India’s External Relations Class 12 Important Extra Questions Political Science Chapter 4

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Class 12 Political Science Chapter 4 Important Extra Questions India’s External Relations

India’s External Relations Important Extra Questions Very Short Answer Type

Question 1.
Explain the two most important basic principles of India’s foreign policy. (Sample Paper, C.B.S.E. 1991, 1992, 2009)
Answer:

The most important basic principle of India’s foreign policy is Non-alignment.
The basic principle of India’s foreign policy is safeguarding national interests.

Question 2.
Explain the importance of ‘Peaceful Co-existence’ in the context of India’s foreign policy.
Answer:
In the present day world, the principle of Peaceful Co-existence is quite popular. India’s foreign policy is based on this principle. All countries in the world have a right to adopt their internal and external policies independently and all have a right of existence in accordance with their ideals. World peace can be maintained only by following the principle of Peaceful Co-existence. This principle is against the interference of one nation in the affairs of other nation.

Question 3.
Mention two conditions of the Shimla Agreement.
Answer:
Two important conditions of the Shimla Agreement were as given below:

Both the countries had resolved to solve their conflicts and confrontations through bilateral peaceful talks.
Both countries would not use force against each other’s territorial integrity.

Question 4.
Which two differences between India and China led to an army conflict
Answer:
The following two differences between India and China led to an army conflict in 1962:

A major dispute between India and China is the border dispute involving the determination of the 4,200 km long border at the foot of the Himalayas.
Chinese aggression on India border on October 20, 1962, and the continuous violations of our borders.

Question 5.
Highlight any two aspects of the Indian Foreign Policy which were greatly influenced by Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru. (C.B.S.E. 2018)
Answer:

Non-alignment. The main characteristic of India’s foreign policy is non-alignment. Pt. Nehru said-as as far as possible, we do not want to associate with power groups which caused two World Wars which can take place in future also.
Unification of Afro-Asian Countries. Pt. Nehru tries to unite Asian and African countries to strengthen economic and political relations.

Question 6.
Highlight the contribution made by Jawaharlal Nehru to the Foreign Policy of India. (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2014)
Answer:

The main contribution of Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru to the Foreign Policy of India is the policy of Non-Alignment.
Another contribution is the Principles of Panchsheel.

Question 7.
When and between whom was the Shimla Agreement signed? (C.B.S.E. 2012 Outside Delhi)
Answer:
Shimla Agreement was signed between Indian Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi and Pakistani Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in July 1972.

Question 8.
Why did India not sign the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty? (CTBT)? (C.B.S.E. 2012 Outside Delhi)
Answer:

India did not sign the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty because according to India, this treaty was discriminatory.
India’s two neighbouring countries had nuclear weapons, therefore it was necessary for India to have a minimum deterrent.

Question 10.
How did the Sino-Indian conflict affect the opposition also? (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2015)
Or
How did the Sino-Indian conflict of 1962 affect the Communist Party of India? (C.B.S.E.2019)
Answer:
Sino-Indian conflict also affected the opposition in India. The growing rift between China and the Soviet Union created irreconcilable differences within the Communist Party of India (CPI). The pro-USSR faction remained within the CPI and moved towards closer ties with the Congress. The other faction was for some time closer to China and was against any ties with the Congress. In 1964, the leftist members of the Communist Party left the party and organised a separate party known as Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI (M). During the Sino- India war many leaders of CPI (M) were arrested for being pro-China.

India’s External Relations Important Extra Questions Very Short Answer Type (2 Marks)

Question 1.
In the formulation of foreign policy, what was Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru’s first priority?
Answer:
National interest was the first priority of Pt. Nehru.

Question 2.
What do you mean by Panchsheel? (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2009)
Answer:
The word ‘Panchsheel’ stands for five principles of conduct and behavior. India and China evolved five principles to maintain friendly ties between the two countries.

Question 3.
Give the full form of the NPT and CTBT. (C.B.S.E. 2009)
Answer:
NPT-Non Proliferation Treaty. CTBT-Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty.

Question 4.
Enumerate any two principles of; Nehru’s foreign policy. (C.B.S.E. 2013)
Answer:

Non-alignment is the basic principle of Nehru’s foreign policy.
Pt. Nehru has always raised his voice against caste and colour discrimination.

