Topic: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues
1) In the 1971 Bangladesh War, India’s intervention achieved strategic objectives while maintaining a humanitarian veneer. Analyse. (250 Words)
Why this question?
This topic is related to modern Indian history. Questions on India’s wars in its post-independence years are favourites of UPSC.
Key demand of the question:
Prove that India’s intervention was not an altruistic exercise, but had strategic objectives. Also write how it helped India maintain an image of humanitarian intervention.
Directive Word:
Analyse– In several parts(categories), address demand of the question through facts and opinions.
Structure of Answer:
In the introduction, write why 1971 War is a milestone event for India – highlight the deftness with which India managed to maintain humanitarian image and also achieve its strategic objectives. https://www.insightsonindia.com/2015/05/05/6-what-did-india-gain-from-the-1971-bangladesh-war-critically-comment-200-words/
In the body, divide answer into TWO main parts: First to analyse strategic objectives that India achieved. Categorise into Breaking Pakistan, New Ally – something similar to these and within them explain why it was not an altruistic exercise (wherever necessary). Second part to analyse how India managed to make it appear as a humanitarian exercise – domestically and internationally.
In the conclusion write few lines how the 1971 War has helped India in the long term(Bangladesh is closer now, not a thorn in the flesh)
TIP: Don’t show strong emotions(nationalist/religious) in your answers. Try to be neutral and objective.
