Chapter C — International Relations

Coverage: 1 January 2025 – 3 June 2026 Sources: MEA briefs, PIB, White House joint statements, EU Commission, MFA China, ORF, Chatham House, Brookings, Carnegie, ICWA, IISS, USTR, BRICS-India 2026 portal, Wikipedia (verified) Static link backbone: NCERT Class 12 Contemporary World Politics; India and the World (Rajiv Sikri); MEA Annual Report 2024-25

Contents (35 Topics)

1. SCO Tianjin Summit 2025 — Modi’s China visit after 7 years
2. BRICS Rio Summit 2025 + India’s 2026 BRICS Chairship
3. India-China reset (Wang Yi–Jaishankar Aug 2025; LAC patrolling agreement)
4. Quad Leaders’ Summit Delhi 2025 + Quad FM Meeting Delhi 26 May 2026
5. India-US relations under Trump 2.0: COMPACT, tariffs, Interim Trade Deal Feb 2026
6. India-EU FTA 27 January 2026 — “Mother of All Deals”
7. India-UK CETA (signed 24 July 2025)
8. India-Oman CEPA (December 2025, effective 1 June 2026)
9. India-New Zealand FTA (announced 22 December 2025)
10. India-EFTA TEPA — entry into force 1 October 2025
11. India-Russia relations — energy, S-400, Putin visit, sanctions pressure
12. Operation Sindoor (May 2025) & Pahalgam terror attack (April 2025)
13. Bangladesh — Yunus interim govt to BNP victory, Tarique Rahman era
14. Nepal — Gen-Z protests Sept 2025, 5 March 2026 elections, Balendra Shah
15. Sri Lanka — Dissanayake govt continuity; debt restructuring
16. Maldives — Muizzu recalibration; Indian troops withdrawal aftermath
17. Bhutan — Gelephu Mindfulness City; hydropower; trade USD 1.77 bn
18. Myanmar — civil war, Free Movement Regime suspension, Kaladan
19. Pakistan — Indus Waters Treaty suspension (post-Pahalgam); ceasefire
20. Afghanistan — Taliban engagement, MEA technical mission Kabul
21. IMEC — India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor progress
22. INSTC + Chabahar 10-year contract (May 2024) — operationalisation
23. BIMSTEC 6th Summit Bangkok 4 April 2025 + IORA MoU
24. IORA Council of Ministers 2025; India’s blue-economy push
25. Voice of Global South Summit 4th edition; “Vishwa Mitra”
26. G20 — Johannesburg 2025 follow-through; G20 Miami 2026 (US chair)
27. Indo-Pacific architecture — MAHASAGAR, IPOI, Necklace of Diamonds
28. Republic Day 2026 — von der Leyen & António Costa as chief guests
29. India-Germany strategic partnership (Jan 2026 defence-trade-tech pact)
30. India-France — Rafale-M deal, Jaitapur, defence R&D agreement Nov 2025
31. India-Japan — Annual summit, JICA, semiconductor cooperation
32. India-ASEAN — Act East review, FTA upgrade (AITIGA review 2025)
33. India-Africa — 2026 India-Africa Forum Summit prep, ITEC, Vaccine Maitri
34. West Asia crisis — Iran-Israel 12-day war (Jun 2025), Gaza, Strait of Hormuz
35. AI Impact Summit New Delhi 19 February 2026 — “DPI-AI for Public Good”

1. SCO Tianjin Summit 2025 — Modi’s China Visit After 7 Years

📌 In Brief: Modi attended the 25th SCO Heads-of-State Council Summit at Tianjin, China (31 Aug–1 Sept 2025) — his first visit to China since the 2018 Wuhan informal summit and first SCO summit in person since 2022.

• Why in News: Marks the most significant thaw in India-China ties since the 2020 Galwan stand-off; signals Modi’s “strategic autonomy” response to US tariff coercion.
• What it is: SCO = Eurasian political-security-economic bloc (founded Shanghai 15 Jun 2001). Members: China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India & Pakistan (2017), Iran (2023), Belarus (2024) — 10 full members.
• Key facts: China held rotating presidency 2024-25; Kyrgyzstan takes over 2025-26 → 2026 SCO Summit in Bishkek. Tianjin Declaration condemned terrorism, called for UN-led reformed multilateralism. India did not endorse the BRI paragraph (consistent stand since 2017 Astana).
• Static Link: SCO HQ = Beijing; RATS (Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure) HQ = Tashkent.
• 🔗 International linkage: SCO covers ~40% world population, ~30% global GDP, ~80% Eurasian landmass.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: First SCO Summit India hosted = 2023 (virtual, India was Chair). India joined as observer 2005; full member 2017 Astana. China supported India’s 2026 BRICS Chairship; India supports China’s 2027 BRICS Chairship.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Belarus = 10th and newest full member (July 2024 Astana)
  2. SCO Secretary-General (2025-27): Nurlan Yermekbayev (Kazakhstan)
  3. India did not join SCO’s BRI endorsement
  4. SCO Charter signed 2002 St Petersburg; entered force Sept 2003
  5. India-Pakistan-Iran-Belarus all are SCO members but not BRICS (Iran is now BRICS)
• ⚠ UPSC Trap: Don’t confuse SCO Council of Heads of State (annual, leaders) with Council of Heads of Government (PM-level). Don’t confuse RATS (anti-terror) with SCO Business Council.
• One-line revision: Modi’s Tianjin visit (Aug 2025) = first to China since 2018; thaw with Beijing amid Trump tariff pressure; 2026 Summit goes to Bishkek.

