Mains Practice Questions

Introduction

India and the United States, the world’s two largest democracies, have undergone a remarkable transformation in their bilateral relations. From being "estranged democracies" during the Cold War to becoming "strategic partners", this evolution reflects shifting geopolitical dynamics, economic convergence, and defense cooperation.

Body

Evolution of in India-US Relations:

• Cold War Era: The Period of Estrangement
  • Non-Alignment Policy (1950s–1980s): India’s non-aligned stance and close ties with the Soviet Union strained relations with the US, which had a strong alliance with Pakistan.
    • US Military Aid to Pakistan: The 1954 US-Pakistan military pact and arms supplies widened the gap.
• Nuclear Tests and Sanctions: India’s 1974 nuclear test (Smiling Buddha) led to US-imposed sanctions, further distancing relations.
• Post-Cold War: Economic and Diplomatic Rapprochement (1990s–2004)
  • Economic Liberalization (1991): India’s economic reforms attracted US investment, leading to greater economic interdependence.
    • With the Soviet Union’s collapse, India reoriented its foreign policy towards the US.
  • Next Steps in Strategic Partnership (NSSP, 2004): Marked a shift towards defense, high-tech trade, and space collaboration.
• Civil Nuclear Agreement: The Turning Point (2005–2008)
  • The 2008 Civil Nuclear Deal ended India's nuclear isolation, recognizing it as a responsible nuclear power.
    • Enabled civil nuclear cooperation despite India being a non-signatory to the NPT.
• Strengthening Defense and Strategic Cooperation (2010–2020)
  • Designation as Major Defense Partner (2016): Allowed India access to high-end military technology.
  • Foundational Defense Agreements: LEMOA (2016), COMCASA (2018), BECA (2020)
  • Joint Military Exercises: Expansion of Malabar (US-India-Japan-Australia), Yudh Abhyas, and Vajra Prahar.
• Transformed Economic and Trade Partnership (2020–Present)
  • Increased US FDI in India, particularly in technology, energy, and healthcare.
  • US-India Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP, 2021) aimed at renewable energy and green technology
  • Emerging Sectors of Collaboration
    • AI, Quantum Computing, and 5G:
      • US-India Artificial Intelligence Initiative (2022) focuses on AI and cybersecurity.
      • Critical and Emerging Technology Initiative (iCET, 2022) promotes joint innovation.

While India-US ties have undergone significant transformation, key challenges persist:

• Trade Barriers: US concerns over India’s trade surplus, tariffs, and data localization; India’s issues with US steel tariffs, GSP removal, and WTO disputes.
• Strategic Autonomy: India’s Russia ties (S-400 deal) and neutral Ukraine stance strain US ties; BRICS & SCO seen as balancing acts.
• Defense & Tech: Delays in COMCASA/BECA due to security concerns; US export controls limit tech access.
• Visa Issues: H-1B restrictions and green card backlog impact Indian professionals.

Measures to Strengthen the Strategic Partnership:

• Economic and Trade Relations: Fast-track bilateral trade agreement, resolve tariff disputes, and boost investment in manufacturing.
• Defense and Security: Enhance joint defense production under Defence Technology and Trade Initiative and improve cybersecurity collaboration.
• Technology & Digital Cooperation: Expand partnerships in AI, quantum computing, and semiconductors; increase US investment in India’s digital infrastructure.
• Indo-Pacific Strategy: Strengthen QUAD cooperation and maritime security in the Indian Ocean.
• Immigration & Workforce: Streamline H-1B visa processes and expedite green card approvals for skilled workers.

Conclusion

India-US relations have transformed from distant democracies to indispensable strategic partners. From Cold War tensions to present-day cooperation in defense, trade, technology, and Indo-Pacific security, the trajectory highlights shared democratic values, economic interdependence, and geopolitical alignment.