IR 1: India's Neighbours — China, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh

Explore the historical evolution and guiding principles of India's foreign policy with a specific focus on its immediate neighbours. Understand the strategic importance of the South Asian region and India's 'Neighbourhood First' approach in shaping regional stability and cooperation.

• Introduction to India's Neighbourhood First Policy: Historical Context and Genesis (12 questions)
• Core Principles, Objectives, and Strategic Vision of the Neighbourhood First Policy (11 questions)
• Key Pillars of Engagement: Connectivity, Economic Cooperation, Security, and Cultural Diplomacy (16 questions)
• Challenges, Regional Dynamics, and Future Trajectories of Neighbourhood First Policy (13 questions)

Delve into the multifaceted relationship between India and Pakistan. This module covers the historical context of partition, major conflicts, the Kashmir dispute, cross-border terrorism, and the diplomatic challenges and potential pathways for engagement.

• The Genesis of Rivalry: Partition and Early Conflicts (11 questions)
• Decades of Conflict: From 1965 to Kargil (10 questions)
• The Nuclear Dimension: Deterrence and Escalation Risks (13 questions)
• Contemporary Dynamics: Terrorism, Water, and Regional Influence (14 questions)

Examine the dynamic and often tense relationship between India and China. Topics include the historical background, the unresolved border dispute (LAC), growing economic interdependence, regional geopolitical competition, and the implications of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for India.

• Historical Trajectories and the Genesis of the India-China Relationship (15 questions)
• Geopolitical Rivalry and Security Dynamics (19 questions)
• Economic Interdependence and Multilateral Engagement (13 questions)
• Navigating the Future: Balancing Competition, Cooperation, and Strategic Autonomy (15 questions)

Analyze India's relations with two key neighbours in the east. For Bangladesh, topics include shared river water management, border issues, economic partnerships, and connectivity projects. For Sri Lanka, this module covers historical ties, ethnic issues, strategic maritime cooperation, and economic linkages.

• Historical Evolution of India-Bangladesh Relations (28 questions)
• Contemporary Dynamics of India-Bangladesh Cooperation and Challenges (11 questions)
• India-Sri Lanka Relations: Ancient Ties and Strategic Significance (15 questions)
• Current Issues and Future Trajectories in India-Sri Lanka Relations (11 questions)

Explore the unique historical, cultural, and economic ties between India and Nepal. This module delves into border dynamics, hydropower cooperation, trade relations, and the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Himalayan region.

• Geographical and Historical Foundations of India-Nepal Relations (15 questions)
• Nepal's Internal Political Dynamics and Security Landscape (14 questions)
• Bilateral Engagements and Contentions in India-Nepal Relations (9 questions)
• Geopolitical Competition and Future Trajectories (14 questions)

Synthesize the various bilateral relationships by examining common challenges and opportunities across India's neighbourhood. This module also explores the role of regional cooperation mechanisms like SAARC and BIMSTEC, and India's broader strategic vision for a stable and prosperous South Asia in the coming decades.

• Regional Interdependencies and Shared Challenges in South Asia (12 questions)
• India's Strategic Doctrines and Regional Engagement Frameworks (16 questions)
• Evolving Power Dynamics and Extra-Regional Influences (14 questions)
• India's Future Outlook: Opportunities, Challenges, and Vision for Regional Leadership (11 questions)