BPSE-144 Solved Assignment 2025
Assignment – I
Answer the following in about 500 words each.
Question:-1
Analyse the implications of Cold-war in South Asia.
Answer:
1. Introduction: The Cold War's Strategic Penetration into South Asia
The Cold War's bipolar rivalry between the United States and Soviet Union profoundly shaped South Asia's political trajectory, security architecture, and economic development from 1947 to 1991. As a region bordering Communist China and containing newly independent states, South Asia became a contested space where superpower competition intersected with local conflicts, nationalist aspirations, and developmental challenges. The implications of this geopolitical struggle manifested in military alliances, regional conflicts, and ideological battles that continue to influence contemporary South Asian dynamics.
2. Military Alliances and Security Dilemmas
The Cold War transformed South Asia into a theater of strategic competition through formal defense pacts and arms proliferation. Pakistan's 1954 alliance with the U.S. through SEATO and CENTO positioned it as a Western bulwark against Soviet expansion, receiving advanced weaponry that altered the subcontinent's military balance. In contrast, India's Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) stance masked a tilt toward the USSR, cemented by the 1971 Indo-Soviet Treaty that guaranteed security support during the Bangladesh War.
These alignments exacerbated the India-Pakistan rivalry, with each conflict (1947, 1965, 1971) becoming proxy battlegrounds. The U.S. arms supply to Pakistan and Soviet support for India fueled an arms race that later culminated in nuclear proliferation. The Soviet-Afghan War (1979-1989) further destabilized the region, as U.S.-backed mujahideen operations in Pakistan spawned militant networks with lasting consequences.
3. Economic Models and Developmental Pathways
Superpower competition influenced South Asia's economic policies through aid and ideological conditioning. India's initial socialist planning reflected Soviet-inspired state industrialization, supported by USSR technical assistance in sectors like steel (Bhilai) and energy. Conversely, Pakistan embraced capitalist models under U.S. patronage, receiving $5 billion in aid (1954-1965) for infrastructure projects like the Mangla Dam.
The Cold War also shaped regional integration. U.S. support for Pakistan hindered SAARC's effectiveness, while Soviet backing of India's regional dominance created tensions with smaller neighbors like Nepal and Sri Lanka. The legacy of these divided loyalties persists in contemporary economic blocs and BRI vs. Quad alignments.
4. Ideological Contestations and Internal Conflicts
The superpower struggle amplified regional ideological fractures. In Afghanistan, the Communist PDPA's rise (1978) triggered a civil war that drew in Pakistan and the U.S., creating refugee crises and radicalization spillovers into Pakistan's tribal areas. India's leftist movements (e.g., Naxalites) gained momentum with Maoist inspiration, while Pakistan's Islamist groups were weaponized against Soviet interests.
Even non-aligned states faced polarization: Sri Lanka's 1971 JVP insurrection mirrored global leftist revolts, and Bangladesh's 1975 coup reflected Cold War realpolitik. These interventions distorted democratic processes, with military regimes in Pakistan (Ayub, Zia) and Bangladesh (Ershad) gaining superpower backing despite authoritarianism.
5. Long-Term Strategic Consequences
The Cold War's end reshaped but did not erase its South Asian imprint. Three key legacies endure:
- Nuclearization: The U.S. tolerance of Pakistan's nuclear program (1980s) and India's 1974 test (with Soviet reactors) laid groundwork for the 1998 nuclear tests.
- Militancy: Afghanistan-Pakistan border radicalization birthed groups like the Taliban, with 9/11 linking South Asian security to global terrorism.
- Strategic Alignments: Post-Cold War U.S.-India rapprochement and China's CPEC investments in Pakistan reflect reconfigurations of earlier blocs.
Conclusion
The Cold War's South Asian implications reveal how global rivalries can distort regional stability, militarize conflicts, and constrain developmental sovereignty. While the bipolar era formally ended, its fingerprints remain visible in the India-Pakistan nuclear standoff, Afghanistan's fragility, and the region's ongoing great-power hedging. Understanding these historical entanglements is crucial for addressing contemporary challenges, from conflict resolution to economic cooperation in an increasingly multipolar world.
Question:-2
Analyse ethnic conflicts in South Asia.
