UPSC CARE Mains Practice 10th February 2026
Mains Practice Questions for the Day
- In the context of the Ukraine war and US pressure on Russian oil imports, examine how India balances its relations with Russia and the United States. Discuss the challenges involved and suggest a way forward. (GS Paper II – International Relations)
- How are recent Budgetary interventions and enhanced access to the European Union market likely to transform the AYUSH sector from a domestic public health programme into a globally competitive industry? Critically examine the opportunities and challenges involved. (GS Paper III Economy & Science & Technology)
In the context of the Ukraine war and US pressure on Russian oil imports, examine how India balances its relations with Russia and the United States. Discuss the challenges involved and suggest a way forward. (GS Paper II – International Relations)
Introduction:
India’s foreign policy is guided by strategic autonomy and multi-alignment. The US claim that India has agreed to stop buying Russian oil, in the backdrop of the Ukraine war, has brought into focus India’s challenge of balancing its traditional partnership with Russia and its expanding strategic and economic engagement with the United States.
Body
India’s Engagement with Russia and the US
Russia remains a critical partner for India in defence and energy security. Nearly 60% of India’s military platforms are of Russian origin, and discounted Russian crude helped India manage inflation and ensure affordable energy supplies after 2022. Russia has also been a reliable source of advanced defence technologies.
At the same time, the United States is India’s largest trading partner, a major investor, and a key technology and strategic partner. Initiatives such as iCET, Indo-Pacific cooperation, and growing services and high-technology trade are central to India’s long-term economic and strategic interests.
Challenges in the Current Geopolitical Context
India faces multiple constraints. Russia’s increasing economic dependence on China may limit its strategic neutrality in a Sino-Indian crisis. Heavy defence dependence on Russia creates vulnerabilities in spares and maintenance, while rapid diversification risks short-term operational readiness. Economically, replacing discounted Russian oil with costlier alternatives may increase inflation and widen the Current Account Deficit. Diplomatically, sustained ambiguity in great-power rivalries could affect India’s credibility as a Global South leader.
Way Forward
India must continue a calibrated balancing strategy by accelerating defence indigenisation under Atmanirbhar Bharat, diversifying energy sources through a portfolio approach, expanding Strategic Petroleum Reserves, and leveraging platforms like Quad and BRICS to maintain strategic space.
Conclusion:
India’s objective is not exclusive alignment but interest-based engagement. By combining diversification, indigenisation, and pragmatic diplomacy, India can manage competing pressures while preserving strategic autonomy in a fragmented global order.
The India–Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership reflects India’s growing engagement with Southeast Asia in an evolving Indo-Pacific order. Discuss the significance of the partnership and the challenges that may affect its long-term potential. (GS Paper II – International Relations)
Introduction:
India and Malaysia reaffirmed their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during the Prime Minister’s 2026 visit, highlighting shared interests in trade, security, digital transformation, and regional stability. The partnership aligns with India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision.
Body
Significance
1. Strategic Importance
- Enhances India’s presence in Southeast Asia.
- Supports a free and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
2. Economic Opportunities
- Expansion in semiconductors, digital economy, and renewable energy.
- Local currency settlement reduces forex risks.
3. Defence and Security
- Joint exercises and counter-terror cooperation strengthen regional security.
4. Supply Chain Resilience
- Helps diversify global supply chains away from concentrated geographies.
5. Cultural and Diaspora Links
- Indian community acts as a bridge for deeper engagement.
Challenges
- Competition from China in ASEAN.
- Trade imbalances and regulatory barriers.
- Palm oil disputes and environmental concerns.
- Geopolitical pressures within the Indo-Pacific.
- Need for faster implementation of agreements.
Way Forward
- Accelerate trade agreements and digital partnerships.
- Expand maritime cooperation.
- Promote resilient supply chains.
- Enhance people-to-people exchanges.
- Align cooperation with emerging technologies.
Conclusion:
The India–Malaysia partnership is evolving from economic engagement to a multidimensional strategic relationship. Sustained cooperation and effective execution can make it a cornerstone of India’s Southeast Asia strategy and contribute to regional stability.
