Source: The Hindu
The destiny of the world in the twenty-first century will be determined by the strength of the United States’ relationship with India, according to Vice President J.D. Vance, who is advocating for deeper links in the defense and energy sectors. Increased access to Indian markets was desired by the United States because it would foster partnerships across several industries and benefit the populace.
While negotiating a bilateral trade agreement, the two nations had determined key areas for generating new jobs, establishing long-lasting supply chains, and attaining worker prosperity. Noting that India will shortly host the Quad Leader’s Summit, they emphasized the importance of an Indo-Pacific region that was free, open, peaceful, and prosperous. India’s aspirations for artificial energy can be supported by American energy by helping it achieve its nuclear power production targets.
Model Question:
“India-US relations have evolved from estrangement to engagement. Analyze the trajectory of this transformation and discuss the current challenges and opportunities in this strategic partnership.”
Model Answer:
India-US relations have undergone a significant transformation over the decades, from mutual suspicion during the Cold War era to a robust strategic partnership in the 21st century.
During the Cold War, India’s non-alignment policy and strategic closeness to the Soviet Union led to a period of estrangement with the United States. Key irritants included India’s 1974 nuclear test and U.S. support to Pakistan. However, the post-Cold War period witnessed a thaw in relations, particularly with the economic liberalization of India in 1991.
A landmark shift occurred in the 2000s with the India-US Civil Nuclear Deal (2005), which symbolized trust and mutual strategic interest. This was further reinforced through defense cooperation, such as the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) and Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA). The designation of India as a “Major Defense Partner” in 2016 marked a new high.
Economically, bilateral trade has expanded to over $190 billion (2023), with growing cooperation in technology, energy, and education. In global diplomacy, both countries collaborate on forums like QUAD, promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.
However, challenges persist. These include divergent views on global issues (e.g., Russia-Ukraine war), trade protectionism, visa-related concerns, and India’s strategic autonomy in foreign policy. Additionally, issues related to human rights and data sovereignty occasionally create friction.
Despite these, the convergence of interests in counterterrorism, climate change, defense, and technology ensures the partnership’s continued growth. For India, balancing strategic autonomy with deeper US engagement will be key in navigating the evolving global order.
