International Relations (Mains PYQs Analysis 2013-2024)
Explore topic-wise Previous Year Questions (PYQs) analysis on International Relations for UPSC Mains GS Paper-II from 2013–2023. Click the links in the table below to jump to the relevant questions and detailed analysis, and interact with graphs to understand topic trends over the years.
| Sr. No. | Topic Name | Previous Year Questions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | India’s Bilateral Relations | Sri Lanka (2022, 2013), Israel (2018), Japan (2019, 2013), China (2017, 2014), Maldives (2013), USA (2019), Pakistan (2015) |
| 2 | Regional Organizations | SCO (2023, 2021), SAARC (2022, 2016), BIMSTEC (2022), Ashgabat Agreement (2018) |
| 3 | Global Alliances & Partnerships | NATO (2023), AUKUS (2021), QUAD (2020), I2U2 (2022), Indo-US Deals (2020) |
| 4 | International Organizations | IMO (2023), WHO (2020), UNESCO (2019, 2016), WTO (2018, 2016, 2014), ECOSOC (2017), NDB & AIIB (2014), Bretton Woods (2013) |
| 5 | Indian Diaspora | West (2023), America & Europe (2020), South-East Asia (2017) |
| 6 | Energy & Climate Security | Climate Change (2022), Energy Security (2017), US-Iran Pact (2018) |
| 7 | India’s Strategic Interests | Africa (2021, 2015), UNSC Seat (2015), Project Mausam (2015), String of Pearls (2013), ISAF Withdrawal (2013), Shahbag Protests (2013), Gujral Doctrine (2013) |
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Topic Distribution Across Years (2013–2023)
2023 Mains PYQs
1. Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and political benefits for India. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Indian diaspora, economic-political benefits.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines diaspora. Body (90 words) covers economic (remittances) and political (lobbying). Conclusion (40 words) emphasizes role.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for economic, 3 for political, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study MEA reports, US-India ties. Memorize data (USD 100 billion remittances). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague benefits.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (Kamala Harris) within 150 words.
2022 Mains PYQs
2. 'India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.' Discuss India's role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): India-Sri Lanka ties, 2022 crisis.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames friendship. Body (90 words) covers role (aid) and historical ties (1987). Conclusion (40 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for role, 3 for ties, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2022 aid, IPKF. Memorize data (USD 4 billion aid). Practice role-based answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or historical context. Ensure examples (2022 loans) within 150 words.
2019 Mains PYQs
3. ‘The time has come for India and Japan to build a strong contemporary relationship, one involving global and strategic partnership that will have a great significance for Asia and the world as a whole.’ Comment. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): India-Japan ties, strategic partnership.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames ties. Body (90 words) covers partnership (defence) and global role (QUAD). Conclusion (40 words) emphasizes significance.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for partnership, 3 for role, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study CEPA, QUAD. Memorize data (USD 20 billion investments). Practice comment-based answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2019 summits) within 150 words.
4. “What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy, which would satisfy India’s National self-esteem and ambitions” Explain with suitable examples. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): India-US friction, strategic alignment.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames ties. Body (170 words) covers friction (NSG) and examples (trade). Conclusion (50 words) suggests alignment.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for friction, 4 for examples, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NSG veto, Trump tariffs. Memorize data (USD 150 billion trade). Practice explanatory answers. Avoid vague issues.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or specifics. Ensure examples (2019 tariffs) within 250 words.
2018 Mains PYQs
5. "India's relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back." Discuss. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): India-Israel ties, depth.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames ties. Body (90 words) covers depth (defence) and diversity (agriculture). Conclusion (40 words) assesses stability.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for depth, 3 for diversity, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study IAI deals, 2017 Modi visit. Memorize data (USD 5 billion trade). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague depth.
Common Mistakes: Missing diversity or specifics. Ensure examples (2018 agreements) within 150 words.
2017 Mains PYQs
6. ‘China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): China’s strategy, India impact.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames China’s strategy. Body (90 words) covers impact (BRI) and India’s response (QUAD). Conclusion (40 words) assesses challenges.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for impact, 3 for response, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study BRI, Doklam. Memorize data (USD 60 billion surplus). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing response or specifics. Ensure examples (2017 Doklam) within 150 words.
