Relevance : GS Paper II
Theme of the Article
India needs a measure of political consensus on regional policies.
Disadvantage of Absence of Consensus
India’s adversaries will continue to gain ground in India’s neighbourhood.
Involving States in Foreign Policy
- Modi government enhanced the role of states in India’s engagement with the world.
- It created a “states division” in the Ministry of External Affairs.
- It has also hosted visiting dignitaries in state capitals.
The Coalition Problem
- During UPA, some states had unprecedented control over foreign policy towards the neighbours.
- West Bengal govt derailed agreements such as Teesta water sharing.
- To keep Tamil Nadu parties happy, Delhi could not pursue an independent policy towards Sri Lanka.
The Majority Government
Absolute majority had an immediate positive effect on foreign policy, for example, in relations with Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Rival Politics not Always a Problem
Congress govt in Punjab had worked in tandem with the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government at the Centre.
Conclusion
India needs a measure of political consensus on regional policies.
