50 Questions on India’s Foreign Policy — GK Quiz with Answers

India's foreign policy is a fascinating and dynamic subject, reflecting the nation's rich history, strategic ambitions, and evolving role on the global stage. From the principles of non-alignment established by Jawaharlal Nehru to the more recent emphasis on multi-alignment and strategic autonomy, India's diplomatic approach has continuously adapted to a changing world order. This comprehensive guide and interactive quiz will test your knowledge on key aspects of Indian foreign relations, covering everything from historical milestones and key diplomatic agreements to India’s engagement with international organizations and its neighbors. Whether you're a student of international relations or a curious enthusiast, this quiz and detailed article will deepen your understanding of India's diplomacy and external affairs.

Test Your Knowledge: India’s Foreign Policy GK Quiz

1. Who was the first Foreign Minister of independent India?

• A. Jawaharlal Nehru
• B. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
• C. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
• D. Abul Kalam Azad

2. The Panchsheel agreement, a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy, was signed with which country?

• A. Pakistan
• B. Russia
• C. China
• D. United States

3. The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was founded at the Belgrade Conference in 1961. Which Indian Prime Minister was a key founder?

• A. Indira Gandhi
• B. Jawaharlal Nehru
• C. Lal Bahadur Shastri
• D. Morarji Desai

4. Which of the following is not a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)?

• A. India
• B. France
• C. China
• D. Russia

5. India's 'Look East Policy' was launched in 1991. It was later upgraded to what in 2014?

• A. Act East-Plus Policy
• B. Renewed East Policy
• C. Connect East Policy
• D. Act East Policy

6. The 'Gujral Doctrine' is a set of five principles guiding India’s foreign relations, particularly with its immediate neighbours. Who formulated it?

• A. P.V. Narasimha Rao
• B. Atal Bihari Vajpayee
• C. I.K. Gujral
• D. Manmohan Singh

7. India is a member of which major regional economic and security organization that includes China and Russia?

• A. ASEAN
• B. SAARC
• C. European Union
• D. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)

8. Which international body did India join in 2017 to strengthen its nuclear trade and non-proliferation credentials?

• A. Wassenaar Arrangement
• B. Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG)
• C. Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)
• D. Australia Group

9. The 'Shimla Agreement' between India and Pakistan was signed in 1972 by which two leaders?

• A. Jawaharlal Nehru and Liaquat Ali Khan
• B. Indira Gandhi and Zulfikar Ali Bhutto
• C. Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Pervez Musharraf
• D. Rajiv Gandhi and Benazir Bhutto

10. 'Operation Cactus' was an Indian military intervention in which country to thwart a coup attempt?

• A. Sri Lanka
• B. Bangladesh
• C. Nepal
• D. Maldives

Understanding India's Diplomacy: Core Principles and Key Alliances

11. The ‘Look West Policy’ primarily focuses on improving relations with which region?

• A. Latin America
• B. Sub-Saharan Africa
• C. West Asia (Middle East)
• D. Central Asia

12. India's recent strategic partnership with Israel has been referred to as a key part of which diplomatic approach?

• A. Multi-alignment
• B. Non-alignment
• C. Collective security
• D. Bilateralism

13. The Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance of 1971 was signed between India and which country?

• A. United States
• B. Soviet Union
• C. France
• D. Japan

14. What is the full form of SAARC?

• A. South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
• B. South American Alliance for Regional Cooperation
• C. South Asian Alliance for Regional Community
• D. South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation

15. Which of the following is the headquarters of the SAARC Secretariat?

• A. Kathmandu, Nepal
• B. Dhaka, Bangladesh
• C. New Delhi, India
• D. Colombo, Sri Lanka

16. India's 'Neighbourhood First Policy' was introduced by which Prime Minister?

• A. Manmohan Singh
• B. Atal Bihari Vajpayee
• C. Narendra Modi
• D. Jawaharlal Nehru