2015 Mains PYQs
7. Terrorist activities and mutual distrust have clouded India-Pakistan relations. To what extent the use of soft power like sports and cultural exchanges could help generate goodwill between the two countries? Discuss with suitable examples. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): India-Pakistan, soft power.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames relations. Body (170 words) covers soft power (cricket) and limitations (tensions). Conclusion (50 words) assesses potential.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for soft power, 4 for limitations, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2011 WC diplomacy, Aman Ki Asha. Memorize data (2015 cancellations). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague examples.
Common Mistakes: Missing limitations or specifics. Ensure examples (2015 cricket) within 250 words.
2013 Mains PYQs
8. In respect of India — Sri Lanka relations, discuss how domestic factors influence foreign policy. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): India-Sri Lanka, domestic factors.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames ties. Body (90 words) covers factors (Tamil Nadu) and policy (aid). Conclusion (40 words) assesses influence.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for factors, 3 for policy, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Tamil Nadu politics, 2009 war. Memorize data (2013 protests). Practice role-based answers. Avoid vague factors.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2013 DMK) within 150 words.
9. Discuss the political developments in Maldives in the last two years. Should they be of any cause of concern to India? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Maldives politics, India’s concerns.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames developments. Body (90 words) covers politics (2012 coup) and concerns (China). Conclusion (40 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for developments, 3 for concerns, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2012 coup, China’s influence. Memorize data (2013 elections). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague concerns.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2013 Yameen) within 150 words.
10. Economic ties between India and Japan while growing in the recent years are still far below their potential. Elucidate the policy constraints which are inhibiting this growth. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): India-Japan ties, policy constraints.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames ties. Body (170 words) covers growth (investments) and constraints (bureaucracy). Conclusion (50 words) suggests reforms.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for growth, 4 for constraints, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study CEPA, Make in India. Memorize data (USD 10 billion FDI). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague constraints.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or reforms. Ensure examples (2013 delays) within 250 words.
11. What do you understand by ‘The String of Pearls’? How does it impact India? Briefly outline the steps taken by India to counter this. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): String of Pearls, India’s response.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) defines concept. Body (90 words) covers impact (encirclement) and response (QUAD). Conclusion (40 words) assesses steps.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for impact, 3 for response, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study BRI, Hambantota. Memorize data (2013 Gwadar). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or steps. Ensure examples (2013 QUAD) within 150 words.
2023 Mains PYQs
12. Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO; In the light of the above statement point out the role of India in mitigating the problems. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): SCO conflicts, India’s role.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames SCO issues. Body (90 words) covers conflicts (China-Pakistan) and India’s role (diplomacy). Conclusion (40 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for conflicts, 3 for role, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study SCO summits, 2023 Delhi meet. Memorize data (8 members). Practice role-based answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2023 summit) within 150 words.
2022 Mains PYQs
13. Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): BIMSTEC vs SAARC, India’s objectives.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames comparison. Body (170 words) covers similarities (regionalism), dissimilarities (Pakistan), and objectives (connectivity). Conclusion (50 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for comparison, 4 for objectives, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study BIMSTEC charter, SAARC issues. Memorize data (7 vs 8 members). Practice comparative answers. Avoid vague objectives.
Common Mistakes: Missing dissimilarities or specifics. Ensure examples (2022 summit) within 250 words.
2021 Mains PYQs
14. Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): SCO objectives, India’s importance.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames SCO. Body (90 words) covers objectives (security) and importance (energy). Conclusion (40 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for objectives, 3 for importance, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study SCO charter, 2017 membership. Memorize data (8 members). Practice critical answers. Avoid vague importance.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2021 summit) within 150 words.
2018 Mains PYQs
15. A number of outside powers have entrenched themselves in Central Asia, which is a zone of interest to India. Discuss the implications, in this context, of India's joining the Ashgabat Agreement, 2018. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Central Asia, Ashgabat Agreement.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames Central Asia. Body (170 words) covers powers (China) and implications (trade). Conclusion (50 words) assesses benefits.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for powers, 4 for implications, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Ashgabat Agreement, INSTC. Memorize data (2018 join). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague implications.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2018 routes) within 250 words.
