Answer in detail

VI. Answer in detail

1. Write a detailed note on Non-alignment.

• The new nations that got independence after the long period of colonial struggle found themselves in a very difficult situation with respect to economic development.

• So it was necessary to align with either of the blocs - United States of America (USA) or United Soviet Socialist Republic (USSR).

• Nehru, India's first Prime Minister, was opposed to the rivalry of the two superpowers (America and Russia) who were trying to extend their influence over the newly emerged nations of Asia and Africa.

• So he chose the path of Non-Alignment (i.e., not aligning with any bloc) in the face of the cold war.

• He tried to form a third bloc of nations in international affairs.

• The term 'Non-Alignment' was coined by V. Krishna Menon.

• Non-alignment has been regarded as the most important feature of India's foreign policy.

• It aimed to maintain national independence in foreign affairs by not joining any military alliance.

• NAM was formed with a membership of 120 countries.

• Jawaharlal Nehru of India, Tito of Yugoslavia, Nasser of Egypt, Sukarno of Indonesia, and Nkumarah of Ghana were the founding fathers of NAM.

• The Non-aligned countries have established a foundation of economic co-operation among underdeveloped countries.

• Now it has transformed from a political movement to an economic movement.

2. Discuss the core determinants of India’s foreign policy?

• Geographical position and size of territory

• Nation's history, traditions and philosophical basis

• Natural resources

• The compulsion of economic development

• Political stability and structure of government

• The necessity of peace, disarmament and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons

• Military strength

• International milieu

3. Make any two basic concepts followed by India to maintain friendly relations with its neighbours.

1. Prioritising an integrated neighbourhood:

• India's foreign poiicy has always regarded the concept of neighbourhood as one of widening concentric circles, around the central axis of historical and cultural commonalties.

• India gives political and diplomatic priority to her immediate neighbours.

• It is understood that a peaceful periphery is essential for India to achieve her multi farious developmental goals.

• India provides her neighbours with support in the form of resources, equipment and training.

• Greater connectivity and integration is provided so as to improve the free flow of goods, people, energy, capital and information.

2. Bridging diplomacy and development:

• The object of India's foreign policy has been to leverage international partnership for India's domestic development.

• This includes improving technological access, sourcing capital, gaining market access and securing natural resources.

VII. Project and activity

1. Identify any two aspects of India’s foreign policy that you would like to retain and to change if you were the decision maker.