Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations.
4. The changing dynamics of the world order could provide BIMSTEC the opportunity to expand its role. Can BIMSTEC be an alternative to SAARC? Examine. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
June 6 marked the completion of 25 years since the 1997 Bangkok Declaration launched a modest grouping (of Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka and Thailand), with the acronym, BIST-EC. Three countries (Nepal, Bhutan and Myanmar) joined it later to make it the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the role BIMSTEC can play in the changing geopolitics and if it can be an alternative to SAARC.
Directive word:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning the mandate behind the launch of BIMSTEC.
Body:
First, write the role BIMSTEC can play in the changing geopolitics – BIMSTEC allows the confluence of its Act East and the Neighbourhood Policies, development of ‘Blue Economy’, collaboration on security and communication etc.
Next, give context regarding SAARC and examine if BIMSTEC can be a suitable alternative.
Conclusion:
Conclude writing a balanced opinion.