2016 Mains PYQs
16. “Increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in India and growing interference in the internal affairs of several member-states by Pakistan are not conducive for the future of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation).” Explain with suitable examples. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): SAARC issues, Pakistan’s role.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames SAARC. Body (170 words) covers issues (terrorism) and examples (2016 boycott). Conclusion (50 words) assesses future.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for issues, 4 for examples, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2016 summit boycott, Uri attack. Memorize data (8 members). Practice explanatory answers. Avoid vague examples.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2016 Uri) within 250 words.
2023 Mains PYQs
17. The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well for India. What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): NATO expansion, India’s benefits.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames NATO. Body (170 words) covers benefits (China counter) and examples (QUAD). Conclusion (50 words) states opinion.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for benefits, 4 for examples, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NATO 2022 expansion, QUAD. Memorize data (31 members). Practice opinion-based answers. Avoid vague benefits.
Common Mistakes: Missing examples or specifics. Ensure examples (2023 summits) within 250 words.
2022 Mains PYQs
18. How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India's position in global politics? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): I2U2, India’s global position.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames I2U2. Body (90 words) covers transformation (tech) and politics (West Asia). Conclusion (40 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for transformation, 3 for politics, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2022 I2U2 summit, Abraham Accords. Memorize data (4 members). Practice role-based answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2022 projects) within 150 words.
2021 Mains PYQs
19. “The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union." Explain. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): US-China rivalry, Soviet comparison.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames rivalry. Body (90 words) covers challenges (economy) and comparison (ideology). Conclusion (40 words) explains threat.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for challenges, 3 for comparison, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study BRI, Cold War. Memorize data (USD 15 trillion GDP). Practice explanatory answers. Avoid vague comparisons.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2021 tensions) within 150 words.
20. The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China's ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): AUKUS, Indo-Pacific dynamics.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames AUKUS. Body (170 words) covers aim (China), strength (tech), and impact (QUAD). Conclusion (50 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for aim/strength, 4 for impact, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study AUKUS 2021, QUAD. Memorize data (3 members). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2021 submarine deal) within 250 words.
2020 Mains PYQs
21. ‘Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD)’ is the transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times – Discuss. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): QUAD transformation, trade focus.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames QUAD. Body (90 words) covers transformation (supply chains) and military roots (exercises). Conclusion (40 words) assesses shift.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for transformation, 3 for roots, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2020 QUAD meet, Malabar. Memorize data (4 members). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague shifts.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2020 supply chains) within 150 words.
22. What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Indo-US vs Indo-Russian deals, Indo-Pacific.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames deals. Body (170 words) covers significance (tech) and stability (QUAD). Conclusion (50 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for significance, 4 for stability, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study LEMOA, S-400. Memorize data (USD 20 billion US deals). Practice comparative answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2020 LEMOA) within 250 words.
2023 Mains PYQs
23. ‘Sea is an important component of the Cosmos’. Discuss in the light of the above statement the role of the IMO (International Maritime Organisation) in protecting environment and enhancing maritime safety and security. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): IMO role, maritime safety.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames IMO. Body (170 words) covers environment (MARPOL) and safety (SOLAS). Conclusion (50 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for environment, 4 for safety, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study MARPOL, SOLAS. Memorize data (174 members). Practice role-based answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2023 regulations) within 250 words.
2020 Mains PYQs
24. Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the COVID-19 pandemic. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): WHO role, COVID-19.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames WHO. Body (90 words) covers role (guidelines) and criticism (delays). Conclusion (40 words) assesses effectiveness.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for role, 3 for criticism, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study WHO 2020 response, US exit. Memorize data (194 members). Practice critical answers. Avoid vague criticism.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2020 delays) within 150 words.
2019 Mains PYQs
25. ‘Too little cash, too much politics, leaves UNESCO fighting for life.’ Discuss the statement in the light of US’ withdrawal and its accusation of the cultural body as being ‘anti-Israel bias’. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): UNESCO challenges, US withdrawal.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames UNESCO. Body (90 words) covers funding (US exit) and bias (Israel). Conclusion (40 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for funding, 3 for bias, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2017 US exit, Palestine issue. Memorize data (22% budget cut). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague impacts.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2019 reforms) within 150 words.
