Topic: Post-independence consolidation.
3. Operation Cactus enhanced India’s prestige enormously and showed our efficiency and capability to mount a successful operation at short notice. Comment. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Indian Express
Why the question:
On November 3, 1988, a group of Maldivians assisted by a Sri Lankan militant organisation unsuccessfully attempted to overthrow the government in the island republic of Maldives.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about operation cactus and its impact on India.
Directive word:
Comment– here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context of Operation Cactus.
Body:
In the first part, mention the reasons for intervention of India in the political turmoil in Maldives.
Next, write about the successes of the operations – especially in terms of India’s military capabilities, commitment to preserving democracy in the neighbourhood etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by linking with present day role of India in its neighbourhood.