2. BRICS Rio Summit 2025 + India’s 2026 BRICS Chairship

📌 In Brief: 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (6–7 July 2025). India assumes BRICS Chair in 2026 (4th time after 2012, 2016, 2021). Theme: “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability” — same acronym BRICS.

• Why in News: Modi articulated “humanity-first” people-centric BRICS at Rio; India launched BRICS 2026 portal (brics2026.gov.in).
• Key facts:
  • Full members (Jan 2024 onwards): Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE (Saudi Arabia formally accepted Jan 2025 but participation status pending), Indonesia (Jan 2025) = 10 members.
  • 2025 Partner Countries (new category): Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Vietnam.
  • NDB (New Development Bank) HQ Shanghai; President: Dilma Rousseff (term extended to 2027). Authorised capital USD 100 bn.
  • CRA (Contingent Reserve Arrangement) corpus USD 100 bn.
  • 17 Summits concluded by 2025; 18th = India 2026; 19th = China 2027.
• 🔗 International linkage: BRICS = ~46% world population, ~37% global GDP (PPP), ~25% of global trade.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: India’s BRICS 2026 logo = lotus centre with petals in BRICS member colours + Namaste gesture.
• ⚠ UPSC Trap: Argentina’s membership invitation (2024) was withdrawn by Milei govt; Saudi Arabia’s status remains formally invited but ambiguous; don’t list either as full member.
• Probable Prelims Facts:
  1. Rio 2025 was Brazil’s 4th time hosting (1st 2010, 2014, 2019)
  2. India is BRICS Chair for 4th time in 2026
  3. NDB India regional office in Gandhinagar (GIFT City)
  4. BRICS Pay = cross-border payment initiative
• One-line revision: Rio 2025 → India BRICS Chair 2026 → Bishkek SCO 2026 → China BRICS 2027.

3. India-China Reset (Aug 2025 Wang Yi–Jaishankar Outcomes)

📌 In Brief: Chinese FM Wang Yi visited New Delhi 18-20 August 2025 (first since Galwan). Joint outcomes document listed 10 deliverables.

• Key outcomes (memorise list):
  1. Resume direct flights & update Air Services Agreement
  2. Resume People-to-People High-Level Mechanism (3rd meeting in India 2026)
  3. Resume Kailash Manasarovar Yatra (operational from June 2025)
  4. Eased visa regime for businesses, tourists, media, students
  5. Mutual support for hosting BRICS 2026 (India) and 2027 (China)
  6. 75th anniversary of India-China diplomatic relations (1 April 1950) commemoration
  7. Continued Special Representatives Talks on boundary
  8. Resumption of Border Trade at Nathu La / Lipulekh / Shipki La (in principle)
  9. Cooperation on rare-earths & critical minerals dialogue
  10. Strategic & long-term perspective on relations
• Backbone: Built on Oct 2024 Galwan/Depsang patrolling agreement (Modi-Xi met Kazan BRICS Oct 2024 — first bilateral in 5 years).
• ⚠ UPSC Trap: No agreement yet on boundary delimitation; LAC infrastructure build-up continues on both sides.
• 🔗 Static Link: SR-level talks framework established 2003; this is the 22nd round (Dec 2024, Beijing — NSA Doval & Wang Yi).
• One-line revision: Aug 2025 Wang Yi visit = 10-point reset; flights, visas, Kailash Yatra restored; boundary still unresolved.

4. Quad — Delhi Leaders’ Summit 2025 + FM Meeting May 2026

📌 In Brief: India hosted Quad Leaders’ Summit at New Delhi (postponed from late-2025 to Q4 2025 / early 2026 window). Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held Delhi, 26 May 2026 (Jaishankar + Rubio + Penny Wong + Toshimitsu Motegi).

• Static base: Quad = India, US, Japan, Australia. Revived 2017 Manila; first leaders’ summit (virtual) March 2021; in-person 2021 Washington, 2022 Tokyo, 2023 Hiroshima (sidelines), 2024 Wilmington (USA).
• Delhi outcomes (2025-26 cycle):
  • Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network — operational pilot
  • Quad Ports of the Future Partnership — Mumbai hosted Regional Ports & Transportation Conference 2025
  • Quad Cancer Moonshot — HPV vaccination roll-out
  • Quad Critical Minerals Initiative — e-waste recovery, supply-chain diversification
  • Quad Cable Connectivity & Resilience — US-India undersea cables forum
  • AI-ENGAGE for Indo-Pacific agriculture
  • Quad STEM Fellowship + India’s 50-scholarship engineering programme
• May 2026 FM Meeting agenda: West Asia crisis, Strait of Hormuz, semiconductors, rare earths, maritime surveillance.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: India also part of Quad Health Security Partnership (since 2023). Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission launched Wilmington 2024.
• ⚠ UPSC Trap: Quad is not a treaty alliance; no mutual defence clause. Don’t confuse with AUKUS (Australia-UK-US, 2021).
• One-line revision: Quad Delhi 2025-26 = ports, critical minerals, cancer moonshot, AI-ENGAGE; non-treaty, non-military, Indo-Pacific focused.

5. India-US Relations under Trump 2.0

📌 In Brief: A turbulent 18 months — from Modi-Trump bonhomie (13 Feb 2025 White House visit launching COMPACT) → 50% punitive tariffs (Jul-Aug 2025) → SC ruling against tariffs (20 Feb 2026) → Interim Trade Agreement framework (7 Feb 2026, tariffs cut from 50% to 18%).

