U.S. views India as a pivotal player in the Indo-Pacific region to counterbalance the growing influence of China. The collaboration is seen as vital for maintaining regional stability and security.
• Defense Agreements and Sales: The U.S. and India have signed several key defense agreements, facilitating easier transfer of defense technology and strengthening military-to-military relations. There has been a significant increase in defense sales from the U.S. to India.
• Joint Military Exercises: The two countries participate in various joint military exercises, demonstrating their operational synergy and commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Quad Alliance: India's involvement in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), which includes the U.S., Japan, and Australia, further cements its role as a strategic partner in the region.

India as a Founding Member of the United Nations Along with China:

India's role as a founding member of the United Nations is an important part of its historical engagement with global affairs.

• Historical Context: India, despite being under British colonial rule at the time, was among the original 51 countries that participated in the United Nations Conference on International Organization in San Francisco in 1945. This conference led to the creation of the United Nations Charter.
• Active Participation: Since its independence in 1947, India has been an active participant in the UN, contributing to various aspects of the organization, including peacekeeping operations.
• China's Role: China, then represented by the Republic of China (Taiwan), was also a founding member of the UN. The People's Republic of China later replaced Taiwan in the United Nations in 1971.

 Additional Information

• India's involvement in the UN from its inception signifies its commitment to multilateralism and global cooperation, despite its colonial status at the time.
• These points reflect the multifaceted nature of India's international relations and its strategic position in global politics and technology.

The coreect answer is option 3.

Key Points

• On 11 December 2001, China officially joined the WTO. Its achievements since then have been truly remarkable. In 2001, China was the sixth largest exporter of goods in the world (fourth, if the European Union is counted as one unit). Since 2009, it has been the world’s largest goods exporter, surpassing even the EU bloc from 2014 onwards. 
• Fast export (and import) growth has boosted GDP growth and income levels. According to the IMF’s April 2021 WEO database, China’s GDP amounted to barely 13% of the US GDP in 2001.
• Twenty years later, this ratio is likely to reach 73%. During the same period, China’s per capita income (measured at purchasing power parities) rose from the level of Sudan in 2001 to nearly the level of Mexico today. 
• But China’s integration in the world economy has created frictions, especially with the US, which has long had massive trade deficits with China. In 2019, US goods and services trade with China totalled an estimated $635 billion.
• Exports were $163 billion; imports were $472 billion. The US goods and services trade deficit with China was $3091 – a far cry from the forecast when China joined the WTO (see the first column in this three-part series here).
• Economists rightly argue that bilateral trade balances reflect many factors other than trade policies and that the WTO is about establishing competitive opportunities for nations to exploit their comparative advantage, not about having bilateral balanced trade. But the politics of trade in different, especially in the US.

The correct answer is 'Operates with a strong ideological commitment and a disciplined membership structure'.

Key Points

• Cadre-based party:
  • These parties have a well-defined ideology that guides their policies and actions.
  • They maintain a structured and disciplined membership, often with a clear hierarchy and organizational framework.
  • Members are typically trained and indoctrinated in the party’s ideology and are expected to adhere strictly to its principles.
  • Examples in India include the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) which supports the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Additional Information

• Popular mass movements:
  • Parties driven by popular mass movements without a formal structure.
  • These parties rely on the momentum of public support and may not have a strict organizational hierarchy or long-term ideological commitment.
• Focus on electoral success:
  • Parties that focus solely on winning elections and might not have a specific organizational hierarchy.
  • Their primary goal is to gain power rather than promoting a consistent ideology.
• Dependency on alliances:
  •  Parties that depend on alliances with other parties to maintain their presence in the government.
  • These parties might not have a strong cadre-based structure and rely on coalition politics to stay relevant.

The correct answer is (B), (D), (C), (A). 