2018 Mains PYQs
26. What are the key areas of reform if the WTO has to survive in the present context of Trade War', especially keeping in mind the interest of India? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): WTO reforms, India’s interests.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames WTO. Body (170 words) covers reforms (dispute) and India (food security). Conclusion (50 words) assesses survival.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for reforms, 4 for India, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study US-China trade war, Doha. Memorize data (164 members). Practice reform-based answers. Avoid vague reforms.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2018 disputes) within 250 words.
2017 Mains PYQs
27. What are the main functions of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)? Explain different functional commissions attached to it. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): ECOSOC functions, commissions.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames ECOSOC. Body (90 words) covers functions (SDGs) and commissions (UN Women). Conclusion (40 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for functions, 3 for commissions, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study ECOSOC charter, 9 commissions. Memorize data (54 members). Practice explanatory answers. Avoid vague functions.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2017 SDGs) within 150 words.
2016 Mains PYQs
28. “The broader aims and objectives of WTO are to manage and promote international trade in the era of globalization. But the Doha round of negotiations seem doomed due to differences between the developed and the developing countries.” Discuss in the Indian perspective. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): WTO objectives, Doha issues.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames WTO. Body (170 words) covers objectives (trade) and issues (subsidies). Conclusion (50 words) assesses India’s stance.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for objectives, 4 for issues, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Doha 2001, India’s food security. Memorize data (164 members). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague issues.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2016 Nairobi) within 250 words.
29. What are the aims and objectives of the McBride Commission of the UNESCO? What is India’s position on these? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): McBride Commission, India’s position.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames commission. Body (90 words) covers aims (NWICO) and India’s stance (support). Conclusion (40 words) assesses relevance.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for aims, 3 for stance, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 1980 report, NWICO. Memorize data (16 members). Practice explanatory answers. Avoid vague aims.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2016 debates) within 150 words.
2014 Mains PYQs
30. India has recently signed to become founding member of New Development Bank (NDB) and also the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). How will the role of the two Banks be different? Discuss the significance of these two Banks for India. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): NDB vs AIIB, India’s benefits.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames banks. Body (170 words) covers roles (global vs Asia) and significance (infrastructure). Conclusion (50 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for roles, 4 for significance, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study NDB 2014, AIIB 2015. Memorize data (USD 100 billion each). Practice comparative answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2014 BRICS) within 250 words.
31. WTO is an important international institution where decisions taken affect countries in profound manner. What is the mandate of WTO and how binding are their decisions? Critically analyse India’s stand on the latest round of talks on Food security. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): WTO mandate, India’s food security.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames WTO. Body (170 words) covers mandate (trade), decisions (binding), and India (subsidies). Conclusion (50 words) assesses stance.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for mandate, 4 for India, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study WTO 1995, Bali 2013. Memorize data (164 members). Practice critical answers. Avoid vague stances.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2014 veto) within 250 words.
2013 Mains PYQs
32. The World Bank and the IMF, collectively known as the Bretton Woods Institutions, are the two inter-governmental pillars supporting the structure of the world’s economic and financial order. Superficially, the World Bank and the IMF exhibit many common characteristics, yet their role, functions and mandate are distinctly different. Elucidate. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): World Bank vs IMF, roles.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames institutions. Body (170 words) covers roles (development vs stability) and differences (funding). Conclusion (50 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for roles, 4 for differences, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 1944 Bretton Woods, SDRs. Memorize data (189 members). Practice comparative answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2013 loans) within 250 words.
2023 Mains PYQs
33. Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and political benefits for India. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Diaspora, economic-political benefits.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames diaspora. Body (90 words) covers economic (remittances) and political (lobbying). Conclusion (40 words) emphasizes role.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for economic, 3 for political, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study MEA reports, US-India ties. Memorize data (USD 100 billion remittances). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague benefits.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2023 leaders) within 150 words.