• Timeline:
  • 13 Feb 2025: Modi-Trump joint statement → launched U.S.-India COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology). Terms of Reference for BTA signed 7 April 2025 (VP J.D. Vance visit).
  • 30 Jul 2025: Trump imposed 25% reciprocal tariff + 25% penalty for Russian oil purchases (total 50%).
  • May 2025: Operation Sindoor + Tharoor-led 10-member multi-party delegation to US.
  • 2 Feb 2026: Interim Trade Agreement framework — tariffs slashed 50% → 18%; India to cut tariffs on US goods, buy more US oil, defence, aircraft, pharma (~USD 500 bn over years).
  • 20 Feb 2026: US Supreme Court ruling struck down Trump’s emergency tariffs.
  • 21 May 2026: Secretary Rubio visits India in “repair mode”.
• 🔗 Defence: iCET (2023); GE-F414 jet engine co-production (HAL); MQ-9B Predator drones (USD 3.5 bn). Strategic Trade Authorisation Tier-1 status (continued).
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: US is India’s largest trading partner in goods FY25 (~USD 130 bn); top FDI source.
• ⚠ UPSC Trap: COMPACT ≠ COMPETES Act. Don’t confuse iCET (tech) with TRUST (Transforming Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology, 2025 announcement at Modi-Trump meet).
• One-line revision: Modi-Trump 13 Feb 2025 = COMPACT; 50% tariffs imposed Jul 2025 → cut to 18% via Interim Deal Feb 2026; SC struck down tariffs 20 Feb 2026.

6. India-EU FTA — “Mother of All Deals” (27 January 2026)

📌 In Brief: Concluded after 19 years of negotiations (started 2007, relaunched June 2022). Announced at 16th India-EU Summit, New Delhi, 27 Jan 2026 — Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa as Republic Day chief guests.

• Coverage: Goods, services, GIs, mobility, migration, investment protection. ~25% of global GDP.
• Key tariff terms:
  • EU eliminates duties on chemicals, machinery, electrical, aircraft/spacecraft (phased)
  • India cuts auto tariffs from 110% to 10% under a 250,000-vehicle quota (6× UK CETA’s 37,000)
  • India cuts wine, beer, olive oil duties
  • Phased reductions; provisional entry into force expected early 2027
• Parallel: Mobility & Migration Agreement signed same day → boosts legal pathways for Indian students & skilled workers.
• 🔗 Linked issues: EU CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) effective 1 Jan 2026 — covers steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers, hydrogen, electricity. India’s CCTS is a hedge.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: EU is India’s largest trading partner in goods (combined): €120 bn in 2024 (~11.5% Indian trade). India = EU’s 9th largest partner.
• ⚠ UPSC Trap: FTA was concluded Jan 2026, but legally not yet in force — needs European Parliament + Council + member-state + Indian Cabinet ratification.
• One-line revision: India-EU FTA = announced 27 Jan 2026 New Delhi summit; “mother of all deals”; 25% world GDP; entry into force early 2027.

7. India-UK CETA — Signed 24 July 2025

📌 In Brief: Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between India and the United Kingdom signed in London (PM Modi & PM Keir Starmer; commerce ministers Goyal & Reynolds).

• Headline numbers:
  • 99% of Indian exports to UK get duty-free access
  • UK Scotch whisky tariff cut 150% → 75% (10-yr phase to 40%)
  • UK car tariffs to India: quota of 37,000 vehicles at concessional duty
  • Bilateral trade to double from £43 bn (2024) → £86 bn by 2030
  • Double Contribution Convention (DCC) — 3-year social security exemption for Indian workers in UK
• Sectors: IT/ITeS, textiles, leather, gems & jewellery, marine, pharma gains for India; Scotch, autos, machinery for UK.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: India’s largest FTA in goods value until EU FTA.
• ⚠ UPSC Trap: Carve-outs: dairy, apples, oats, edible oils excluded for Indian farmers’ protection.
• One-line revision: India-UK CETA = signed 24 Jul 2025; 99% duty-free; auto quota 37k; DCC for workers.

8. India-Oman CEPA — Signed December 2025 (effective 1 June 2026)

📌 In Brief: India’s second CEPA with a GCC country (after UAE 2022). Signed during Sultan Haitham’s/PM Modi exchange in December 2025.

• Coverage: Goods, services, investment, digital trade, IPR.
• Strategic: Oman = entry to GCC; Duqm port (India’s Logistics Memorandum, 2018) gives Indian Navy access; close to Chabahar.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Effective 1 June 2026. India-Oman trade ~USD 11 bn (FY 2024-25).
• One-line revision: India-Oman CEPA = 2nd CEPA in GCC; effective 1 June 2026; Duqm-Chabahar linkage.

9. India-New Zealand FTA — Announced 22 December 2025

📌 In Brief: Bilateral FTA announced at PM Christopher Luxon’s India visit (Dec 2025). Negotiations relaunched after 2015 stall.

• Sensitive carve-out: Dairy excluded (protecting Indian farmers from NZ’s low-cost dairy).
• Gains for India: Services, IT, education mobility, kiwifruit duty cuts.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: India-NZ trade ~USD 1.75 bn; potential to triple.
• One-line revision: India-NZ FTA announced Dec 2025; dairy excluded; services-led.

10. India-EFTA TEPA — Entry into Force 1 October 2025

📌 In Brief: Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement with European Free Trade Association (Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein) signed 10 March 2024; entered into force 1 October 2025.

• Headline: EFTA committed to USD 100 billion FDI into India over 15 years + 1 million jobs (legally binding investment chapter — first time India has such a clause).
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: TEPA covers 14 chapters — trade in goods, services, investment, IPR, sustainable development.
• ⚠ UPSC Trap: EFTA ≠ EU. EFTA has only 4 members; not part of EU customs union (except Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein via EEA).
• One-line revision: India-EFTA TEPA = signed Mar 2024, in force Oct 2025; USD 100 bn FDI binding commitment.