Answer:
1. Introduction: The Crucible of Ethnic Diversity in South Asia
South Asia, home to nearly 2 billion people, represents one of the world's most ethnically complex regions, where linguistic, religious, and tribal identities frequently intersect with political boundaries. The post-colonial state formations in this region created a volatile mix where ethnic aspirations often clashed with centralized nation-building projects. From the Kashmir Valley to the Chittagong Hill Tracts, ethnic conflicts have shaped South Asia's political landscape through insurgencies, separatist movements, and communal violence, often exacerbated by colonial legacies and contemporary geopolitics.
2. Historical Roots of Ethnic Tensions
The arbitrary borders drawn during the 1947 Partition established the foundation for enduring ethnic conflicts. The Radcliffe Line divided not just territories but ethnic communities like the Punjabis and Bengalis, creating minority grievances on both sides. Post-independence governments inherited colonial administrative structures that favored certain ethnic groups over others, particularly in military recruitment and civil service allocations.
In Sri Lanka, the British colonial "divide and rule" policy privileged Tamil minorities in bureaucracy, sowing seeds for the later Sinhala-Tamil conflict. Similarly, Pakistan's imposition of Urdu as the sole national language alienated East Pakistan's Bengali majority, culminating in the 1971 liberation war. These historical injustices created persistent narratives of marginalization that continue to fuel conflicts.
3. Major Contemporary Ethnic Conflicts
Three primary patterns characterize South Asia's ethnic strife:
Secessionist Movements
The Kashmir conflict represents the most internationalized ethnic dispute, where Muslim-majority aspirations clash with India's constitutional integration. Pakistan's sponsorship of militant groups and India's heavy militarization have perpetuated cycles of violence. Similar dynamics appear in Balochistan, where the Baloch nationalist movement resists Punjabi-dominated governance through insurgency.
Indigenous Rights Struggles
In India's Northeast, Naga and Assamese movements combine ethnic nationalism with anti-migration sentiments against Bengali Muslims. The Bodoland conflict demonstrates how tribal autonomy demands can escalate into violent ethnic cleansing. Bangladesh's Chittagong Hill Tracts conflict mirrors this, with indigenous Jumma peoples resisting Bengali settler colonialism.
Urban Communal Violence
Periodic Hindu-Muslim riots in India (1992 Mumbai, 2002 Gujarat) and anti-Hindu/Ahmadi violence in Pakistan reveal how ethnic identities become weaponized in electoral politics. Myanmar's Rohingya crisis has spilled over into Bangladesh, creating one of the world's worst refugee emergencies.
4. Structural Drivers of Conflict
Several interconnected factors sustain these conflicts:
- Majoritarian Constitutionalism: Legal frameworks privileging dominant groups (e.g., Sri Lanka's Sinhala-only laws, India's citizenship amendments) institutionalize ethnic hierarchies.
- Resource Competition: Land and water disputes often acquire ethnic dimensions, as seen in Sindh's resistance to Punjab's water diversions.
- Security State Approaches: Heavy militarization of ethnic regions (Kashmir, CHT) breeds resentment while failing to address political grievances.
- External Interference: Cross-border support for insurgents (Pakistan's ISI in Kashmir, India's alleged backing for Baloch rebels) internationalizes local conflicts.
5. Conflict Resolution Challenges
Traditional state responses—military suppression, token autonomy packages, or forced assimilation—have largely failed. The 2005 Aceh peace agreement in Indonesia offers potential lessons for negotiated settlements, but South Asia's geopolitical rivalries complicate third-party mediation. Grassroots initiatives like Nepal's ethnic federalism experiment demonstrate alternative approaches, though implementation remains contentious.
Conclusion
South Asia's ethnic conflicts represent not primordial hatreds but the collision of modern state-building with diverse civilizational identities. Lasting solutions require moving beyond security-centric approaches to address historical justice, resource equity, and meaningful federalism. As climate change and urbanization intensify competition, the region must develop inclusive governance models that transform its celebrated diversity from a source of conflict to a foundation for pluralist democracy. The cost of failure is measured not just in human lives but in the erosion of the very idea of multi-ethnic nationhood in this densely populated, nuclear-armed region.
Assignment – II
Answer the following questions in about 250 words each.
