Topic: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing.
5. India’s relationship with ASEAN is a key pillar of our foreign policy and the foundation of our Act East Policy. Analyse the significance of India- ASEAN strategic partnership and its implications on India (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: New Indian Express
Why the question:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend virtually the annual ASEAN-India summit that will review the status of strategic partnership between the two sides and take stock of progress made in areas of trade and investment, post-COVID-19 economic recovery and connectivity.
Key Demand of the question:
To understand the role of strategic partnership with ASEAN and its mutual benefits for both sides.
Directive word:
Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning the historic engagement of India-ASEAN relationship.
Body:
Bring out the importance of geographical proximity of the ASEAN countries and its strategic, security and economic implications to India. Also mention about the sociocultural dynamics, mobilisation of group level funds and promotion of domestic infrastructure projects based on few examples.
Next, write about the implications of the above on India.
Conclusion:
Conclude by stating that a good relation with ASEAN nations is crucial for India, in order for India to look beyond its neighbours, in its global diplomatic journey.