11. India-Russia Relations — Energy, Sanctions Squeeze, Putin Visit

📌 In Brief: Russia remained India’s largest crude oil supplier through 2025 (~35-40% of imports). Trade ~USD 70 bn (2024-25), CAD-distorting.

• Key developments:
  • 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit: Held in New Delhi, 5-6 December 2025 (Putin’s first India visit since 2021). Outcomes: extension of military-technical cooperation programme to 2031, S-400 final squadrons delivery commitment, Kudankulam units 5-6 fuelling.
  • Modi visit to Moscow Jul 2024 + Vladivostok 2025 Eastern Economic Forum address.
  • Order of St. Andrew the Apostle (Russia’s highest) conferred on Modi (Jul 2024).
  • Zapad 2025 military exercises — India participated (EU criticised).
  • US sanctions secondary pressure (Trump’s 25% Russia-oil penalty tariff on India).
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Rupee-Rouble trade and INSTC are critical workarounds. India is not a sanctions enforcer; consistent strategic autonomy line.
• One-line revision: Putin Delhi visit Dec 2025 = first since 2021; oil + S-400 + Kudankulam; Russia still India’s top crude supplier.

12. Operation Sindoor (May 2025) & Pahalgam Terror Attack (22 April 2025)

📌 In Brief: 22 April 2025: Pahalgam (Baisaran meadow, J&K) attack — 26 civilians (mostly tourists) killed by Pakistan-based TRF/LeT. 7 May 2025: India launched Operation Sindoor — precision strikes on 9 terror infrastructure sites in PoK & Pakistan (Bahawalpur, Muridke etc.). India-Pakistan exchanged fire 7-10 May; ceasefire 10 May (DGMO hotline).

• Diplomatic fallout:
  • Indus Waters Treaty (1960) — placed in abeyance by India on 23 April 2025 (first-ever).
  • SAARC visa exemption suspended for Pakistan nationals.
  • Wagah-Attari closed; Pakistani diplomats expelled.
  • All-party multi-nation outreach — 7 delegations to 33 capitals (Tharoor → US/Canada; others to UK, EU, Africa, ASEAN, Gulf, Latin America).
• Trump claim: Repeatedly said US-mediated ceasefire — India rejected mediation publicly.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: TRF (The Resistance Front) = LeT proxy, designated terrorist organisation by India in Jan 2023; UN 1267 designation pending.
• ⚠ UPSC Trap: IWT is suspended/in abeyance, not abrogated. The treaty has no exit clause.
• One-line revision: Pahalgam 22 Apr 2025 → Op Sindoor 7 May 2025 → IWT abeyance; ceasefire 10 May; no third-party mediation.

13. Bangladesh — Yunus Interim → BNP Govt (2026)

📌 In Brief: After Sheikh Hasina’s ouster (5 Aug 2024), Muhammad Yunus led an interim government (Aug 2024–Feb 2026). General elections held Feb 2026 → BNP (Bangladesh Nationalist Party) under Tarique Rahman wins; AL barred from contesting (banned May 2025).

• India-BD friction points (2024-26):
  • Hasina’s extradition demanded by Dhaka (India refused — pending case)
  • Attacks on Hindu minorities; ISKCON monk Chinmoy Krishna Das arrested (Nov 2024)
  • Adani-Godda power supply payment disputes
  • China’s growing footprint (Teesta River project takeover offer)
• 2026 outlook: Tarique Rahman govt has signalled “positive revision” of ties (per Vivekananda IF, Feb 2026 paper). Modi sent congratulatory message.
• 🔗 Static: Ganges Water Treaty 1996 expires December 2026 — renewal talks ongoing.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: India-BD share 4,096 km border (India’s longest). 5 Indian states border BD: WB, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram.
• One-line revision: Yunus interim → BNP/Tarique Rahman wins Feb 2026; Ganges Treaty renewal due Dec 2026.

14. Nepal — Gen-Z Protests + 5 March 2026 Elections + Balendra Shah

📌 In Brief: 8-9 September 2025: Massive Gen-Z protests against corruption and youth unemployment toppled K.P. Sharma Oli’s govt. Mid-term elections held 5 March 2026; Balendra Shah (Mayor of Kathmandu) emerged as a key political force.

• India’s response:
  • Provided 650 vehicles + riot-control equipment (250 already delivered) to Nepal for electoral security
  • Budget 2026 allocated ₹800 crore for Nepal (highest in years)
  • Modi-PM Nepal talks at sidelines of UNGA Sept 2025
• Issues: Cartographic dispute (Limpiyadhura-Lipulekh-Kalapani in Nepal’s 2020 map); Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project delay; air pollution Kathmandu.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Nepal-India border = 1,751 km (open border per 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship). Indian states: Bihar, UP, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, WB.
• One-line revision: Nepal Gen-Z protests Sep 2025 → elections 5 Mar 2026; India provided 650 vehicles + ₹800 cr; Balendra Shah on rise.

15. Sri Lanka — Dissanayake’s NPP Govt; Debt Restructuring Complete

📌 In Brief: Anura Kumara Dissanayake (NPP/JVP) continues as President since Sept 2024. Sri Lanka completed external debt restructuring under IMF EFF (USD 2.9 bn, 2023-27) in 2025.