Key Points

• Korean War (1950-1953):
  • The Korean War began in June 1950 when North Korean forces, supported by the Soviet Union and China, invaded South Korea.
  • The conflict was one of the first major military clashes of the Cold War and ended in 1953 with an armistice agreement, though no formal peace treaty was signed.
• Soviet invasion of Hungary (1956):
  • In 1956, the Soviet Union invaded Hungary to suppress a nationwide revolt against the government and its Soviet-imposed policies.
  • This invasion was a significant Cold War event that demonstrated the Soviet Union's determination to maintain control over its satellite states in Eastern Europe.
• Berlin Wall (1961):
  • The Berlin Wall was constructed by the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) in 1961 to prevent East Germans from fleeing to West Berlin.
  • The Wall became a powerful symbol of the Cold War, representing the division between the communist East and the capitalist West.
• Soviet invasion of Afghanistan (1979):
  • The Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in December 1979 to support the communist government against insurgent groups.
  • This invasion led to a prolonged conflict and significant international condemnation, further straining Cold War tensions.

The correct answer is B and E only.

Key Points

Ethnic conflict in Srilanka:

• Sri Lanka has retained democracy since its independence in 1948.
• But it faced a serious challenge, not from the military or monarchy but rather from ethnic conflict leading to the demand for secession by one of the regions.
• After its independence, politics in Sri Lanka (it was then known as Ceylon) was dominated by forces that represented the interest of the majority Sinhala community.
• They were hostile to a large number of Tamils who had migrated from India to Sri Lanka and settled there.  This migration continued even after independence.
• The Majority Sinhala nationalists thought that Sri Lanka should not give ‘concessions’ to the Tamils because Sri Lanka belongs to the Sinhala people only. Hence, statement B is incorrect.
• The neglect of Tamil concerns led to militant Tamil nationalism. From 1983 onwards, the militant organisation, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has been fighting an armed struggle with the army of Sri Lanka and demanding ‘Tamil Eelam’ or a separate country for the Tamils of Sri Lanka. Hence, statement A is correct.
• The Sri Lankan problem involves people of Indian origin, and there is considerable pressure from the Tamil people in India to the effect that the Indian government should protect the interests of the Tamils in Sri Lanka.
• In 1987, the government of India for the first time got directly involved in the Sri Lankan Tamil question.
• India signed an accord with Sri Lanka and sent troops to stabilise relations between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamils. Hence, statement C is correct.
• Eventually, the Indian Army got into a fight with the LTTE.
• In 1989, the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) pulled out of Sri Lanka without attaining its objective. Hence, statement E is not correct.
• The Sri Lankan crisis continues to be violent. However, international actors, particularly the Scandinavian countries such as Norway and Iceland have been trying to bring the warring groups back to negotiations. Hence, statement D is  correct.

The correct answer is India-Sri Lanka peace accord signed by Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and President J. R. Jayawardene 

Explanation:

The intervention of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) in Sri Lanka in the late 1980s was a significant event in the histories of both India and Sri Lanka, marking a complex chapter in the relations between the two South Asian neighbors. The deployment of the IPKF was a direct consequence of the India-Sri Lanka Peace Accord, also known as the Indo-Lanka Accord, signed on July 29, 1987, by Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sri Lankan President J. R. Jayewardene. This agreement aimed to resolve the ongoing civil conflict in Sri Lanka, particularly focusing on the ethnic tensions between the Sinhalese majority and the Tamil minority in the northern and eastern parts of the island.

 Key Points

• Background to the Accord: The ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka had escalated into a civil war by the early 1980s, with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) fighting for an independent Tamil state in the North and East of Sri Lanka.
• India, with its significant Tamil population in the state of Tamil Nadu, was concerned about the conflict and its spill-over effects. This concern, combined with geopolitical interests, led India to become involved in mediation efforts.
• Terms of the Accord: The India-Sri Lanka Peace Accord proposed a political solution by recognizing the territorial integrity of Sri Lanka while providing for greater autonomy to the Tamil-populated regions through the establishment of provincial councils.
• The accord also called for the disarmament of militant groups, including the LTTE, and the withdrawal of the Sri Lankan Army from Tamil-majority areas, to be followed by an IPKF presence to maintain peace during the transition.
• Deployment and Activities of the IPKF: The IPKF was deployed to Sri Lanka shortly after the signing of the accord, initially envisaged as a peacekeeping mission to oversee the disarmament of Tamil insurgent groups and to stabilize the region.
• However, the situation quickly deteriorated, with the LTTE refusing to disarm and hostile engagements between the LTTE and the IPKF. The mission, which was meant to bring peace, turned into a military confrontation, resulting in casualties on all sides, including civilians. 

