Ques is based on India-Israel Strategic Partnership.
Ques- India and Israel share a relationship that is rooted in strategic convergence but constrained by geopolitical sensitivities.” Examine the evolution of Indo-Israel relations since 1992 and critically analyze the emerging areas of cooperation in the context of recent global and regional developments. (250 words)
Brief outline to this answer-
Introduction-India Israel relations before 1992
Body- It has 3 parts
- Evolution of India-Israel Strategic Partnership Since 1992
- Areas of Strategic Convergence
- Geopolitical Constraints and Balancing Acts
Conclusion- optimistic, future and solution oriented
Introduction-
India and Israel formally established diplomatic relations in 1992, although informal cooperation—especially in defense—dates back to earlier decades. The relationship is now described as multi-dimensional, However, regional dynamics create diplomatic constraints.
Evolution of India-Israel Strategic Partnership Since 1992
- 1992–2000: Foundation Phase
- Full diplomatic ties established.
- Limited but growing defence cooperation.
- Israel supported India during the Kargil War (1999) with critical intelligence and equipment.
- 2000–2014: Strategic Engagement
- High-level visits began (Ariel Sharon in 2003).
- Israel became a top defence supplier to India.
- Cooperation in counter-terrorism and homeland security increased post-26/11 Mumbai attacks.
- 2014–Present: Deepening Partnership
- PM Modi’s visit to Israel (2017)—first by an Indian PM—marked a diplomatic shift.
- Creation of India-Israel CEOs Forum, Joint Working Groups in areas like innovation and cyber security.
- Establishment of I2U2 grouping in 2022 for strategic collaboration.
Areas of Strategic Convergence for India & Israel
- Defence and Security
- Israel is India’s second-largest defence supplier (e.g., UAVs, missiles, radar).
- Joint development of Barak-8 missile system, Heron drones, etc.
- Growing cooperation on cybersecurity and border surveillance.
- Agriculture and Water Management
- Israel’s expertise in micro-irrigation and arid agriculture has led to 29 Centres of Excellence in India.
- Collaboration on water desalination and recycling.
- Science, Technology & Innovation
- Israel is a global leader in innovation; joint R&D projects under India-Israel Industrial R&D and Technological Innovation Fund (I4F).
- India is emerging as a tech manufacturing base for Israeli companies.
- Space and Cyber Cooperation
- Cooperation between ISRO and Israel Space Agency in satellite development.
- Increasing convergence on cyber threats and AI-based defence systems.
Geopolitical Constraints and Balancing Acts for India & Israel
- Palestine Question- India supports a two-state solution and votes cautiously on Israel-Palestine issues at the UN. India is balancing ties with Israel while maintaining goodwill in Arab and Gulf countries.
- Energy Diplomacy- India’s dependence on oil from Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran necessitates a careful diplomatic stance.
- Recent Conflicts- Israel-Hamas conflict (2023–24) tests India’s diplomatic tightrope walk—India condemned terrorism but also expressed concern over humanitarian impact in Gaza.
Conclusion
Indo-Israel relations have matured into a strategic partnership, driven by shared interests in defense, technology, and innovation. However, India’s broader West Asia policy, energy interests, and global image as a supporter of multilateralism require a calibrated and balanced approach. Going forward, enhancing people-to-people ties, economic trade, and multilateral cooperation can further deepen the strategic trust.
If you found this helpful, you might also like these articles:
📌 [https://upscmatters.com/quick-commerce-vs-kirana-stores-survival-future/ ]
📌 [https://upscmatters.com/buddhism-vs-jainism-vs-vedic-culture-a-comparison/ ]
They cover key concepts that will boost your preparation! 🚀
📢 Stay Updated with the Best UPSC Resources!
Join our Telegram Channel for:
✅ Daily Current Affairs
✅ Important Notes & PDFs
✅ Answer Writing Tips
✅ Strategy & Motivation
📲 Click the link to join now: [https://t.me/upscmatters] or [https://t.me/ramsirnotes]
Don’t miss out on valuable updates! 🚀
