How to Approach International Relations in GS Paper 2 for UPSC

How to Approach International Relations in GS Paper 2 for UPSC

International Relations (IR) is a significant portion of General Studies (GS) Paper 2 for the UPSC Civil Services Mains examination. This subject encompasses India’s foreign policy, bilateral and multilateral relations, international organizations, and global geopolitical trends. Understanding how to prepare for international relations in GS is crucial for aspirants aiming to write analytical and high-scoring answers. In this blog, we will discuss how to approach the subject, structure your preparation, and use reliable sources for studying.

Why is International Relations Important in GS Paper 2?

The international relations in GS section is important not only for GS Paper 2 but also for the essay paper and interview stage. It helps build your perspective on global issues and India’s role in international affairs. Given the increasing interconnectedness of countries, diplomacy, trade relations, and global governance have become focal points for UPSC. The questions asked are often analytical and require a balance between factual knowledge and critical thinking.

Key Areas to Focus on in International Relations in GS

1. India’s Bilateral Relations
   • India’s relations with major countries such as the U.S., Russia, China, Japan, and the EU should be studied in depth. Focus on areas of cooperation such as defense, trade, energy, and technology, as well as areas of conflict or divergence.
   • The relationship with neighboring countries like Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka forms the core of India’s foreign policy. An understanding of South Asia’s geopolitics is crucial for international relations in GS.
2. Multilateral Organizations
   • Study India’s role in the United Nations (UN), World Trade Organization (WTO), International Monetary Fund (IMF), and World Bank. Recent developments like reforms in the UN Security Council and India’s campaign for a permanent seat are crucial topics.
   • India’s participation in regional organizations like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and BRICS is essential for comprehensive preparation.
3. Global Issues
   • Global issues such as climate change, terrorism, cyber security, nuclear proliferation, and the refugee crisis should be prepared with an India-centric view. These issues form the basis of questions that require an understanding of how India is involved and its approach to solving these challenges.
   • Aspirants should study India’s efforts in global initiatives like the Paris Climate Agreement, International Solar Alliance (ISA), and other platforms that shape global governance.
4. Foreign Policy and Diplomacy
   • Understanding the evolution of India’s foreign policy—from Nehruvian ideals to the present—gives you a solid foundation. Concepts such as Non-Alignment, Strategic Autonomy, and Act East Policy should be on your fingertips.
   • Additionally, the concept of “Neighborhood First” and India’s maritime diplomacy in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) have become key elements of its international strategy.
5. Current Affairs
   • The importance of current affairs cannot be overstated when preparing for international relations in GS. Keep track of recent visits of Indian leaders, major international summits like the G20 or SCO, defense deals, and changes in global alignments.
   • Follow the changing dynamics in global trade, especially the rise of protectionism, India’s stance in international trade disputes, and its negotiations in organizations like WTO.

How to Approach the Study of International Relations in GS

1. Use Standard Books and Materials

• M. Laxmikanth’s Governance and International Relations: This book provides a strong foundation, especially in understanding India’s foreign policy and relations with other countries.
• Pavneet Singh’s International Relations in GS for UPSC: One of the best resources for covering key topics comprehensively. It provides in-depth insights into bilateral relations, multilateral organizations, and India’s role in the international arena.

2. Study Materials from Sleepy Classes

Sleepy Classes offers topic-wise breakdowns of important themes in international relations in GS. Video lectures focusing on current events, diplomatic relations, and India’s evolving foreign policy can help you stay updated. PDFs and revision notes from the platform are also helpful in revisiting key points before the exam.

3. Refer to Government Sources and Reports

For an accurate understanding of India’s foreign policy, regularly follow the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) website and its annual reports. These provide authentic information on India’s bilateral, multilateral, and regional engagements. Government policy documents such as the National Security Strategy and speeches by the Prime Minister or External Affairs Minister are also valuable.

4. Read Newspapers and Journals

• The Hindu and Indian Express are excellent for following international developments, especially editorials that provide in-depth analysis of India’s foreign relations.
• Journals like Economic and Political Weekly (EPW) offer detailed articles on global issues and how they affect India. Subscribing to ORF (Observer Research Foundation) and IDSA (Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses) can also give insights into strategic affairs and global politics.

5. Make Notes

Organize your study material into well-structured notes. Create separate sections for bilateral relations, multilateral engagements, and thematic global issues like climate change, terrorism, or global economic crises. Your notes should be brief, focusing on key facts, agreements, and analytical perspectives, which will make revision easier during the last stages of preparation.

Answer Writing Strategy

In the exam, questions on international relations in GS are not purely factual. They demand an analytical approach where you balance facts, policies, and your understanding of India’s role on the global stage. Here’s how you can structure your answers:

1. Introduction: Begin by defining the core issue, followed by a brief mention of its importance in India’s foreign policy.
2. Body: Divide the body into subheadings. If the question is on bilateral relations, focus on different areas of cooperation (like trade, defense, diplomacy) under separate subheadings. Provide data, agreements, and quotes from officials or international bodies to substantiate your points.
3. Conclusion: Always end on a positive note, suggesting a way forward, especially when dealing with conflictual areas. Highlight India’s role as a rising global power and its contributions to international peace and development.

Conclusion

Preparing for international relations in GS requires a holistic approach, involving a blend of static knowledge and current affairs. Focus on India’s foreign relations, multilateral diplomacy, and global challenges while consistently revising and practicing answer writing. Use sources like standard books, Sleepy Classes‘ study materials, newspapers, and government reports to build a well-rounded understanding. A balanced and analytical approach to this section will ensure that you can write high-scoring answers in the UPSC Mains exam.