Additional Information

• The presence of the IPKF in Sri Lanka became highly controversial, with criticism from both Sri Lankan and Indian sides. In Sri Lanka, there was a strong sentiment against what was perceived as Indian intervention in the country's sovereign affairs. In India, there was disbelief and disappointment over the IPKF's entanglement in conflict rather than achieving peace.
• The IPKF withdrew from Sri Lanka in March 1990, following the change in both countries' leadership and a mutual agreement on its withdrawal.
• The IPKF operation's legacy is mixed, with it being a subject of analysis in discussions on international peacekeeping, regional politics, and the complexities of ethnic conflicts.

In conclusion, the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) was dispatched to Sri Lanka as an integral part of the India-Sri Lanka Peace Accord signed by Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and President J. R. Jayewardene in 1987. The mission, which intended to establish peace and facilitate a political resolution to the ethnic conflict, eventually found itself mired in the complexities and violence of the civil war, reflecting the challenges of international peacekeeping efforts in internal conflicts.

The correct answer is Water dispute.

Key Points

• The Farakka Barrage was created by India in 1975 to divert water from the Ganges River system.
• Bangladesh is a lower riparian country that heavily relies on the flow of the Ganges to meet its food and water demands, any change in the flow of the Ganges significantly affects it.
• The Ganges Water Treaty has a limited ability to meet the current needs of both India and Bangladesh.
• This Barrage comprises of 109 nos. of Gates.
• The barrage is about 2,304 meters (7,559 ft) long.

Important Points

• Maithon Dam on the Damodar river is located in Jharkhand.
• Durgapur Barrage on Damodar river is located in Bardhaman district, West Bengal.
• Teesta Dam on Teesta river is situated in the East Sikkim district (height is 87 meters).

The correct answer is 2008. 

Important Points

•  Events leading to the establishment of federal democratic republic:

1. In 2001, the then king Birendra was assassinated and King Gyanendra came to power.
2. He dismissed the elected government and took all control in his hands.
3. Consequently, a popular struggle took place in 2006 led by the major political parties of Nepal. 
4. The main demand was the restoration of popular control with establishment of democratic government formed according to the guidelines of newly appointed constituent assembly. 
5. The Constituent Assembly election was held on April 10, 2008. 
6. On May 28, 2008, the newly elected Constituent Assembly declared Nepal a Federal Democratic Republic, abolishing the 240-year-old monarchy.
7. Nepal today has a President as Head of State and a Prime Minister heading the Government.

The correct Answer is B, C, D only 

Explanation:

• "Total Revolution" is indeed related to Jayaprakash Narayan (JP Narayan), a prominent Indian freedom fighter, social reformer, and political leader

 Key Points

• Jayaprakash Narayan, often referred to as JP, was a key figure in India's struggle for independence from British rule and later became a significant leader in the post-independence era as well.
• "Total Revolution" was a concept and movement introduced by Jayaprakash Narayan in the 1970s as a response to what he perceived as the growing corruption, social inequalities, and authoritarianism in Indian politics and society.
• He believed that the existing political and economic systems were failing to address the needs and aspirations of the common people.
• JP Narayan emphasized the principle of "Sarvodaya," which means the welfare and progress of all sections of society.
• The concept of "Total Revolution" called for fundamental changes in the political and economic structures of India.
• Narayan believed that true development could only be achieved by empowering rural communities.
• JP Narayan aimed to unite various sections of society, including farmers, laborers, students, and intellectuals, to collectively bring about transformative change through mass movements and protests.

India's contribution to United Nations peacekeeping operations extends beyond troop deployment. It includes offering technical expertise and training to peacekeeping personnel from other countries.

Key Points

• Offering technical expertise and training to peacekeeping personnel from other countries:
  • India has been a significant contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, not only in terms of sending troops but also by providing valuable technical expertise and training.
  • This contribution is critical in enhancing the capabilities of peacekeeping personnel from various countries, ensuring they are better prepared to handle complex situations in the field.
  • India's efforts in training and capacity-building are recognized globally, reflecting its commitment to maintaining peace and security.

