← All questionsGS2 · 2013 · International Relations ·Gujral Doctrine and Its Relevance
MAINS 2013
GS2
10 marks

What is meant by Gujral doctrine? Does it have any relevance today? Discuss.

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7 min
200 words
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What the examiner wants

Explain the Gujral doctrine and assess its relevance to India's neighbourhood policy today.

What is meant; DiscussAnswer exactly what the question asks.

Demand-wise check

  1. 1Five principles: no reciprocity demanded from smaller neighbours; no territory used against another; non-interference; respect for sovereignty; bilateral peaceful settlement≈35 words
  2. 2Outcomes: Ganga Water Treaty with Bangladesh (1996); improved ties with Nepal and Sri Lanka≈35 words
  3. 3Relevance: Neighbourhood First and SAGAR echo non-reciprocity; crisis aid to Sri Lanka (2022)≈35 words
  4. 4Limits: excludes Pakistan in practice; criticised for ignoring security (e.g. Gujral halting covert operations); China's competition demands more hard power≈35 words

Open in about 30 words and close in about 30.

Answer plan

Context (1996-97)Five principlesResultsRelevance today with examplesLimitsConclusion

Where marks usually go

  • Not listing the five principles
  • Saying it applied equally to Pakistan

Draw this

  • Table: principle → current policy that reflects it

Value addition

  • TreatyGanga Water Treaty (December 1996) set Farakka sharing for 30 years.India-Bangladesh, 1996
  • ExampleIndia gave Sri Lanka about $4 billion in credit lines and support during its 2022 crisis.MEA, 2022