Question:-1
Explain the implications of Ganga Water Treaty.
Answer:
Implications of the Ganga Water Treaty
The Ganga Water Treaty (1996) between India and Bangladesh governs the sharing of the Ganges River's waters, particularly at the Farakka Barrage. This landmark agreement has significant political, economic, and environmental implications for both nations.
1. Political Implications
The treaty eased long-standing tensions over water distribution, fostering bilateral cooperation. By establishing a structured mechanism for water sharing during dry seasons (January–May), it reduced conflicts and built trust. However, disputes occasionally resurface, especially when water flow falls below agreed levels, highlighting the need for adaptive diplomacy.
2. Economic and Ecological Impact
For Bangladesh, the treaty secured critical water supplies for agriculture, fisheries, and navigation in its southwest region, boosting livelihoods. However, siltation and reduced downstream flow continue to affect the Sundarbans ecosystem, threatening biodiversity.
India benefits from maintaining the Farakka Barrage for irrigation and preventing salinity intrusion in Kolkata’s port. Yet, over-reliance on diverted water has led to ecological degradation in Bihar and West Bengal.
3. Future Challenges
Climate change and glacial retreat in the Himalayas may alter river flow, necessitating treaty revisions. Increasing demand for water in both countries calls for expanded cooperation, possibly including other rivers like the Teesta.
Conclusion
The Ganga Water Treaty remains a crucial framework for transboundary water management, but evolving hydrological and geopolitical realities demand periodic review to ensure equitable and sustainable use.
Question:-2
Analyse China's policy towards South Asia.
Answer:
China’s Strategic Policy Towards South Asia
China’s approach to South Asia is driven by economic, geopolitical, and security interests, making it a key player in the region. Its policy revolves around three core strategies: economic engagement, strategic partnerships, and containment of rivals.
1. Economic Dominance through BRI
China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is central to its South Asia policy, with massive infrastructure investments in Pakistan (CPEC), Sri Lanka (Hambantota Port), and Nepal (Trans-Himalayan Railway). These projects deepen economic dependence while expanding China’s strategic footprint. However, debt-trap diplomacy accusations and local backlash, as seen in Sri Lanka’s port lease, pose challenges.
2. Strategic Alliances & Border Disputes
China strengthens ties with Pakistan through military and nuclear cooperation, countering India’s influence. Simultaneously, it engages with Bangladesh, Nepal, and the Maldives via trade and defense deals, often sidelining India. However, unresolved border disputes with India (e.g., Doklam, Galwan clashes) and support for Pakistan on Kashmir escalate regional tensions.
3. Balancing US & Regional Influence
To counter US-India partnerships (e.g., Quad), China cultivates ties with smaller states, offering loans and diplomatic support. Its veto power in the UN shields Pakistan from scrutiny on terrorism, reinforcing its role as a regional power broker.
Conclusion
China’s South Asia policy combines economic leverage with strategic maneuvering to limit India’s rise and counter US influence. While infrastructure investments foster short-term partnerships, long-term sustainability depends on addressing debt concerns and territorial disputes. As competition intensifies, regional stability hinges on balanced engagement from South Asian nations.
Question:-3
Explain major challenges of the neighbourhood first policy of India.
Answer:
Challenges of India's Neighbourhood First Policy
India's Neighbourhood First Policy aims to strengthen ties with South Asian countries through economic cooperation, security partnerships, and cultural diplomacy. However, several persistent challenges hinder its success:
1. China’s Growing Influence
China’s aggressive infrastructure investments (BRI, CPEC) and military partnerships with Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka undermine India’s regional dominance. Smaller neighbours often play the "China card" to negotiate better terms with India, weakening New Delhi’s leverage.
2. Bilateral Disputes & Trust Deficits
- Pakistan: Cross-border terrorism and Kashmir tensions block meaningful engagement.
- Nepal: Border disputes (e.g., Kalapani) and China-aligned factions strain ties.
- Bangladesh: Despite strong ties, issues like the CAA-NRC and Teesta water-sharing persist.
- Sri Lanka: Pro-China policies and delayed Indian projects (e.g., Colombo Port) reflect wavering trust.