Additional Information

• Providing financial support to UN peacekeeping missions:
  • While financial contributions are crucial, this option does not capture the full extent of India's involvement in UN peacekeeping efforts.
• Advocating for peacebuilding initiatives and conflict resolution strategies in the General Assembly:
  • India plays a role in advocating for peace and conflict resolution, but this is a diplomatic effort rather than a direct contribution to the operational aspects of peacekeeping.
• Donating military equipment and logistical support to enhance the effectiveness of peacekeeping missions:
  • Though India has provided equipment and support, the option focusing on technical expertise and training more accurately reflects its unique and significant contributions to UN peacekeeping operations.

The correct answer is Dwight Eisenhower

Key Points

• Atoms for Peace Plan:
  • The ""Atoms for Peace"" plan was proposed by U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower in a speech to the United Nations General Assembly on December 8, 1953.
  • The plan aimed to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and reduce the risk of nuclear weapons proliferation.
  • Eisenhower suggested the creation of an international atomic energy agency to oversee the use of nuclear materials for peaceful purposes.
  • This initiative led to the establishment of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 1957.

Additional Information

• Richard Nixon:
  • Richard Nixon was the 37th President of the United States, serving from 1969 to 1974.
  • He is not associated with the ""Atoms for Peace"" plan.
• Harry Truman:
  • Harry Truman was the 33rd President of the United States, serving from 1945 to 1953.
  • He is known for authorizing the use of atomic bombs during World War II, but he did not propose the ""Atoms for Peace"" plan.
• John F. Kennedy:
  • John F. Kennedy was the 35th President of the United States, serving from 1961 to 1963.
  • He was involved in nuclear disarmament efforts, but the ""Atoms for Peace"" plan was proposed before his presidency.

The correct answer is II, IV, III, I.

Key Points

Communist Party of India

• It is the oldest national party in India
• Formation: 1925
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Ideology: Communism, Marxism, Leninism
• ECI Status: National party

All India Anna Dravida  Munnetra  Kazhagam (AIDMK)

• It is the regional political party of Tamil Nadu and the Puducherry region.
• Formation: 1972
• Founder: M. G. Ramchandran
• Headquarters: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• Ideology: Annaism, Dravidianism, Populism, Social Democracy, Social Justice
• ECI Status: State party

Bharatiya Janata Party

• It is the ruling political party of India
• Founded: 1980
• Founder: Atal Bihari Vajpayee, L. K. Advani
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Ideology: Hindutva, Integral  Humanism, Conservatism, Neoliberalism, Right-wing Populism
• ECI status: National Party

Nationalist Congress Party

• It is one of the major state party of India.
• Founded: 1999
• Founder: Sharad Pawar, P. A. Sangama, Tariq Anwar
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Ideology: Liberalism, Gandhism
• ECI Status: National Party

The correct answer is (b) only.

Key Points

• First Five-Year Plan (1951-56)
  • First Five-year Plan was based on the ‘Herrod-Domar Model’.
  • Agriculture was on topmost priority in this plan.
• Third Five-Year Plan (1961-66):
  • This plan is also called “Gadgil Yojana.”
  • This plan could not achieve its aim of a 5.6% growth rate.
  • Hence, statement B is incorrect.
• Sixth Five-year Plan (1980-85):
  • The basic objective of this Plan was the removal of poverty.
  • The target growth rate, in this plan, was fixed at 5.2% and it achieved successfully 5.7% of the annual rate of growth.
• Tenth Five-Year Plan (2002-07):
  • It could not achieve its target of 8% growth of GDP, but it took the economy to a higher trajectory of growth rate at 7.6% as against 5.5% in the 9th Plan.

Additional Information

• National Planning Committee was set up under the Chairmanship of Jawaharlal Nehru in 1938.
• The Planning Commission was constituted in India in 1950 as a non-constitutional and advisory corporation.