Question 5.
When was the first nuclear experiment undertaken by India? (C.B.S.E. 2009)
Answer:
India first undertook a nuclear experiment in 1974.

Question 6.
Mention any two principles of India’s foreign policy. (C.B.S.E. 2009)
Answer:

The most important basic principles of India’s foreign policy is non-alignment.
The basic principle of India’s foreign policy is safeguarding national interests.

Question 7.
Which two objectives Jawaharlal: Nehru wised; to achieve through the strategy of non-alignment? (ImP) (C.B.S.E. 2010:
Answer:

To preserve the hard-earned sovereignty.
To protect territorial integrity.

Question 8.
During the Nehru era, why did: some political parties and groups in our country believe that India should be more friendly with the bloc led by the U.S.? (C.B.S.E. 2010 )
Answer:
Some political parties and group in our country believe that India should be more friendly with the bloc led by the U.S. because it supports the value of democracy.

Question 9.
How the aim of India to respect the sovereign did find an eco in the Directive Principles of the state policy? (C.B.S.E. Sample Question P. 2017)
Answer:
India as a nation born in the backdrop of the world war and shadow of the cold war decided to respect the sovereignty of other nations and believe in world peace. The aim finds an eco in the Directive Principles of the State Policy.

Choose the correct answer:

Question 10.
“The foreign policy of a country is the outcome of her economic policy” these remarks were made by:
(a) Indira Gandhi
(b) Jawaharlal Nehru
(c) Morarji Desai
(d) Charan Singh.
Answer:
(b) Jawaharlal Nehru.

Question 11.
Bandung Conference was held in the year:
(a) 1954
(b) 1955
(c) 1956
(d) 1957
Answer:
(b) 1955.

Question 12.
Bangladesh emerged as an independent nation in:
(a) January 1972
(b) December 1971
(c) March 1971
(d) November 1971.
Answer:
(b) December 1971.

Question 13.
China made a sudden attack on India in:
(a) August 1962
(b) September 1962
(c) October 1962
(d) September 1965.
Answer:
(c) October 1962.

Question 14.
The Architect of Non-alignment is:
(a) Pt. Nehru
(b) Indira Gandhi
(c) Y. B. Chavan
(d) Atal Behari Vajpayee.
Answer:
(a) Pt. Nehru.

India’s External Relations Important Extra Questions Short Answer Type

Question 1.
List any four ‘Directive Principles of State Policy’ given in the Constitution of India for the promotion y y of International Peace and security. (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2010 Outside Delhi, 2013)
Answer:
Article 51 of Chapter IV of the Indian Constitution lays down certain principles which are the basis of Indian Foreign Policy. Following are the constitutional bases of the Indian foreign policy:

To promote international peace and security.
To establish just and respectable relations with various nations.
To foster respect for international law and treaty obligations in the dealings of organised people with one another.
To encourage the settlement of international disputes by arbitration.

Question 2.
What do you understand by Panchsheel? What are its main principles?
Answer:
Pt. Nehru formulated five principles of peaceful co-existence among the nations of the world. They were accepted first by the Chinese Prime Minister Chou-En-Lie. These principles are known as Panchsheel. They are:

To respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other.
Non-aggression on each other.
Non-interference in each other’s internal affairs.
Peaceful settlement of disputes.
To promote world peace.

Question 3.
Assess any four principles of India’s foreign policy. (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2008)
Answer:
1. Non-alignment: Non-alignment is the basic principle of India’s foreign policy. In fact, India
was the first country which initiated the policy of Non¬alignment which was adopted by most of the countries of Asia and Africa which attained independence in the post World War-II period.

2. Opposition to the Policy of Caste, Colour and Discrimination, etc. Another basic principle of India’s foreign policy is that it has always raised voice against the policy of caste, colour and discrimination.

3. Opposition to Imperialism: India has always opposed imperialism and colonialism. India regards imperialism to be injurious to world peace as it leads to war.

4. Faith in United Nations: India is a founding member of the United Nations and has full faith in the aims and principles of the United Nations. India believes that the United Nations is the only hope of world peace in the present age, so it should be strengthened.

Question 4.
Why did India distance herself from the two superpower camps? (C.B.S.E. 2018)
Answer:
1. First, India had to struggle against colonialism and imperialism. After getting freedom from imperialistic exploitations, faced the problem of economic reconstruction which could be accomplished in a peaceful atmosphere, So, India preferred not to join any group to avoid tension.