2020 Mains PYQs
34. ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Diaspora role, politics-economy.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames diaspora. Body (90 words) covers role (voting) and examples (US). Conclusion (40 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for role, 3 for examples, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2020 US elections, UK diaspora. Memorize data (4 million US). Practice comment-based answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2020 voting) within 150 words.
2017 Mains PYQs
35. Indian Diaspora has an important role to play in South-East Asian countries’ economy and society. Appraise the role of Indian Diaspora in South-East Asia in this context. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Diaspora role, South-East Asia.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames diaspora. Body (170 words) covers economy (trade) and society (culture). Conclusion (50 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for economy, 4 for society, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study PIO in Singapore, Malaysia. Memorize data (5 million SEA). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague roles.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2017 trade) within 250 words.
2022 Mains PYQs
36. 'Clean energy is the order of the day.' Describe briefly India's changing policy towards climate change in various international fora in the context of geopolitics. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Clean energy, India’s climate policy.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames policy. Body (90 words) covers change (Paris) and geopolitics (China). Conclusion (40 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for change, 3 for geopolitics, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study Paris 2015, COP26. Memorize data (2070 net-zero). Practice descriptive answers. Avoid vague policies.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2022 COP) within 150 words.
2018 Mains PYQs
37. In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the national interest of India? How should India respond to this situation? [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): US-Iran pact, India’s interests.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames controversy. Body (170 words) covers impact (oil) and response (diplomacy). Conclusion (50 words) assesses strategy.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for impact, 4 for response, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2018 US exit, Chabahar. Memorize data (20% oil imports). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague responses.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2018 waivers) within 250 words.
2017 Mains PYQs
38. The question of India’s Energy Security constitutes the most important part of India’s economic progress. Analyze India’s energy policy cooperation with West Asian Countries. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Energy security, West Asia.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames security. Body (170 words) covers policy (OPEC) and cooperation (Saudi). Conclusion (50 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for policy, 4 for cooperation, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study ONGC Videsh, OPEC. Memorize data (60% oil imports). Practice analytical answers. Avoid vague policies.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2017 deals) within 250 words.
2021 Mains PYQs
39. "If the last few decades were of Asia's growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa's.” In the light of this statement, examine India's influence in Africa in recent years. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Africa’s growth, India’s influence.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames Africa. Body (170 words) covers influence (IAFS) and challenges (China). Conclusion (50 words) assesses role.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for influence, 4 for challenges, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study IAFS III, China’s BRI. Memorize data (USD 10 billion aid). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague influences.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2021 summit) within 250 words.
2015 Mains PYQs
40. Increasing interest of India in Africa has its pros and cons. Critically examine. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): India-Africa ties, pros-cons.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames ties. Body (170 words) covers pros (trade) and cons (competition). Conclusion (50 words) assesses balance.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for pros, 4 for cons, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study IAFS 2015, China’s role. Memorize data (USD 60 billion trade). Practice critical answers. Avoid one-sided arguments.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2015 summit) within 250 words.
41. Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in UN Security Council. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): UNSC seat, India’s impediments.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames pursuit. Body (90 words) covers impediments (China veto) and efforts (G4). Conclusion (40 words) assesses challenges.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for impediments, 3 for efforts, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study G4, China’s stance. Memorize data (5 permanent members). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague impediments.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2015 G4) within 150 words.
42. Project 'Mausam' is considered a unique foreign policy initiative of the Indian Government to improve relationship with its neighbours. Does the project have a strategic dimension? Discuss. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Project Mausam, strategic dimension.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames Mausam. Body (170 words) covers cultural ties (IOR) and strategy (China). Conclusion (50 words) assesses dimension.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for ties, 4 for strategy, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2014 Mausam, IOR. Memorize data (39 countries). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague strategies.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2015 outreach) within 250 words.
2013 Mains PYQs
43. The proposed withdrawal of International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) from Afghanistan in 2014 is fraught with major security implications for the countries of the region. Examine in light of the fact that India is faced with a plethora of challenges and needs to safeguard its own strategic interests. [250 Words, 15 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): ISAF withdrawal, India’s challenges.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (30 words) frames withdrawal. Body (170 words) covers implications (terrorism) and India (border). Conclusion (50 words) assesses strategy.
