Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate
Q4. “India’s claim for permanent membership of the UN Security Council rests not merely on its growing capabilities but also on its consistent commitment to multilateralism.” Discuss. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question
The demand for UN Security Council reforms has gained renewed momentum amid changing geopolitical realities, with India’s candidature receiving increasing international support while reform negotiations remain stalled.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires discussing how India’s claim is strengthened by both its growing national capabilities and its commitment to multilateralism. It also requires examining the challenges to India’s permanent membership and suggesting the way forward.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Highlight the need for a representative and credible UN Security Council in the changing global order and India’s growing relevance.
Body
- India’s growing capabilities: Discuss how India’s economic, strategic, demographic and geopolitical rise strengthens its candidature.
- Commitment to multilateralism: Explain India’s contributions to peacekeeping, global governance and rules-based international order.
- Challenges: Highlight the major diplomatic, political and institutional obstacles to India’s permanent membership.
- Way forward: Suggest diplomatic, institutional and strategic measures to advance India’s candidature and UNSC reforms.
Conclusion
Conclude by emphasizing that a reformed UNSC with India as a permanent member would enhance the legitimacy, effectiveness and representativeness of global governance.