2. Secondly, India adopted the policy of non-alignment for peaceful co-existence for securing world peace and stability.

3. The policy of non-alignment was followed to elevate India’s prestige. If India gives it decision pertaining to international problems in a neutral way, both the power Blocs would respect its ideology, and the tension at the international level will lessen.

4. In order to preserve the hard-earned sovereignty, protect the territorial integrity and promote rapid economic development.

Question 5.
Suppose you are looking after the foreign policy of India. Which four values will you like to integrate into the foreign policy? (C.B.S.E. 2014)
Answer:

Policy of Non-Alignment
Faith in the principles of U.N.O.
Faith in peaceful co-existence.
Support and promotion of Human Rights in the world.

Question 6.
Explain briefly India’s Nuclear Policy. (C.B.S.E. 2014) (Textual Question)
Or
Analyse the Nuclear Policy of India. (C.B.S.E. 2019)
Or
Describe the Nuclear Policy of India, (C.B.S.E. 2013)
Answer:
India is against the policy of the nuclear experiment. In principle, India has stood for general and complete disarmament within the framework of the United Nations. Addressing the General Assembly, Mr Rajiv Gandhi, Prime Minister, asked nuclear powers to eliminate all nuclear weapons by the year 2010. India is the sixth country in the world enjoying atomic power by having undertaken successful atomic experiments in 1974. There are four Atomic Power Centres working in India. But this power is being utilised for peaceful and creative purpose and not for making atomic-bombs.

After India conducted nuclear tests in May 1998 the United States and other countries urged India to sign CTBT (Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty) unconditionally. But India reiterated its stand that since the treaty is discriminatory, it is not acceptable to the nation without any change.

Question 7.
Discuss the main irritants between India and China.
Or
Analyse any two courses of conflict between India and China. (C.B.S.E. 2019)
Answer:
The following are the main irritants between China and India:

India and China have a controversy over the McMohan Line, the borderline between India and China.
China invaded India on 20 October 1962 and later unilaterally declared a ceasefire on 21 November 1962. But China was able to capture thousands of miles of Indian territory which is still under Chinese possession.
China entered into military alliances with Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar. These agreements pose a great threat to the security of India.
China always supported Pakistan against India.

Question 8.
Highlight the development of India’s Nuclear Programme. (C.B.S.E. 2011, Delhi)
Answer:

In the late 1940s, under the guidance of Homi J. Bhabha, the Nuclear programme was initiated.
The first nuclear explosion was undertaken by India in May 1974.
The second nuclear explosion was undertaken by India in 1998.
India signed the Civil Nuclear Treaty with the U.S.A. in 2005.

Question 9.
Explain any two factors responsible for Pakistan’s failure in building a stable democracy. (C.B.S.E. 2012 Outside Delhi)
Answer:

The social dominance of the military, clergy and landing aristocracy is responsible for overthrowing the democratic government. Wars with India have made military rulers and pro¬military groups very powerful. In spite of the fact that democracy has not succeeded in Pakistan, there have been strong pro-democratic sentiments in the country. Moreover, America and other Western countries have encouraged military rulers for their own interests.
Another factor responsible for Pakistan’s failure in building a stable democracy is a fundamentalist element working in Pakistan.

Question 10.
Before 1971, which two reasons were the source of resentment among j the people of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) against West Pakistan. (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2013)
Or
Explain any two reasons for the j popular struggle in East Pakistan (Now Bangladesh) against West Pakistan during 1971. (C.B.S.E. 2014)
Answer:
Before 1971. following two reasons were a source of resentment among the people of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) against West Pakistan.

East Bengal was not given fair treatment by the rulers of Pakistan and it was made virtually a colony.
The people of East Pakistan resented the domination of Western Pakistan and the imposition of Urdu language.
In an election held early in 1971 in Pakistan, Sheikh Mujibur’s Awami League got a majority in Pakistan Parliament. But he was not called to form the government and instead was arrested.