Marks Allocation: 6 marks for implications, 4 for India, 5 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2014 withdrawal, TAPI. Memorize data (60,000 troops). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague implications.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2013 attacks) within 250 words.
44. The protests in Shahbag Square in Dhaka in Bangladesh reveal a fundamental split in society between the nationalists and Islamic forces. What is its significance for India? [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Shahbag protests, India’s significance.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames protests. Body (90 words) covers split (secularism) and significance (border). Conclusion (40 words) assesses impact.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for split, 3 for significance, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 2013 protests, border issues. Memorize data (1971 legacy). Practice explanatory answers. Avoid vague significance.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2013 migration) within 150 words.
45. What is meant by Gujral doctrine? Does it have any relevance today? Discuss. [150 Words, 10 Marks]
Analysis for Aspirants:
Key Themes (30% of marks): Gujral Doctrine, relevance.
Answer Structure (20% of marks): Introduction (20 words) frames doctrine. Body (90 words) covers principles (non-reciprocity) and relevance (SAARC). Conclusion (40 words) assesses utility.
Marks Allocation: 4 marks for principles, 3 for relevance, 3 for conclusion.
Preparation Tips: Study 1996 doctrine, SAARC. Memorize data (5 principles). Practice evaluative answers. Avoid vague relevance.
Common Mistakes: Missing specifics or examples. Ensure examples (2013 context) within 150 words.
Trend Analysis for UPSC International Relations Mains (2013–2023)
The UPSC International Relations Mains questions from 2013–2023 reveal distinct patterns in focus areas, reflecting global geopolitical shifts and India’s evolving foreign policy priorities. Below is a detailed breakdown of key trends, supported by data and insights for aspirants:
- Shift Toward Multilateralism (2018–2023): There’s a noticeable increase in questions on global alliances and regional organizations, with 12 questions (e.g., QUAD, AUKUS, SCO) compared to 5 in 2013–2017. This reflects the growing importance of multilateral platforms amid US-China rivalry and India’s Act East Policy. Aspirants should focus on India’s role in QUAD, SCO, and BIMSTEC, emphasizing partnerships like I2U2 (2022).
- Decline in Bilateral Focus (2018–2023): Bilateral relations questions dropped from 7 in 2013–2017 to 4 in 2018–2023. Earlier years emphasized neighbors (e.g., Sri Lanka, Maldives in 2013), while recent questions focus on strategic partners like the USA and Japan (2019). Study India’s ties with the USA (e.g., trade friction, 2019) and China’s regional influence (e.g., 2017).
- Emerging Themes – Climate and Diaspora: Energy and climate security gained traction with 3 questions (2017, 2018, 2022), reflecting global climate priorities (e.g., Paris Agreement). Indian diaspora questions rose to 3 (2017, 2020, 2023), highlighting its soft power (e.g., West, 2023). Aspirants should prepare data like remittances (USD 100 billion, 2023) and climate commitments (2070 net-zero).
- Strategic Interests – A Consistent Theme: India’s strategic interests appeared consistently (8 questions), peaking in 2013 (4 questions, e.g., String of Pearls) and 2015 (3 questions, e.g., UNSC seat). Focus on Africa (2021) and countering China (e.g., Project Mausam, 2015) remains relevant. Memorize initiatives like IAFS and G4 efforts.
- International Organizations – Steady Relevance: Questions on international organizations (9 questions) remained steady, with a focus on WTO (2014, 2016, 2018) and WHO (2020). Recent years included niche bodies like IMO (2023). Study reforms (e.g., WTO dispute mechanisms) and India’s stance (e.g., food security, 2014).
The graph below illustrates the trend in question frequency across key themes, helping aspirants prioritize preparation for high-weightage topics.
Key Insights for Aspirants: Prioritize multilateralism and emerging themes like climate security, as they align with UPSC’s focus on current affairs. Bilateral relations remain relevant but require a strategic lens (e.g., countering China). Use data-driven answers (e.g., trade figures, summit outcomes) to score higher. Practice structuring answers with historical context (e.g., 2013 String of Pearls) and recent developments (e.g., 2023 SCO conflicts).
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