• India angle: India extended USD 4 bn rescue (2022-23); Modi’s state visit April 2025 — 7 MoUs incl. Sampur 120 MW solar power (NTPC), Trincomalee energy hub, UPI link launch, digital health.
• Adani Group exit: Adani withdrew from 484 MW Mannar/Pooneryn wind projects (Feb 2025) after tariff renegotiation pressure.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Katchatheevu issue raised by ruling party in TN; India’s 1974/76 agreements maintained.
• One-line revision: Modi visit Apr 2025; Sampur solar + Trincomalee energy hub; debt restructuring done; Adani wind exit.

16. Maldives — Muizzu Recalibration after Indian Troops Pull-out

📌 In Brief: All ~85 Indian military personnel (operating 2 Dhruv helicopters + 1 Dornier) replaced with Indian civilians by 10 May 2024 (under Muizzu’s “India Out”). But since 2025, ties recovered sharply.

• Modi’s Maldives state visit, 25-26 July 2025 (10th anniversary of Indian independence celebrated by Muizzu personally hosting). Outcomes:
  • USD 565 million Line of Credit from EXIM Bank
  • INR-MVR local currency settlement
  • Free Trade Agreement negotiation launched
  • Defence cooperation MoU; Uthuru Thila Falhu (UTF) port project
• 🔗 Static: Maldives part of Colombo Security Conclave (with India, SL, Mauritius, BD, Seychelles).
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Maldives is currently chair of IORA (2024-26 term).
• One-line revision: Muizzu’s July 2025 reset; USD 565 mn LoC; FTA launched; IORA chair 2024-26.

17. Bhutan — Gelephu Mindfulness City + Hydropower

📌 In Brief: Bhutan formally launched the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) as a Special Administrative Region (SAR) near the Indian border (Assam side) — vision of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.

• India support:
  • Cross-border rail link Kokrajhar (Assam) – Gelephu (USD 1 bn, India-funded; foundation stone laid Nov 2024)
  • Bhutan’s 13th Five Year Plan (2024-29) supported by India with ₹10,000 crore (largest ever).
  • Sankosh hydro project revived; Punatsangchhu-I and II completion timelines accelerated.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: India-Bhutan bilateral trade USD 1,777 million (FY 2024-25). India is Bhutan’s top trade partner, donor, and security guarantor (1949 Treaty, revised 2007).
• One-line revision: Gelephu Mindfulness City SAR + Kokrajhar-Gelephu rail; ₹10,000 cr for 13th FYP; bilateral trade USD 1.78 bn.

18. Myanmar — Civil War, FMR Suspension, Kaladan Project

📌 In Brief: Post-2021 coup civil war continues. Free Movement Regime (FMR) along India-Myanmar border (allowed 16 km cross-border free movement) suspended by India (Feb 2024); border fencing of 1,643 km approved (₹31,000 cr).

• Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project: Sittwe port operational (May 2023); Paletwa-Zorinpui road delayed by conflict.
• MEA engagement: Engages with junta + NUG + EAOs equally. Operation Sadbhav (Sep 2024) — humanitarian aid post-Typhoon Yagi.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Myanmar borders 4 Indian states: Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram. Manipur ethnic conflict (Kuki-Meitei) linked.
• One-line revision: FMR suspended Feb 2024; border fencing ₹31k cr; Kaladan Sittwe operational; Manipur conflict spillover.

19. Pakistan — IWT Suspension + Post-Sindoor Freeze

📌 In Brief: India suspended Indus Waters Treaty (1960) on 23 April 2025 post-Pahalgam. SAARC dormant; bilateral trade near-zero; Kartarpur Corridor operational.

• Treaty mechanics: IWT signed 19 Sept 1960 Karachi (Nehru + Ayub Khan + World Bank). India = Eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, Sutlej); Pakistan = Western (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab). Permanent Indus Commission meetings suspended.
• Court of Arbitration ruling (June 2025): PCA ruled it has jurisdiction over Kishenganga-Ratle dispute despite India’s objection. India did not participate.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Neutral Expert (Michel Lino, World Bank-appointed) parallel process. India insists on Neutral Expert track only.
• One-line revision: IWT abeyance Apr 2025; Court of Arbitration ruled jurisdiction June 2025; India boycotts arbitration.

20. Afghanistan — Engaging the Taliban

📌 In Brief: India re-engaged with Taliban through MEA Joint Secretary J.P. Singh visits to Kabul (Jan + Nov 2025). India’s technical mission in Kabul reopened. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Acting FM Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai (Jan 2025).

• Humanitarian assistance: 50,000 MT wheat, medicines, COVID vaccines, earthquake aid.
• Concerns: ISIS-K, China’s BRI extension, Pakistani-Taliban friction (TTP). India has not granted diplomatic recognition.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: India has not closed its Kabul embassy formally; has a “technical team” only.
• One-line revision: MEA-Taliban engagement Jan/Nov 2025; humanitarian only; no recognition.

21. IMEC — India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor

📌 In Brief: Announced at G20 New Delhi Sept 2023 (MoU among India, US, EU, France, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, UAE). Stalled during 2024 Gaza war; revived in 2025-26 with US backing.

• Two corridors:
  • Eastern Corridor: India → UAE (sea)
  • Northern Corridor: UAE → Saudi → Jordan → Israel → Europe (rail + Piraeus)
• Status: US Trump admin 2025 listed IMEC as priority counter to BRI. India-UAE-Saudi-Greece quadrilateral feasibility talks ongoing. France appointed Special Envoy for IMEC.
• 🔗 Linked: I2U2 (India-Israel-UAE-US) continues; IMEC is its extension.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Bypasses Suez Canal & avoids BRI/CPEC. Greece’s Piraeus Port is European gateway.
• One-line revision: IMEC = G20 2023 announcement, revived 2025-26; two corridors; bypasses Suez; counter-BRI.