Question 11.
Describe any two major objectives of Nehru’s foreign policy.
Answer:
Following are the two major objectives of Nehru’s Foreign Policy:

To preserve the sovereignty of the country and protect territorial integrity.
To promote rapid economic development. The foreign policy of India was set by Jawaharlal Nehru. He played a significant role in the implementation of these policies from 1946 to 1964. He tried to achieve the aforementioned objectives through his policy of Non-alignment. In other words, he did not side with either power blocs like the U.S. and the former U.S.S.R.He followed the policy of peaceful coexistence. He maintained friendly relations with African countries which were newly independent. India also tried to maintain friendly and peaceful relations with its neighbours like Pakistan and China.

Question 12.
Explain the circumstances that forced the Tibetans to leave China. Highlight India’s role in helping the *• Tibetan refugees. (C.B.S.E. 2015)
Answer:
India’s policy of contentment crossed its limit when India gave its extra-territorial rights enjoyed in Tibet, to China by signing a trade-agreement on 29th April 1954. Both the countries at the time of agreement expressed their faith in the principles of Panchsheel. There was an armed uprising in Tibet protest against China’s infiltration in 1958. Chinese forces suppressed the movement. In 1959, the Dalai Lama crossed over to Indian border and sought asylum under the Indian Government. A large number of Tibetans had also sought refuge in India. Hence, Tibet became an issue of tension between India and China.

India’s External Relations Important Extra Questions Long Answer Type

Question 1.
Describe any four basic postulates of India’s foreign policy. (C.B.S.E. Sample Paper)
Or
Mention the main principles of India’s foreign policy. (C.B.S.E. 2005)
Answer:
The basic elements of India’s foreign policy today are the same what they were previously. The only difference is that idealism was emphasised more in the age of Nehru whereas realism got the upper hand in the Shastri-era. But a fine combination of idealism and realism in India’s foreign policy has been witnessed under the leadership of Mrs. Gandhi.
Following are the features of India’s foreign policy:
1. Non-alignment: The main characteristic of India’s foreign policy is non-alignment. India itself is a non-aligned country and so its foreign policy is also based on non-alignment.

2. Opposition to Imperialists and Colonialists: Since India itself remained a victim of British Imperialism, it has always opposed imperialism and colonialism. India regards imperialism to be injurious to world peace as it leads to war. So Indian leaders by visiting other countries and delivering speeches in the U.N. have tried to liberate slave countries from the clutches of imperialistic countries. India has always supported the national movements in the slave countries. Whenever imperialism tried to dominate, India strongly opposed it. When Holland, after the Second World War, tried to overpower Indonesia, India protested against it.

When England and France attacked Egypt to capture the Suez Canal in 1956, India sided with Egypt. In the same way, India strived to liberate countries like Malaya, Algeria, Congo and Morocco. India strongly protested against the United States of America when it tried to overpower Cuba.

3. Opposition to the Policy of Caste, Colour Discrimination, etc. India has always favoured the abolition of the caste system and it has tried to remove caste-ridden policies from the world also. India has consistently raised the question of the treatment of the people of Indian origin in the Union of South Africa and severely condemned the policy of racial segregation followed by the Government of South Africa. India also took up the cause of Negroes in the United States and the non-white population in Rhodesia.

4. Friendly Relations with other States: India is always ready to have friendly relations with other States of the world. India not only improved its friendly ties with Asian countries but with countries of the world also.

5. Unification of Afro-Asian Countries: India tries to unite Asian and African countries to strengthen economic and political relations. India believes that these countries can unitedly oppose colonialism and create an atmosphere for the freedom of other Asian and African countries.

6. Faith in Internationalism: One of the principles of India’s foreign policy is its passion for internationalism. India has full faith in all world organisations such as the U.N., UNESCO, ILO, etc.

7. Importance to the principles of the United Nations: Much importance has been attached to the principles of the United Nations in India’s foreign policy.

8. Respect for Human Rights: On December 10, 1948, the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. India has full regard for Human Rights. Almost all the important Human Rights have been included in the Chapters of Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles.

9. India is not Neutral in International Politics: Non-alignment is the very basis of India’s foreign policy but it does not stand for India’s non-participation in international politics. Since India has not joined any group, it adopts the policy of rational judgement. In the words of Pt. Nehru, “We can’t and won’t remain neutral when the freedom is in danger, justice is challenged or invasion is in progress.”

India is partial neither to Russia nor to America. That is why India, like other non-aligned countries, blamed the Soviet Union when the Korean war took place and also held America responsible in the Vietnam war.

