Hindu Editorial Analysis : 24-June-2024
The recent visit of India’s Prime Minister to the United States marked an important milestone in military aerospace technology. The US administration has proposed to restart a decade-old plan to transfer jet engine technology to India. This initiative is set to bolster defense ties and enhance India’s military capabilities.
Overview of India-US Bilateral Relations
India and the United States have experienced a complex relationship since India gained independence. Over the years, both countries have overcome Cold War-era mistrust and disagreements regarding India’s nuclear program. Recent years have seen a warming of relations, characterized by growing cooperation in various sectors:
- Bilateral Trade: Between 2017-18 and 2022-23, trade between India and the US increased by 72%. The US contributed to 18% of India’s gross Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in 2021-22.
- Defense and Security: The two nations have signed key foundational agreements for military cooperation, including:
- Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016
- Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) in 2018
- Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) in 2020
- In 2016, India was recognized as a major defense partner by the US.
- Space Cooperation: India signed the Artemis Accords, fostering a collaborative approach to space exploration.
- Multilateral Engagement: India and the US work closely in organizations like the UN, G20, and World Bank. They also collaborate in the Quad with Australia and Japan, promoting a free Indo-Pacific region.
Recent Developments and Challenges
Despite the strengthening ties, there are significant challenges:
- Conflicting Positions: India’s reluctance to openly criticize Russia’s actions in Ukraine has caused some frustration in the West. This raises questions about India’s role as a reliable security partner.
- Limited Utility in Conflicts: India’s participation in potential US-led military responses, particularly in scenarios involving Taiwan and China, remains uncertain.
- Defense Relations with Russia: India’s purchase of military hardware from Russia, like the S-400 air defense system, concerns the US. It complicates military interoperability and the sharing of sensitive technologies.
Concerns for India
While the US and India share a growing strategic partnership, several issues warrant attention:
- Strategic Trust vs. Dependency on Russia: India’s reliance on Russian military supplies and its cautious stance on the Ukraine conflict complicate the partnership.
- Democratic Values: The US has raised concerns over India’s treatment of minorities and certain domestic policies, such as the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. These issues could affect bilateral relations.
- Trade Agreements: Although trade is growing, the lack of comprehensive structural agreements has hindered potential economic growth. Addressing trade challenges is vital for a deeper relationship.
Why In News
The recent visit of the Prime Minister of India to the United States led to a significant development in the field of military aerospace technology, with the US administration offering to restart a decade-old plan to transfer jet engine technology to India. This move aims to strengthen bilateral defense ties and enhance India’s military capabilities, while also signaling a deeper commitment to collaborative innovation and strategic partnership between the two nations.
MCQs about India-US Relations
- What was a significant development during the Prime Minister of India’s recent visit to the United States?
A. Signing of a new trade agreement
B. Restarting the jet engine technology transfer plan
C. Establishing a military base in the US
D. Expanding space exploration initiatives
- Which of the following foundational agreements was signed in 2016 to enhance military cooperation between India and the US?
A. Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA)
B. Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA)
C. Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA)
D. Artemis Accords
- What challenge does India face in its defense relationship with the US regarding its military imports?
A. India primarily buys arms from the US.
B. India’s reliance on Russian military supplies raises concerns.
C. India does not have any defense agreements.
D. India has stopped all military purchases.
- What area of concern has the US raised regarding India’s domestic policies?
A. Economic growth and trade agreements
B. Environmental regulations
C. Treatment of minorities and religious freedom
D. Space exploration initiatives
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