| Paper | GS Paper 2 |
| Word Limit | 150 words |
| Syllabus Topic | International Relations – Effect of policies of developed and developing countries on India’s interests |
Model Answer
After the Cold War ended in 1991, the world embraced globalisation: open trade, capital and ideas. Today, states put borders, security and self-reliance first. This trend is called sovereign nationalism.
From hyper-globalisation to guarded interdependence
Signs of Sovereign Nationalism
- Trade: Brexit (2016 referendum) and the US–China tariff war since 2018.
- Weak multilateralism: The WTO Appellate Body has not worked since December 2019.
- Health: Vaccine nationalism during COVID-19.
- Security: The Russia–Ukraine war (2022) and sanctions split the world economy.
- Technology: Data localisation and export controls on chips.
Globalisation Is Changing, Not Ending
- Supply chains are shifting through friend-shoring.
- Climate change and terrorism still need joint action.
India’s Approach
- Atmanirbhar Bharat (2020) and exit from RCEP (2019).
- Strategic autonomy through QUAD, BRICS and SCO.
Conclusion
The world is moving towards guarded interdependence. India’s G20 motto, One Earth, One Family, One Future, balances national interest with global good.
Related PYQs
- “The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised Nations has disappeared on account of its new found role in the emerging global order”. Elaborate. (2019)
- Do you think that globalization results in only an aggressive consumer culture? Justify your answer. (2025)
- “Energy security constitutes the dominant kingpin of India’s foreign policy, and is linked with India’s overarching influence in Middle Eastern countries.” How would you integrate energy security with India’s foreign policy trajectories in the coming years? (2025)
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