10. Panchsheel. Panchsheel is another important contribution of India to international politics. The five principles called ‘Panchsheel’ are as given below:

Nations should respect each other’s territorial unity and sovereignty.
No nation should attack another nation.
No nation should interfere in the internal affairs of another nation.
All the countries of the world would be considered equal irrespective of all distinctions.
All the countries should have peaceful and harmonious co-existence.

11. National Consensus: India’s foreign policy is based on a national consensus.

12. Faith in Disarmament: India has full faith in disarmament.

Question 2.
Explain the meaning of Non-alignment and distinguish it from neutrality.
Answer:
The world was divided into two Blocs after the Second World War: One bloc was headed by the United States of America whereas the Second Bloc was led by the Soviet Union. After independence, Pt. Nehru, the architect of India’s foreign policy, adopted non¬alignment as its base. He clearly pointed out that India, because of its manifold internal problems, could not afford to snap its relations with either of the two blocs, rather it needed assistance from both the blocs. A country with newly attained freedom could not interfere in international affairs. So, the policy of non-alignment was highly useful for the interest of India.

Meaning of Non-alignment: Following are the meanings derived from the policy of non-alignment:
1. Firstly, India will remain independent by not joining any group. It will not join even an organisation formed by different countries of the world.

2. The policy of non-alignment is an independent policy. A nation, by adopting it, can evade subordination of any group, and can easily form its opinion about any problem after its thorough analysis.

3. Non-alignment is a policy of peacefulness. In Congress convention held at Jaipur in 1948, it was stated, “The permanent feature of India’s foreign policy should be to have friendly and co-operative relations with all the nations so that it may remain aloof from those agreements which divide the world into opposed Blocs and endanger world peace.”

4. Non-alignment does not mean neutrality in international affairs.

5. India’s policy of non-alignment is a positive one. India wants to bridge the gap between eastern and western ideology. According to Pt. Nehru, “India’s policy of non-alignment doesn’t mean to follow a middle path. It is a positive as well as a creative policy which aims at achieving some objectives and the elimination of hatred and enmity between other countries.”

The distinction between Non-alignment and Neutrality: Non-alignment and Neutrality are two different concepts. The term neutrality refers to a situation in which a state does not take any side in a war. The term neutrality is basically concerned with war-like situations, whereas Non-alignment is concerned with both war and peace situations.

Neutrality is a term essentially used in International Law, whereas Non-alignment is a term basically used in international relations.

Non-alignment does not mean neutrality in international affairs: Pt. Nehru made it clear that non-alignment does not stand for remaining neutral to international problems. In 1949, while addressing American Congress, Pt. Nehru said, “When the freedom could be threatened and justice would be in peril when the security of a State would be jeopardised, we cannot remain indifferent, and we will not remain different, our policy is not one of indifference. Our policy is that there should be active efforts for world-peace and it should be given a firm foundation.”

Neutrality is a concept close to isolationism: Non-alignment does not mean non-involvement. It means non-aligned nations in world affairs.

In short, neutrality is a negative concept in the sense that it helps to avoid taking sides in a war while Non-alignment is a positive concept, in the sense that it affirms positive commitment to an independent foreign policy.

Question 3.
Do you agree with the statement that the foreign policy of independent India has pursued the dream of a peaceful world”? Support your answer with any three suitable arguments. (C.B.S.E. 2017)
Answer:
On the basis of the following arguments, we can say that “the foreign policy of independent India has pursued the dream of a peaceful world”.
1. Non-alignment:
Following are the meanings derived from the policy of non-alignment:

Firstly, India will remain independent by not joining any group. It will not join even an organisation formed by different countries of the world.
The policy of non-alignment is an independent policy. A nation, by adopting it, can evade subordination of any group, and can easily form its opinion about any problem after its thorough analysis.
Non-alignment is a policy of peacefulness. In Congress convention held at Jaipur in 1948, it was stated, “The permanent feature of India’s foreign policy should be to have friendly and co-operative relations with all the nations so that it may remain aloof from those agreements which divide the world into opposed Blocs and endanger world peace.”
Non-alignment does not mean neutrality in international affairs.
India’s policy of non-alignment is a positive one. India wants to bridge the gap between eastern and western ideology. According to Pt. Nehru, “India’s policy of non-alignment doesn’t mean to follow a middle path. It is a positive as well as a creative policy which aims at achieving some objectives and the elimination of hatred and enmity between other countries.”