17. The 'Dhaka Declaration' signed in 1985 led to the formation of which organization?

• A. ASEAN
• B. BIMSTEC
• C. SCO
• D. SAARC

18. India's civilian nuclear deal of 2008 was signed with which country?

• A. Russia
• B. United States
• C. France
• D. United Kingdom

19. The 'Doctrine of Non-alignment' was a reaction to the bipolar world order dominated by which two powers?

• A. USA and USSR
• B. UK and France
• C. USA and China
• D. USSR and China

20. Which Indian Prime Minister initiated the 'Connect Central Asia Policy'?

• A. P.V. Narasimha Rao
• B. I.K. Gujral
• C. Manmohan Singh
• D. Narendra Modi

India’s External Affairs and Global Role: Recent Trends

21. The 'Quad' (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) consists of which four countries?

• A. India, China, Japan, Australia
• B. India, USA, Russia, Japan
• C. India, USA, UK, Australia
• D. India, USA, Japan, Australia

22. India’s Act East Policy is a key aspect of its strategy towards which region?

• A. Middle East and North Africa
• B. Southeast Asia and East Asia
• C. Central Asia and Russia
• D. South America

23. The 'Wassenaar Arrangement' deals with the control of which of the following?

• A. Conventional arms and dual-use goods and technologies
• B. Chemical weapons
• C. Nuclear materials
• D. Missile technology

24. Which of these is a founding member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)?

• A. India
• B. Pakistan
• C. China
• D. Iran

25. The Chabahar Port, developed by India, is located in which country?

• A. Pakistan
• B. Afghanistan
• C. Iraq
• D. Iran

26. India is not a member of which of the following?

• A. NATO
• B. G20
• C. BRICS
• D. G77

27. The concept of 'strategic autonomy' in India's foreign policy signifies what?

• A. Aligning with a single superpower
• B. Maintaining independence in foreign policy decisions
• C. Economic self-sufficiency
• D. Military non-interference

28. The International Solar Alliance (ISA) was co-founded by India and which other country?

• A. USA
• B. China
• C. France
• D. Germany

29. What is the purpose of India's 'Vaccine Maitri' initiative?

• A. To provide COVID-19 vaccines to friendly nations
• B. To promote vaccine manufacturing in India
• C. To create a global alliance against epidemics
• D. To import vaccines from other countries

30. The 'Look North Policy' is aimed at strengthening ties with which region?

• A. Central Asia
• B. North Africa
• C. Europe
• D. Himalayan and Northeast Asian nations

India’s Role in Global Governance and Bilateral Relations

31. The 'Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project' connects India to which neighboring country?

• A. Myanmar
• B. Bangladesh
• C. Nepal
• D. Bhutan

32. The 'BIMSTEC' organization includes countries from which two major regions?

• A. South Asia and Central Asia
• B. Southeast Asia and East Asia
• C. South Asia and Southeast Asia
• D. South Asia and West Asia

33. The 'Line of Actual Control' (LAC) is a border demarcation between India and which country?

• A. Pakistan
• B. China
• C. Nepal
• D. Bhutan

34. India's 'Neighbourhood First Policy' prioritizes strengthening relationships with:

• A. ASEAN countries
• B. Middle Eastern countries
• C. G20 members
• D. Immediate neighboring countries

35. The 'G-4' group, which seeks permanent seats on the UNSC, includes India and which other three countries?

• A. Germany, Japan, Brazil
• B. Germany, Italy, Japan
• C. Brazil, South Africa, Japan
• D. France, Germany, Japan

36. The 'Indus Waters Treaty' is a water-sharing agreement signed between India and which country?

• A. China
• B. Pakistan
• C. Nepal
• D. Bangladesh

37. What is the primary objective of India's 'SAGAR' (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative?

• A. To enhance land-based security
• B. To promote economic partnerships with Africa
• C. To strengthen maritime security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region
• D. To build strategic ports globally

38. The 'SCO' (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation) was originally founded as the 'Shanghai Five' and included which of the following countries?