22. INSTC + Chabahar 10-Year Contract

📌 In Brief: International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) = 7,200 km multi-modal route Mumbai → Bandar Abbas/Chabahar → Iran → Caspian → Russia (St. Petersburg) → Europe.

• Chabahar: India-Iran 10-year contract for Shahid Beheshti terminal operations signed 13 May 2024 by IPGL (India Ports Global Ltd).
• 2025 developments: Despite Trump’s sanctions on Iran (Jan 2026 — 25% tariff for Iran-trading countries), India continued Chabahar operations (carve-out). Armenia added as INSTC node 2024. First INSTC freight train (Russia → India via Iran) ran 2024.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Chabahar lies on Gulf of Oman (not Persian Gulf); strategically positioned 90 km west of Pakistan’s Gwadar (Chinese).
• One-line revision: INSTC 7,200 km; Chabahar IPGL 10-yr deal May 2024; Armenia added; Trump tariff threat but US carve-out.

23. BIMSTEC 6th Summit Bangkok (4 April 2025) + IORA MoU

📌 In Brief: 6th BIMSTEC Leaders’ Summit held in Bangkok, Thailand on 4 April 2025. Theme: “BIMSTEC – Prosperous, Resilient and Open”. Bangkok Vision 2030 adopted.

• Outcomes:
  • BIMSTEC Charter entry into force (already done May 2024)
  • MoU with IORA signed (BIMSTEC SG H.E. Indra Mani Pandey + IORA SG Sanjiv Ranjan) — first interregional bridge
  • Maritime Transport Agreement signed
  • New Sectors added: Blue Economy, Disaster Management, People-to-People connectivity expanded
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: BIMSTEC members (7): BD, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand. HQ Dhaka. SG Indra Mani Pandey (India, 2024-27). Founded 6 June 1997 Bangkok (originally BIST-EC).
• ⚠ UPSC Trap: BIMSTEC = 7 members, not 6. Was earlier wrongly called Bay of Bengal Initiative; full name = Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation.
• One-line revision: 6th BIMSTEC Bangkok 4 Apr 2025; Bangkok Vision 2030; IORA MoU; SG = Indra Mani Pandey (India).

24. IORA Council of Ministers + India’s Blue Economy

📌 In Brief: Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) = 23 member states (Comoros added 2020) + 11 dialogue partners. Maldives chairs 2024-26, India = Vice-chair (will assume chair 2026-28).

• 2025 COM (Council of Ministers) meeting held Oct 2025; reviewed Jakarta Declaration. India pushed Blue Economy + Maritime Safety + Women in Maritime.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: IORA HQ Cyber City, Ebene, Mauritius. SG (2025-28): Sanjiv Ranjan (India).
• 6 Priority Areas: Maritime safety, trade facilitation, fisheries, DRR, S&T, tourism.
• One-line revision: IORA = 23 members; Maldives chair 2024-26; SG Sanjiv Ranjan (India); HQ Mauritius.

25. Voice of Global South Summit — 4th Edition

📌 In Brief: India hosted the 4th Voice of Global South Summit (VOGSS) in virtual mode in August 2025. ~125-130 developing countries participated.

• Earlier: VOGSS-1 (Jan 2023), VOGSS-2 (Nov 2023, post-G20), VOGSS-3 (Aug 2024).
• Outcomes of 4th: DAKSHIN (Development & Knowledge Sharing Initiative) expansion; Global South Centre of Excellence (launched in 2023); Aarogya Maitri health initiative; UN reform pitch.
• PM’s phrasing: Modi articulated “Vishwa Mitra” (Friend of the World) doctrine; called for representation in UNSC and Bretton Woods.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: African Union became permanent G20 member at India’s G20 Presidency (Sept 2023) — flagship Global South achievement.
• One-line revision: VOGSS-4 Aug 2025; “Vishwa Mitra”; DAKSHIN, Aarogya Maitri; 125+ countries.

26. G20 — Johannesburg 2025 + G20 Miami 2026

📌 In Brief: 2025 G20 Summit: Johannesburg, South Africa, 22-23 Nov 2025 — theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”. First African continent G20.

• 2026 G20: Miami, USA — theme “Pragmatic, Innovative, Prosperity”. Trump declined to attend Johannesburg; sent JD Vance.
• Outgoing-incoming Troika 2025-26: Indonesia → Brazil → South Africa → USA. Poland invited to start accession process to G20.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: 2027 G20 host = UK (London). India was 2023 host.
• One-line revision: Johannesburg G20 2025 (Africa first); Miami G20 2026 (Trump host); UK 2027.

27. Indo-Pacific Architecture — MAHASAGAR, IPOI, Necklace of Diamonds

📌 In Brief: Modi at Mauritius (Mar 2025) unveiled MAHASAGAR vision = Mutual And Holistic Advancement for Security And Growth Across Regions — evolution of SAGAR (2015 Mauritius).

• IPOI: Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (UNGA 2019); 7 pillars (maritime security; capacity building; ecology; resources; DRR; trade-connectivity; S&T).
• Necklace of Diamonds: Chabahar, Duqm, Sabang, Sittwe, Agalega (Mauritius — inaugurated Feb 2024), Changi — to counter China’s String of Pearls.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: MAHASAGAR succeeds SAGAR; pillar in Indian Ocean diplomacy.
• One-line revision: SAGAR (2015) → MAHASAGAR (Mar 2025 Mauritius); IPOI = 7 pillars; ND counters String of Pearls.