2. Away from the Cold War: During the Cold War era, India’s foreign policy was based on the principle of non-alignment. It was long before India became free, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, who in charge of External Affairs in the Interim government, had declared Independent India would keep away from power blocs. In 1946, he declared again that India would follow an independent foreign policy.

He said, “We propose as far as possible, to keep away from the power politics of groups, aligned against one another, which have led in the past to world wars and which may again lead to disaster on an even wider scale.” It was, however, after the attainment of independence by India with unique historical experience, geographical situation, and two perceptions of its national interest by enlightened leadership that non-alignment as a policy came to occupy an important position in international relations.

3. Away from the military organisation: India did not join either of the two superpowers in the military organisation known as NATO and Warsaw Pact.

Question 4.
Examine the efforts taken by Jawaharlal Nehru for the promotion of Afro-Asian Unity. (C.B.S.E. 2019)
Answer:
Following are the efforts taken by Jawaharlal Nehru for the promotion of Afro-Asian Unity.

Pt. Jawahar Lai Nehru was marked by the establishment of contacts between India and newly independent states of Asia and Africa.
Nehru was an ardent advocate of Asian Unity and under his leadership, India convened the Asian Relations Conference in March 1947.
Efforts were made by India for the freedom of Indonesia from the clutches of the Dutch regime and in support of Indonesia’s freedom, India arranged an international conference in 1949.
India firmly opposed racism apartheid in South Africa.
India participated and co-operated in Afro-Asian conference held in the Indonesian city of Bandung in 1955.
Pt. Nehru a co-founder of the NAM-Non Aligned Movement and its first summit was held in Belgrade in September 1961.

Question 5.
Give any three suitable arguments in favour of India being a staunch supporter of the decolonisation process and in firm opposition to racialism. (C.B.S.E. 2017)
Answer:
The following argument will be given in support of India being a staunch supporter of the decolonisation process and in firm opposition to racialism:

Opposition to Imperialists and Colonialists.
The opposition of the Policy of Carte, colour discrimination etc.
Unification of Afro-Asian countries.

Note: For a detailed explanation,
(The basic elements of India’s foreign policy today are the same what they were previously. The only difference is that idealism was emphasised more in the age of Nehru whereas realism got the upper hand in the Shastri-era. But a fine combination of idealism and realism in India’s foreign policy has been witnessed under the leadership of Mrs Gandhi.
Following are the features of India’s foreign policy:
1. Non-alignment: The main characteristic of India’s foreign policy is non-alignment. India itself is a non-aligned country and so its foreign policy is also based on non-alignment.

7. Importance to the principles of the United Nations: Much importance has been attached to the principles of the United Nations in India’s foreign policy.

10. Panchsheel: Panchsheel is another important contribution of India to international politics. The five principles called ‘Panchsheel’ are as given below:

Nations should respect each other’s territorial unity and sovereignty.
No nation should attack another nation.
No nation should interfere in the internal affairs of another nation.
All the countries of the world would be considered equal irrespective of all distinctions.
All the countries should have peaceful and harmonious co-existence.

11. National Consensus: India’s foreign policy is based on a national consensus.
12. Faith in Disarmament: India has full faith in disarmament. )

Question 6.
Analyse the impact on Sino-Indian relations since 1962 onwards. (C.B.S.E. 2017)
Answer:
Before the twentieth century, there was a limited political and cultural interaction between India and China. Till 1962, the relations between the two countries were not very strained. China attacked India on 20 October 1962 over a border dispute. China declared a unilateral ceasefire on 21 November 1962. By waging a war, China was able to capture thousands of miles of Indian territory which is still under Chinese possession.

Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru’s policy of ‘Peace’ was badly affected: Sino-Indian war of 1962 gave a negative impact on ‘Sino-Indian relations.’ China who gave the slogan of ‘Hindi Chini Bhai Bhai’ actually stabbed in the back of India and from that day the relations between India and China got strained. India, now, no more have faith in China. On the other hand, Beijing and Karachi established diplomatic relations. 1963 Pakistan cedes the trans-Karakoram tract to China, ending border disputes. China was showing protective and co-operative attitude towards Pakistan.

