Topic: India and its neighbourhood- relations.
Q4. “Cross-border disinformation is the new non-traditional threat in South Asia”. Examine its impact on inter-State relations. Suggest mechanisms to counter such digital aggression. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question
Governments must cease tolerating a disinformation ecosystem that festers unchecked. Censoring media and imprisoning journalists only deepen public mistrust.Key Demand of the question
The question demands an analysis of how cross-border disinformation affects diplomatic and regional stability and seeks practical mechanisms that States can adopt to counter digital aggression without harming democratic values.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly highlight the rise of disinformation as a strategic tool in international relations and its growing influence in South Asia.Body
- Impact on inter-State relations: Discuss how disinformation escalates tensions, distorts diplomacy, fuels communal narratives, and undermines regional cooperation.
- Mechanisms to counter digital aggression: Suggest frameworks like regional pacts, bilateral verification systems, cross-border fact-checking cooperation, legal safeguards, and digital literacy campaigns.
Conclusion
End with a forward-looking line on the need for shared regional truth and digital trust as the foundation for peace in South Asia.