28. Republic Day 2026 — Von der Leyen & António Costa as Chief Guests

📌 In Brief: Republic Day 2026 (26 January 2026) — chief guests = Ursula von der Leyen (European Commission President) & António Costa (European Council President). First time two EU leaders jointly as chief guests.

• Significance: Coincided with India-EU FTA conclusion (27 Jan 2026).
• Earlier chief guests recap: 2025 — President Prabowo Subianto (Indonesia); 2024 — Emmanuel Macron (France).
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Pattern of recent invitations reflects India’s alignment priorities — France 2024, Indonesia 2025, EU 2026.
• One-line revision: RD 2026 chief guests = von der Leyen + Costa (EU); first dual-EU; signalled India-EU FTA.

29. India-Germany Strategic Partnership Refresh (Jan 2026)

📌 In Brief: 12 January 2026 — Germany & India deepened strategic partnership with wide-ranging agreements across defence, trade, and technology. Friedrich Merz (Chancellor since 2025 elections) visited New Delhi.

• Deliverables: Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap; Green & Sustainable Development Partnership Phase-2; Skilled Labour Mobility Pact (90,000 Indian workers/year visa quota — up from 20,000); P-75I submarine MoU (ThyssenKrupp + MDL).
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Germany = India’s largest EU trade partner; bilateral trade ~€33 bn (2024).
• One-line revision: India-Germany Jan 2026 = P-75I MoU + 90k skilled visa quota + Green Partnership-2.

30. India-France — Rafale-M, Jaitapur, Defence R&D Agreement

📌 In Brief: 26 Rafale-Marine (Rafale-M) jet deal signed 28 April 2025 — ₹63,000 cr (USD 7.4 bn). 22 single-seat + 4 twin-seat (trainer); for INS Vikrant + INS Vikramaditya.

• DRDO-DGA Technical Agreement (Nov 2025) for joint defence R&D.
• Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant: EPR reactors with EDF (Areva) — 6 × 1,650 MW = 9,900 MW at Madban, Maharashtra. Civil works to begin 2026.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: France = India’s 2nd-largest defence supplier (after Russia); 1998 strategic partnership (1st India had with any country post-Cold War).
• One-line revision: Rafale-M 26 jets ₹63k cr Apr 2025; Jaitapur 9,900 MW EPR; DRDO-DGA R&D Nov 2025.

31. India-Japan — Annual Summit + Semiconductors

📌 In Brief: India-Japan Annual Summit: PM Shigeru Ishiba visited New Delhi (Aug 2025). Reaffirmed Special Strategic & Global Partnership (since 2014).

• Deliverables:
  • Japan committed ¥10 trillion (~USD 68 bn) in investments over 5 years (recommitment of 2022 pledge)
  • Bullet Train (Mumbai-Ahmedabad HSR) — Sabarmati to Surat section to open 2027; Shinkansen E10 series tech transfer
  • Semiconductor cooperation: Rapidus tie-up with India for advanced-node fab
  • JICA Loan ₹15,000 cr for Delhi-Meerut RRTS Phase-2 + Bengaluru Metro
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: 2+2 Foreign-Defence ministerial 4th edition held 2025.
• One-line revision: Ishiba-Modi Aug 2025; ¥10 tn investment; HSR 2027; Rapidus semiconductor tie-up.

32. India-ASEAN — AITIGA Review + Act East

📌 In Brief: ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA, 2009) review concluded substantively in 2025; target full conclusion 2026.

• 2025 EAS & ASEAN-India Summits: Held Kuala Lumpur (Oct 2025). Modi pushed ASEAN-India Plan of Action 2026-30; cyber, maritime security, semiconductor R&D, green economy.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: ASEAN = India’s 4th largest trade partner. India-ASEAN trade ~USD 110 bn (FY 2024-25). FTA signed 2009; in force Jan 2010.
• Static: ASEAN = 10 members + Timor-Leste (observer, accession 2025). HQ Jakarta.
• One-line revision: AITIGA review near-complete; ASEAN-India POA 2026-30; trade ~USD 110 bn.

33. India-Africa — 2026 India-Africa Forum Summit Prep

📌 In Brief: 4th India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-IV) scheduled for 2nd half of 2026 in New Delhi (last IAFS-III was 2015). All 54 AU members invited.

• Recent India-Africa moves:
  • AU permanent G20 membership (delivered by India 2023)
  • ₹1,000 cr LoC for African Union Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) capacity-building
  • Vaccine Maitri 2.0; ITEC capacity-building for ~5,000 African students
  • India-Tanzania strategic partnership (2023); India-Egypt strategic partnership (2023); India-Kenya defence cooperation framework (2023)
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: India has 47 missions in Africa; opened new missions in Estonia/Ireland-style expansion to Burkina Faso, Mauritania etc.
• One-line revision: IAFS-IV in Delhi H2 2026; AU permanent G20; 47 Indian missions; ITEC 5,000 scholarships.

34. West Asia Crisis — Iran-Israel 12-Day War (June 2025)

📌 In Brief: 12-day Iran-Israel war (13-25 June 2025) — Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites (Natanz, Fordow) + IRGC commanders; Iranian missile retaliation; US joined with B-2 bunker-buster strikes (22 Jun). Ceasefire 25 Jun via Qatari/Omani mediation.