All of the above are correct.Key Points

• Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement, believed in several principles that he considered essential for the realization of freedom.
• Three of these principles were:
• Emancipation from political bondage:
  • Netaji Bose emphasized the importance of freeing India from political subjugation and achieving complete independence from British colonial rule.
  • He believed that political freedom was a fundamental prerequisite for the overall progress and well-being of the Indian people.
• Equal distribution of wealth:
  • Netaji Bose advocated for the equitable distribution of wealth and resources within society.
  • He believed that economic disparities and inequalities were a hindrance to true freedom.
  • He sought to address the socio-economic imbalances prevalent in Indian society, striving for a system where wealth and opportunities were accessible to all, irrespective of their background.
• Abolition of caste barriers:
  • Netaji Bose strongly opposed the caste system and sought its complete abolition.
  • He believed that the rigid social hierarchy based on caste prevented social cohesion and hindered the progress of the nation.
  • He championed the idea of a society where individuals were not discriminated against based on their caste, and everyone had equal rights and opportunities.
• Netaji Bose's vision encompassed not only political freedom but also the pursuit of social justice and economic empowerment.

• He envisioned a free India where all individuals could thrive, irrespective of their social status, and where the nation's resources were utilized for the betterment of all its citizens.

Therefore the correct answer is all of the above.

The correct answer is Option 1.

Key Points

• Mujibur Rahman was a Bengali leader who became the president (1971–72; 1975) and prime minister (1972–75) of Bangladesh.
• Effectionately called The Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was the architect of independent Bangladesh.
• A student political leader, Mujib rose in East Pakistani politics and within the ranks of the Awami League as a charismatic and forceful orator.
• An advocate of socialism, Mujib became popular for his leadership against the ethnic and institutional discrimination of Bengalis. He demanded increased provincial autonomy, and became a fierce opponent of the military rule of Ayub Khan.
• At the heightening of sectional tensions, Mujib outlined a 6-point autonomy plan, which was seen as separatism in West Pakistan. He was tried in 1968 for allegedly conspiring with the Government of Indian government but was not found guilty.
• Despite leading his party to a major victory in the 1970 elections, Mujib was not invited to form the government.
• After talks broke down with President Yahya Khan and West Pakistani politician Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Mujib was arrested and a guerrilla war erupted between government forces and Bengali nationalists. Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 led to the establishment of Bangladesh

The correct answer is 'A, B, C, D'

Key Points

• Andhra Pradesh
  • Formation Date: November 1, 1956
  • Background: Andhra Pradesh was formed by merging the Andhra State with the Telangana region of Hyderabad State, following the recommendations of the States Reorganization Commission. The demand for a separate Andhra State was based on linguistic and cultural identities, which were recognized by the commission.
• Maharashtra
  • Formation Date: May 1, 1960
  • Background: Maharashtra was created on the basis of linguistic identity, following the recommendation of the State Reorganization Commission. The state was formed by bifurcating the Bombay State into Maharashtra (for Marathi-speaking people) and Gujarat (for Gujarati-speaking people). The movement for a separate Maharashtra was led by prominent leaders advocating for the rights of the Marathi-speaking population.
• Gujarat
  • Formation Date: May 1, 1960
  • Background: Gujarat was also formed on the same day as Maharashtra, from the western part of the erstwhile Bombay State. The creation of Gujarat aimed to provide better governance and representation for the Gujarati-speaking people, emphasizing the linguistic basis for the state's formation.
• Haryana
  • Formation Date: November 1, 1966
  • Background: Haryana was carved out of the state of Punjab. The demand for a separate state arose from the need to create a region that would cater specifically to the cultural and linguistic identity of the people in the area. The formation of Haryana was a significant outcome of the Punjab Reorganization Act.

The correct answer is Politics of Defection.
Key Points

• Globalization is rising interconnectedness of world, thus collapsing time and space.
• Indian democracy with globalization led to:
  • Rollback of welfare state: Due to growth in MNCs and rising free market economy
  • Decay of nation-state: Boundaries between nations and states diminishing.
  • De-politicization: Political issues are not regional rather global in nature.
• However, politics of defection is based on needs and demands of political parties.

Thus, among the following challenges to Indian democracy, Politics of defection is not related to globalization.