3. Economic Limitations
India’s aid and investment packages often lag behind China’s in scale and speed. Bureaucratic delays, such as in cross-border energy projects with Nepal and Bhutan, erode confidence in India’s commitments.
4. Internal Instability in Neighbouring States
Political crises in Myanmar (military junta), Afghanistan (Taliban rule), and Sri Lanka (economic collapse) force India to balance humanitarian aid with strategic interests, complicating policy consistency.
5. Perception of Big-Brother Attitude
Smaller nations resent India’s perceived dominance, leading to resistance (e.g., Nepal’s new map claim, Maldives’ "India Out" campaign).
Way Forward
To counter these challenges, India must accelerate project delivery, offer transparent agreements, and adopt flexible diplomacy. A collaborative, non-transactional approach—rather than reactive measures—could restore its regional leadership.
Assignment – III
Answer the following questions in about 100 words each.
Question:-1
New Taliban Regime.
Answer:
New Taliban Regime in Afghanistan
The Taliban regained power in Afghanistan in 2021 after the US withdrawal, establishing an Islamic Emirate. Despite initial promises of moderate governance, the regime has imposed strict Sharia laws, restricting women's rights, education, and press freedom. The economy has collapsed due to international sanctions and frozen assets, worsening humanitarian crises. While engaging with regional powers like China and Pakistan for legitimacy, the Taliban faces internal dissent and threats from ISIS-K. Global recognition remains limited as human rights violations persist. The regime's sustainability depends on addressing domestic discontent and international demands for inclusive governance.
Question:-2
Pluralism in South Asia.
Answer:
Pluralism in South Asia
South Asia, home to diverse ethnicities, religions, and languages, embodies pluralism through its multicultural societies. Countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh constitutionally recognize minority rights, yet face challenges in maintaining harmony. Communal tensions, political majoritarianism, and economic disparities often strain pluralistic ideals. Despite this, cultural syncretism—evident in shared festivals, Sufi traditions, and linguistic diversity—demonstrates resilience. Grassroots movements and judicial interventions occasionally uphold pluralism, but institutionalized discrimination persists. The region's future hinges on balancing majority rule with minority protections, ensuring pluralism remains a unifying force rather than a divisive fault line.
Question:-3
Regional Cooperation in South Asia.
Answer:
Regional Cooperation in South Asia
South Asia, home to nearly 2 billion people, has struggled to achieve meaningful regional integration despite shared cultural and economic ties. The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), established in 1985, remains hampered by the India-Pakistan rivalry, with summits frequently suspended due to political tensions. Bilateral disputes often overshadow potential collaboration in trade, climate resilience, and infrastructure development. Recent initiatives like the Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal (BBIN) Motor Vehicles Agreement show promise for sub-regional cooperation. However, persistent security concerns, protectionist policies, and lack of connectivity continue to limit the region's collective potential, leaving South Asia as one of the least integrated regions globally.
Question:-4
Social Media in South Asia.
Answer:
Social Media in South Asia
Social media has transformed South Asia, with over 500 million active users driving political discourse, business, and social change. Platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp dominate, enabling digital activism (#MeToo, farmers' protests) while also spreading misinformation. Governments increasingly regulate content, citing national security—as seen in Pakistan's bans and India's IT rules. However, internet shutdowns in Kashmir and Myanmar raise censorship concerns. Social commerce is booming, with SMEs leveraging Instagram and TikTok (banned in some countries) for livelihoods. Despite digital divides, social media empowers marginalized voices, though hate speech and polarization remain critical challenges requiring balanced governance.
Question:-5
Global war on Terror.
Answer:
Global War on Terror
Launched after 9/11, the U.S.-led War on Terror aimed to dismantle transnational jihadist networks like Al-Qaeda and ISIS. While it degraded core terrorist groups through military interventions (Afghanistan, Iraq) and financial sanctions, it also triggered destabilizing consequences: civilian casualties, prolonged conflicts, and the rise of new extremists. Controversial tactics—drone strikes, Guantánamo Bay, mass surveillance—sparked debates over human rights violations. The 2021 Taliban takeover of Afghanistan marked a symbolic failure, exposing the limits of counterterrorism through occupation. Today, the war persists as a diffuse struggle against decentralized threats, with ideological deradicalization and cyber-terrorism as emerging challenges.