However, in 1976, Indo-China relations slightly improved. In 1976, Mr K.R. Narayanan and in 1978 and 1979, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee visited China as ambassadors of peace and friendship. In 1988, Prime Minister Mr Rajiv Gandhi’s visit to China started a new era in Indo-China relations and diplomatic visits cultural exchange, co-operation in science and technology as well as trade relations made by both the countries further improved the relations of the two countries.

Question 7.
How far has India been successful in conducting its foreign policy peacefully and avoiding international conflicts? Explain with the help of examples. (C.B.S.E. 2017)
Answer:
In 1947 India won independence and joined comity of sovereign states and thereby qualified to participate as an actor in international politics and relations. The first prime minister of India Pt. Nehru left a deep impact on the foreign policy of India. Since independence, India is trying to conducting its foreign policy peacefully and avoiding inter-national conflicts. After the second world war, the whole world was divided into two major groups.

But India tactfully refused to be the member of any group and followed the policy of Non-alignment-means not to be aligned with or against any major power bloc. India always sided with truth-it may be Afghan problem or crises of Suez Canal. Both the big bloc’s US and USSR tried to have a friendly relation with India. India co-operated with all peace-loving nations and with the United Nations to promote international peace and prosperity without exploitation of one nation by another. India also gives full support to the principle of freedom of dependent peoples and opposition to racial discrimination in any form or kind.

Question 8.
Evaluate the impact of the Chinese invasion of 1962 indenting India’s image at home and abroad both. (C.B.S.E. 2019)
Answer:
The Chinese invasion of 1962 indenting India’s image at home and abroad can be evaluated in the following way:-

India had to approach the Americans and the British for military assistance to tide over the crises.
During the conflict, the Soviet Union remained neutral.
No-doubt, it induced a sense of humiliation. On the other hand, it also strengthened a spirit of nationalism among Indians.
Some of the top army commanders either resigned or were retired.
Then Defence Minister V. Krishna Menon resigned from the cabinet.
A no-confidence motion was moved against the government for the first time. Nehru’s own stature suffered a lot as he was criticised for his defence and foreign policy.

Question 9.
Read the following passage j carefully and answer the following | questions: (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2016) j

When India conducted its first nuclear test, it was termed as a peaceful explosion. India argued that it was committed to the policy of using nuclear power only for peaceful purposes. The period when the nuclear test was conducted was a difficult period in domestic politics. Following the Arab-Israel War of 1973, the entire world was affected by the Oil Shock due to the massive hike in the oil prices by the Arab nations. It led to the economic turmoil in India resulting in high inflation.
(i) When did India conduct its first nuclear test and why?
Answer:
India conducted its first nuclear test in 1974. India argued that it was committed to the policy of using nuclear power only for peaceful purposes.

(ii) Why was the period, when the nuclear test was conducted in India, considered to be a difficult period in domestic politics?
Answer:
The period when the nuclear test was conducted was a difficult period in the domestic politics of India. Due to the Arab-Israel War of 1973, the whole world was affected by the Oil-shock, which caused the massive hike in the oil-prices by the Arab-nations. This led to the economic turmoil in India also.

(iii) Which international event of the 1970s was responsible for high inflation in India?
Answer:
The Arab-Israel War of the 1970s caused the massive hike in the oil prices by the Arab nations was responsible for high inflation in India.

Question 10.
Two development strained this relationship. China annexed Tibet in 1950 and thus removed a historical buffer between the two countries. Initially, the government of India did not oppose this openly. But as more information came in about the suppression of Tibetan culture, the Indian government grew uneasy. The Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, sought and obtained political asylum in India in 1959. China alleged that the government of India was allowing anti-China activities to take place from within India. (Imp.) (C.B.S.E. 2016)

Read the above passage carefully and answer the following questions:

(i) What is meant by Tiistorical buffer?
Answer:
Buffer State which is weak and which is situated between two large and unfriendly nations. The function of such a buffer State is to keep the large unfriendly powers apart and thus minimise the chances of war between them.” Poland was a buffer State between Russia and Germany.

(ii) Why didn’t the Government of India oppose the annexation of Tibet by China?
Answer:
The government of India did not oppose the annexation of Tibet by China, because India government did not want to hamper its relations with China.

