Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
Q4. “Africa is no longer a beneficiary of development cooperation but a key stakeholder in shaping its future.” Discuss the implications for India’s foreign policy priorities. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: NIE
Why the question
Africa is emerging as a major geopolitical, economic and developmental actor, making India’s engagement with the continent increasingly important in the context of Global South cooperation and multipolarity.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining why Africa should no longer be viewed merely as a recipient of development assistance and how its growing strategic importance should influence India’s foreign policy priorities.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly highlight Africa’s rising demographic, economic and geopolitical significance and its growing role in global governance.
Body
- Africa’s changing role: Show how Africa has evolved from a development beneficiary to an active stakeholder shaping global development, trade, climate and governance agendas.
- Implications for India’s foreign policy: Explain how this shift necessitates recalibration of India’s priorities in areas such as diplomacy, development partnership, economic engagement, technology cooperation and multilateral coordination.
Conclusion
Conclude by highlighting that a stronger India–Africa partnership can become a cornerstone of an inclusive and representative global order while advancing the interests of the Global South.
