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Question 1:

Critically analyze the factors influencing the selection of India’s Republic Day Chief Guest. How does this choice reflect India’s strategic priorities and foreign policy objectives? Illustrate your answer with relevant examples from the past decade.(250 words)

Model Answer:

• The selection of India’s Republic Day Chief Guest goes beyond mere formality. It is a deliberate strategic move reflecting the nation’s current priorities and foreign policy objectives. Several factors influence this choice, including:

• • Political considerations: Strengthening existing alliances, forging new partnerships, and addressing geopolitical concerns play a pivotal role. For instance, inviting the President of France in 2016 signalled cooperation on climate change and terrorism while highlighting historical ties.
  • Economic interests: Boosting trade, investment, and technological collaboration are crucial factors. Inviting leaders from nations like Japan (2014,2023) or South Africa (2019) aimed to solidify economic partnerships.

• • Strategic Partnership: In 2015, President Barack Obama of the United States was invited as the chief guest, reflecting India’s efforts to strengthen its strategic partnership with the US.
  • Historical connections: Inviting nations with shared historical experiences or belonging to the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) has been a trend. During 1950s–1970s, a number of Non-Aligned Movement and Eastern Bloc countries were hosted by India
  • In 2017, the UAE’s Crown Prince’s presence marked the centenary of diplomatic relations and ongoing economic ties.
  • By analyzing past Chief Guest selections, we can discern India’s strategic priorities. For instance, the frequent invitations to leaders from Southeast Asia (Singapore and Vietnam in 2018) reflect India’s “Look East” policy and growing engagement in the region.

Therefore, the choice of Chief Guest is not merely symbolic. It serves as a diplomatic tool, showcasing India’s international standing, forging strategic partnerships, and advancing its foreign policy objectives.

Question 2:

Discuss the potential challenges and limitations in selecting India’s Republic Day Chief Guest. How can these limitations be overcome to ensure the chosen guest effectively symbolizes India’s aspirations and interests?(250 words)

Model Answer:

• While selecting the Republic Day Chief Guest offers strategic benefits, there are potential challenges and limitations to consider:

• • Domestic political considerations: Certain choices might face criticism from opposition parties or sections of the public based on ideological differences or past conflicts with the invited nation.

• • International sensitivities: Balancing relationships with multiple countries can be intricate. Inviting a leader from a nation with strained relations with other key partners might create diplomatic complications.

• • Guest availability and scheduling conflicts: Coordinating schedules with busy world leaders can be challenging, limiting options.

• • Limited impact on long-term strategic goals: While the event fosters goodwill and strengthens ties, its long-term impact on strategic objectives might be limited.

To overcome these limitations, India can employ several strategies:

• • Transparency and inclusivity: Consulting with Parliament and key stakeholders can create a sense of ownership and address potential concerns.

• • Prioritizing strategic interests: The choice should primarily be based on long-term strategic goals and national interests, not short-term political gains.

• • Maintaining flexibility and open diplomacy: Being open to inviting leaders from diverse backgrounds and regions can broaden outreach and foster new partnerships.

• • Focusing on the substance of the relationship: Beyond the symbolic gesture, India should actively engage with the chosen guest country to ensure deeper collaboration and tangible outcomes.

• • By adopting these strategies, India can ensure that the selection of the Republic Day Chief Guest effectively symbolizes its aspirations and interests, beyond mere pomp and ceremony.

Remember: These are just sample answers. It’s important to further research and refine your responses based on your own understanding and perspective.

Relevance to the Prelims and Mains syllabus under the following topics:

UPSC Mains:

• • Essay Paper: Analyzing the factors influencing the chief guest selection and its strategic implications can be a unique and insightful topic for the Mains Essay Paper. You can connect it to broader themes like India’s global role, diplomacy, and foreign policy challenges.
  • General Studies Paper II (International Relations): This paper allows you to delve deeper into the specific relationship with the chosen guest country. Discussing historical ties, ongoing collaborations, and future prospects can showcase your understanding of bilateral relations.
  • General Studies Paper IV (Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude): The selection process and its challenges can offer material for discussing ethical decision-making in diplomacy and balancing national interests with global considerations.

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