The correct answer is 'A, B, D Only'

Key Points

• UN declared 1975 as International Women's Year:
  • The United Nations General Assembly designated 1975 as International Women's Year to focus on women's issues and gender equality.
  • This year marked the beginning of the UN Decade for Women (1976-1985), aimed at implementing measures to improve the status of women globally.
• B N Rau Committee prepared the first draft of the Hindu Code Bill:
  • Sir Benegal Narsing Rau was an eminent jurist and a key figure in the drafting of the Indian Constitution.
  • He also prepared the initial draft of the Hindu Code Bill, which aimed to reform Hindu personal law in India.
  • The bill sought to codify and modernize Hindu law, dealing with aspects such as marriage, divorce, succession, and adoption.
• Sunderlal Bahuguna became popular in the Chipko - agitation:
  • Sunderlal Bahuguna was a prominent environmentalist and activist known for his role in the Chipko Movement.
  • The Chipko Movement, which began in the 1970s in the Himalayan region of India, was aimed at preventing deforestation and preserving the environment.
  • The name "Chipko" means "to hug" or "to cling to," and the movement involved villagers, especially women, hugging trees to prevent them from being cut down.

Additional Information

• Kabir was a social reformer in ancient India:
  • Kabir was a 15th-century poet-saint and social reformer, not from ancient India but from the medieval period.
  • He is known for his efforts to bridge the gap between Hinduism and Islam and for his criticisms of caste discrimination and ritualism.
• Subhash Chandra Bose formed Independent Labour Party in 1936:
  • This statement is incorrect as the Independent Labour Party was actually founded by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in 1936.
  • Subhash Chandra Bose was a prominent freedom fighter and leader of the Indian National Army (INA), but he did not form the Independent Labour Party.

The correct answer is International Monetary Fund.

Key Points

• International Monetary Fund (IMF) is one of the biggest moneylenders for any country.
• It has 190 members states and all of them do not have equal voting rights.
• The vote of each country is weighted by how much money it has contributed to the IMF.
• More than 40% of the voting power in IMF is in the hands of only seven countries (US, Japan, Germany, France, UK, Italy).
• The remaining have very little say in how these international organisations take decisions.

 Thus, we can say that one of the biggest moneylenders for any country is the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The correct answer is '1 and 3'

Key Points

• State Reorganization Act of 1956:
  • The State Reorganization Act of 1956 was a significant piece of legislation in India that aimed to reorganize state boundaries primarily on linguistic lines.
  • The Act was influenced by the recommendations of the Fazal Ali Commission, which was appointed to examine the question of state reorganization.
  • The Commission recommended the reorganization of states based on linguistic and cultural homogeneity, leading to the formation of states where people spoke the same language.

Additional Information

• Andhra Pradesh:
  • While the Act did play a role in forming linguistic states, it did not result in the creation of only one new state, Andhra Pradesh. In fact, several states were reorganized, and new states were formed.
  • Andhra Pradesh was formed earlier in 1953 from the Telugu-speaking regions of the erstwhile Madras State, preceding the Act.
• Other Reorganizations:
  • The State Reorganization Act led to the creation and reorganization of several states such as Kerala, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, among others.
  • The Act was a comprehensive attempt to address the demands for linguistic states, thereby leading to significant changes in the political map of India.

The correct answer is '(C) Only'.

Key Points

• Politics of defection:
  • Politics of defection refers to the practice where legislators switch parties, often for personal or political gain.
  • This challenge is more related to the internal political dynamics and electoral strategies within India rather than the global influence of globalization.
  • It undermines political stability and the integrity of the democratic process, but it is not directly linked to globalization.

Additional Information

• De-politicisation:
  • This refers to the reduction of political influence in various sectors, often as a result of global economic policies and neoliberal ideologies.
  • Globalization encourages a focus on economic efficiency over political considerations, leading to a depoliticized approach in governance.
• Roll back of welfare state:
  • Globalization often leads to the reduction of state intervention in social welfare, as economic policies favor market-driven solutions.
  • This can result in decreased public spending on social services and a shift towards privatization.
• Decay of nation-state:
  • Globalization challenges the sovereignty of nation-states by increasing the influence of multinational corporations and international institutions.
  • This can lead to a perceived or actual weakening of national governance structures.
• Crony capitalism:
  • Globalization can exacerbate crony capitalism, where business success is dependent on close relationships with government officials.
  • This leads to an unfair economic environment where political connections outweigh merit and competition.

