GD TOPIC NOTES: India's ties with west are important because

R2R - GUIDING SSB ASPIRANTS LIKE AN ELDER SIBLING

R2R GD TOPIC NOTES

20 SSB BHOPAL

According to your opinion, India's ties with west are important because of-
1) Strategic importance
2) Trade
3) Technology sharing

"In the modern world, alliances are not just about politics but about economic growth, security, and technological progress." 

India’s engagement with the West—primarily the U.S., European Union, and other key allies—plays a crucial role in its rise as a global power. The relationship is built on strategic importance, trade, and technology sharing, each of which impacts India’s growth and global influence.


1. Strategic Importance – Strengthening India’s Global Position
  • The QUAD alliance (India, U.S., Japan, Australia) strengthens India's position in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • Western support in countering China's aggression in the Indian Ocean and along the LAC is crucial for India’s security.
  • Defense partnerships with the U.S. and France have improved India’s military capabilities (e.g., Rafale jets, Predator drones).
  • The West supports India in international organizations like the UN, G20, and WTO, helping it secure diplomatic backing.
Impact on India: 
Stronger deterrence against China and Pakistan.
Access to modern military technology and intelligence-sharing.
Recognition as a global player in security and diplomacy.

2. Trade – Boosting Economic Growth
  • The U.S. and EU are India’s largest export destinations, accounting for nearly 35% of total exports.
  • Bilateral trade between India and the U.S. reached $191 billion in 2023, making the U.S. India's largest trading partner.
  • India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations aim to increase trade and investment in key sectors.
  • Western FDI in India (U.S. and EU companies) boosts job creation, especially in manufacturing and IT.
Impact on India: 
Stronger economy through increased exports of software, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.
More job opportunities in IT, manufacturing, and services.
Access to global markets, reducing dependence on China.

3. Technology Sharing – Driving India’s Innovation & Growth
  • U.S.-India tech partnerships in AI, space, and cybersecurity enhance India's digital infrastructure.
  • Defense technology agreements (like the GE-414 jet engine deal with the U.S.) strengthen India's self-reliance.
  • Semiconductor collaboration with the U.S. is critical to India’s goal of becoming a global chip manufacturing hub.
  • Medical and pharmaceutical collaborations help India develop cutting-edge vaccines and treatments.
Impact on India: 
Faster development of AI, defense, and digital technologies.
Stronger startup ecosystem with Western venture capital investments.
Self-reliance in key sectors like defense and semiconductors.

Conclusion: What is the Most Important Factor?  [opinion]

While all three areas are crucial, strategic importance is the primary reason India needs strong ties with the West because:

  • It ensures national security and geopolitical stability.
  • Without strategic alliances, trade and technology cooperation would be less effective.
  • In a world with growing tensions (China’s rise, Russia-Ukraine war), India needs strong Western backing.
India’s relationship with the West is not just beneficial—it is essential for its rise as a global superpower.

Sachin Jangir

AIR 128 - NDA 152

OUR COURSES View More