• India’s position: Called for restraint, dialogue; abstained at UNHRC. Operation Sindhu evacuated 4,500+ Indians from Iran + 1,000 from Israel.
• Strait of Hormuz risk: ~85% of India’s crude imports transit Hormuz; oil spiked to USD 95/bbl briefly.
• Gaza: Hamas-Israel ceasefire collapsed multiple times in 2025; India continues two-state solution stand. India contributed USD 5 mn to UNRWA + medicines.
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Abraham Accords expansion stalled; Saudi-Israel normalisation paused; IMEC depends on regional stability.
• One-line revision: Iran-Israel 12-day war Jun 2025; Op Sindhu evacuation; Hormuz risk; IMEC blocked.

35. AI Impact Summit — New Delhi, 19 February 2026

📌 In Brief: First India-hosted AI Impact Summit convened in New Delhi on 19 February 2026 — global heads of AI labs (Sam Altman/OpenAI; Dario Amodei/Anthropic; Demis Hassabis/Google DeepMind), 100+ countries.

• Theme: “AI for All: DPI-AI for Public Good”.
• Outcomes:
  • New Delhi Declaration on AI — focus on safety, inclusion, sustainability, Global South access
  • Global AI Compute Coalition (10 founding countries)
  • India’s AI Safety Institute announced (under MeitY)
  • Continued in series after Bletchley (UK, Nov 2023) → Seoul (May 2024) → Paris (Feb 2025) → New Delhi (Feb 2026)
• 🎯 Prelims Angle: Modi co-chaired Paris Feb 2025 with Macron — this was succession-handover.
• One-line revision: AI Impact Summit New Delhi 19 Feb 2026; New Delhi Declaration; Bletchley → Seoul → Paris → Delhi sequence.

📌 Prelims Facts Strip — Chapter C (Memorise)

🎯 Chapter C — 15 UPSC-Standard MCQs

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO):

1. Belarus became the 10th full member in 2024.
2. India joined SCO as a full member in 2017 at the Astana Summit.
3. The 2026 SCO Heads of State Summit will be held in Bishkek.

Which of the above statements are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Q2. With reference to BRICS, consider the following statements:

1. As of 2025, BRICS has ten full member countries.
2. The New Development Bank is headquartered in Beijing.
3. India will chair BRICS in 2026 for the fourth time.

Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation: NDB HQ is in Shanghai, not Beijing.

Q3. The “India–EU Free Trade Agreement” concluded in January 2026:

1. Was finalised after over 19 years of negotiations.
2. Reduces Indian tariffs on EU automobiles from 110% to 10% under a quota.
3. Was signed at the 16th India–EU Summit in Brussels.

Which of the above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation: The summit was held in New Delhi on 27 Jan 2026.

Q4. Consider the following pairs of agreement and year of signing/entry into force:

1. India–UK CETA — signed July 2025
2. India–EFTA TEPA — entered into force October 2025
3. India–Oman CEPA — effective June 2026

How many pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None

Q5. With reference to the U.S.-India COMPACT announced in 2025, COMPACT stands for: (a) Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology (b) Combined Operations for Mutual Pacific Action and Counter-Terrorism (c) Cooperative Mechanism for Pacific Allies, Commerce & Technology (d) Coalition of Major Partners Against Coercion and Threats

Q6. Operation Sindoor (May 2025) was India’s military response to which terror attack? (a) Pulwama, February 2019 (b) Uri, September 2016 (c) Pahalgam, April 2025 (d) Reasi, June 2024

Q7. Which of the following statements about the Indus Waters Treaty is/are correct?

1. The treaty was signed in 1960 at Karachi.
2. The treaty has no provision for unilateral withdrawal.
3. India placed the treaty in abeyance in April 2025.

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Q8. The “Gelephu Mindfulness City” project is associated with: (a) India and Nepal (b) India and Myanmar (c) India and Bhutan (d) India and Bangladesh

Q9. Consider the following statements about BIMSTEC:

1. The 6th BIMSTEC Summit was held in Bangkok in April 2025.
2. Its Secretary-General is currently from India.
3. BIMSTEC has signed an MoU with the Indian Ocean Rim Association.

Which of the above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Q10. Which one of the following is not a full member of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)? (a) Maldives (b) Comoros (c) Japan (d) Iran

Explanation: Japan is a Dialogue Partner, not a member.

Q11. The “MAHASAGAR” vision unveiled by India in 2025 is a successor to: (a) IPOI (b) Necklace of Diamonds (c) SAGAR doctrine of 2015 (d) Project Mausam

Q12. Consider the following statements regarding the Chabahar port:

1. India and Iran signed a 10-year operational contract in May 2024.
2. The port is located on the Gulf of Oman.
3. It is operated on behalf of India by IPGL.

Which of the above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Q13. Which of the following were the Chief Guests at India’s Republic Day 2026 celebrations? (a) President of France only (b) President of Indonesia and PM of Singapore (c) President of the European Commission and President of the European Council (d) PM of Japan and PM of Australia

Q14. Which of the following is/are correct about the AI Impact Summit held in New Delhi in February 2026?

1. It was the fourth in the series after Bletchley Park, Seoul, and Paris.
2. It adopted the “New Delhi Declaration on AI”.
3. India announced setting up of an AI Safety Institute under MeitY.

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

Q15. Consider the following:

1. India-UAE CEPA — 2022
2. India-Australia ECTA — 2022
3. India-EFTA TEPA — 2024 (signed)
4. India-UK CETA — 2025 (signed)

Arrange in correct chronological order of signing: (a) 2 → 1 → 3 → 4 (b) 1 → 3 → 2 → 4 (c) 1 → 2 → 3 → 4 (d) 3 → 1 → 2 → 4

Explanation: India-UAE CEPA Feb 2022; ECTA Apr 2022; EFTA TEPA Mar 2024; UK CETA Jul 2025.

End of Chapter C — International Relations Next chapter: D — Environment & Ecology