(iii) How far was it justified on the part of India to grant political asylum to the Dalai Lama and thousands of Tibetan refugees?
Answer:
It is justified on the part of India to grant political asylum to the Dalai Lama and thousands of Tibetan refugees because the information came in about the suppression of Tibetan culture by China.

Question 11.
Read the following passage and answer the following questions: (C.B.S.E. Sample Q.P. 2017)
Answer:
India wanted to generate atomic energy for peaceful purposes. Nehru was against nuclear weapons, so he pleaded with the superpowers for comprehensive nuclear disarmament. However, The nuclear arsenal kept rising. When Communist China conducted nuclear tests in October 1964, the five nuclear weapon powers, the USSR. USA, UK, France and Chine (Taiwan represented china) impost the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT) of 1968 on the rest of the world. India always considered the NPT as discriminatory and had refused to sign it. When India conducted its first nuclear test, it was termed as a peaceful explosion. India argued that it was committed to the policy of using nuclear power only for peaceful purposes.
1. What was the plea of Nehru with regard to nuclear energy?
Answer:
Nehru wanted to generate energy for peaceful purposes. He was against nuclear weapons. So he pleaded with superpowers for comprehensive nuclear disarmament.

2. when did India conducts its first nuclear test and why?
Answer:
India conducts its first nuclear test in 1974 to generate atomic energy for peaceful purpose.

3. Why India always considered the NPT as discriminatory and had refused to sign it?
Answer:
India refused to sign NPT because it is selectively applied to the Non-nuclear power and legitimised the monopoly of the five Nuclear Powers.

Question 12.
In spite of strongly Propagating for nuclear disarmament, India herself conducted a nuclear test. In 1998. Analyze the possible reasons behind such a development. Also, state any four important features of India’s Nuclear Policy. (C.B.S.E. Sample Paper 2018)
Answer:
Reasons behind the Nuclear test.

India surrounded by two Nuclear states like China and Pakistan.
China-Pakistan friendship is a major security threat for India.

Features of India’s Nuclear Policy: India is against the policy of nuclear experiment. In principle, India has stood for general and complete disarmament within the framework of the United Nations. Addressing the General Assembly, Mr Rajiv Gandhi, Prime Minister, asked nuclear powers to eliminate all nuclear weapons by the year 2010. India is the sixth country in the world enjoying atomic power by having undertaken successful atomic experiments in 1974. There are four Atomic Power Centres working in India. But this power is being utilised for peaceful and creative purpose and not for making atomic-bombs.

India’s External Relations Important Extra Questions HOTS

Question 1.
What do you understand by the term ‘Non-alignment’ in the context of India’s foreign policy? (D.B. 1991)
Answer:
The main characteristic of India’s foreign policy is non-alignment. Non-alignment means that India will remain independent by not joining any group. Non-alignment is a policy of peacefulness. Non-alignment does not mean neutrality in international affairs. India’s policy of non-alignment is a positive one. India wants to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western ideologies.

Question 2.
What do you mean by Panchsheel? (C.B.S.E. 1991)
Answer:
The word ‘Panchsheel’ stands for five principles of conduct and behaviour. India and China evolved five principles to maintain friendly ties between the two states.

Question 3.
Explain two principles on the basis of which India has established its relations with its neighbours.
Answer:

India has established its relations with neighbouring countries on the principles of equality.
India has established its relations with other countries of the world on the basis of the principle of non¬alignment and promotion of world peace.

Question 4.
Mention two points of tension in India’s relations with Pakistan.
Answer:

Kashmir is a major issue of conflict between India and Pakistan. Pakistan considers Kashmir a disputed area whereas India considers Kashmir a part of India.
Pakistan is helping the terrorists of Kashmir with arms and other materials. Even training is given to terrorists in Pakistan.

Question 5.
What was the Shimla Agreement?
Answer:
On 3rd December 1971, Pakistan attacked India. India faced it bravely and defeated Pakistan very badly. One lakh Pak-soldiers surrendered and General Niazi signed the document of surrender. But Indian Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi, without exploiting the defeat of Pakistan, held a summit conference at Shimla in June 1972 to discuss the problems of both the countries. Pak President Mr Bhutto and Indian Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi participated in this conference. The agreement was reached between Mrs Gandhi and Mrs Bhutto on 3rd July 1972 which is known as the Shimla Agreement.