The correct Answer is South Sudan

Explanation:

• Currently every African country (except South Sudan) is a member of the Non-Aligned Movement.

Key Points

• The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) is a group of countries that are not formally aligned with or against any major power bloc or alliance.
• It was formed during the Cold War era as a way for countries to maintain their independence and sovereignty while avoiding being drawn into the ideological and military conflicts between the two superpowers of the time, the United States and the Soviet Union. 
• The Non-Aligned Movement was officially established in 1961 at the Belgrade Conference, which was attended by leaders from countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
• Some of the founding members included India, Yugoslavia, Egypt, Indonesia, and Ghana.
• The movement aimed to promote peaceful coexistence, mutual cooperation, and the pursuit of national development without interference from external powers.

The correct answer is the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

Key Points

• The International Civil Aviation Organisation is a specialized agency and was established on 4th April 1947. Its headquarters is in Montreal, Canada.
• In October 1947, ICAO became an agency of the United Nations under its Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
• It changes the principles and techniques of international air navigation.
• It also fosters the planning and development of international air transport to ensure safety and orderly growth.

Additional Information

• The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an international organization that seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to inhibit its use for any military purpose, including nuclear weapons.

The correct answer is Cultivating relations with Southeast Asian nations.

Explanation:

The 'Look East' policy, transformed into 'Act East', aimed at building strategic, economic, and cultural relations with Southeast Asian countries, establishing India's presence in the region and providing a balance against China's influence.

The correct answer is Increased cooperation and ties with India's immediate neighbours.

Explanation:

'Neighbourhood First' policy is focused on maintaining regional peace and stability, improving connectivity, executing mutual cooperation, and amplifying development aid to India’s immediate neighbours, countering China's growing influence over South Asia.

The correct answer is Making decisions independent from external influences and focusing on national interests.

Explanation:

The notion of 'Strategic Autonomy’ emphasizes India's approach to base its decisions on its national interests without succumbing to external pressures.

In the context of global politics, this manifests in India delicately navigating relationships amidst the US-China tensions and maintaining engagement in groups like the Quad while preserving its age-old ties with Russia.

The correct answer is  Political, economic, and security cooperation.

Explanation:

The 'Connect Central Asia' policy is initiated to proactively establish a broad-based engagement with Central Asia, focusing on political, economic, and security realms. It underlines India's need to secure energy sources, counter terrorism, and balance regional influences.

The correct answer is United Nations and World Trade Organisation.

Explanation:

India, actively participating at various international forums, has been pushing for holistic reforms in key global institutions, such as the United Nations and World Trade Organisation. Such efforts signify India’s ambition to play a key role in global decision-making and have a more democratized and representative world order.

Jawaharlal Nehru'
Key Points

• Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, was a founding leader of NAM.   
• He, along with Tito (Yugoslavia) and Nasser (Egypt), played a crucial role in formulating NAM's principles and objectives.

Key Points  

• NAM (Non-Alignment Movement) recognized that political independence alone was insufficient for developing countries to achieve true sovereignty and self-sufficiency.
• Economic cooperation among member states was a core focus of NAM, aimed at addressing the underlying challenges of economic disparity, poverty, and unequal trade relations that many nations of the Global South faced.
• This emphasis became especially relevant in the post-colonial period when newly independent nations struggled with economic stagnation, limited industrialization, and exploitative global economic structures.

Key Points

• Statement 1 is correct because NAM's core principle was to safeguard the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of nations.
• Statement 2 is incorrect as NAM specifically rejected alignment with any power bloc.

Avoid alignment with power blocs'.
Key Points

• The main aim of NAM during the Cold War was to help nations remain neutral and independent from the influence of the two superpower blocs (USA and USSR).
• NAM sought to promote peace and avoid military or political alliances.

The correct answer is 'Belgrade Conference'.

Key Points

• The Belgrade Conference of 1961 officially marked the founding of the Non-Alignment Movement.
• Leaders like Nehru, Tito, and Nasser came together to establish a platform for nations to stay neutral during the Cold War.