• A. China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan
• B. China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan
• C. China, Russia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan
• D. China, Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan

39. Which of these is a key principle of the 'Gujral Doctrine'?

• A. Reciprocity in relations with smaller neighbours
• B. Non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations
• C. Military alliances
• D. Non-reciprocity towards smaller neighbours

40. The 'Act East Policy' has a strong focus on enhancing connectivity through which mode of transport?

• A. Air
• B. Land and sea
• C. Rail
• D. Digital

Key Figures and Policies Shaping Indian External Affairs

41. India’s first nuclear test in 1974 was codenamed what?

• A. Smiling Buddha
• B. Shakti
• C. Operation Vijay
• D. Trident

42. The 'Look West Policy' aims to improve relations with countries in which region, apart from West Asia?

• A. North America
• B. Eastern Europe
• C. North Africa
• D. South America

43. India's membership in the 'Quad' is often seen as a counter-balance to which country's growing influence?

• A. Russia
• B. China
• C. Pakistan
• D. United States

44. The 'India-Central Asia Dialogue' framework was initiated in which year?

• A. 2005
• B. 2010
• C. 2015
• D. 2019

45. The 'Asia-Africa Growth Corridor' (AAGC) is a joint initiative of India and which other country?

• A. Japan
• B. China
• C. United States
• D. Russia

46. Which Indian External Affairs Minister is credited with articulating the concept of 'multi-alignment'?

• A. I.K. Gujral
• B. Yashwant Sinha
• C. S. Jaishankar
• D. Sushma Swaraj

47. India's 'Neighbourhood First Policy' is closely linked to its economic and strategic interests in which region?

• A. Indian Ocean
• B. South Asia
• C. Middle East
• D. East Asia

48. The 'Indus Waters Treaty' was brokered by which international organization?

• A. The World Bank
• B. The United Nations
• C. The International Monetary Fund
• D. The Asian Development Bank

49. What is the primary focus of the 'Act East Policy' beyond economic cooperation?

• A. Military alliances
• B. Political isolation
• C. Cultural homogenization
• D. Strategic and security partnerships

50. 'Connect Central Asia Policy' aims to improve connectivity with the region through which major transportation route?

• A. Trans-Siberian Railway
• B. Indian Ocean shipping lanes
• C. International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC)
• D. The Suez Canal

This comprehensive quiz on India's foreign policy has provided a deep dive into the nation’s diplomatic history, key strategies, and its role in the global arena. The questions, ranging from historical milestones like the Panchsheel agreement to modern policies such as the 'Act East Policy,' highlight the evolution of India's external affairs. By engaging with these GK questions, you've not only tested your knowledge but also gained a better understanding of the complex principles, from non-alignment to multi-alignment, that guide India’s international relations. This quiz serves as an essential tool for anyone preparing for competitive exams or simply looking to stay informed about India's growing influence and strategic partnerships worldwide.

The Evolving Landscape of India's Foreign Policy

India’s foreign policy is a reflection of its civilizational ethos, strategic compulsions, and economic aspirations. It's a journey from the idealism of non-alignment to the pragmatism of multi-alignment. After gaining independence, the initial foreign policy, largely shaped by Jawaharlal Nehru, was based on the principles of non-alignment and peaceful coexistence. This was a response to the bipolar world order dominated by the United States and the Soviet Union. The goal was to maintain strategic autonomy and prevent India from being drawn into Cold War politics. The Panchsheel agreement with China in 1954 was a key manifestation of this approach, emphasizing mutual respect and non-interference.

The 1962 Sino-Indian War was a turning point, shattering the early idealism and forcing a more realistic assessment of India's security needs. This led to a closer relationship with the Soviet Union, culminating in the 1971 Treaty of Friendship. Despite this, India never fully abandoned its core principle of strategic independence, a tradition that has continued to define its approach. The post-Cold War era brought a new set of challenges and opportunities. Economic liberalization in 1991 prompted a shift from a socialist-oriented economy to a market-based one, directly influencing foreign policy objectives. This period saw the launch of the 'Look East Policy,' aimed at deepening economic and strategic ties with Southeast and East Asian nations to counter China's growing regional influence and integrate India with the dynamic Asian economies.

Key Pillars of Modern Indian Diplomacy

Neighbourhood First Policy

This policy, a central tenet of the current administration, prioritizes strengthening relationships with immediate neighbours. It emphasizes cooperation and connectivity, from trade and energy to infrastructure projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project. The goal is to build a peaceful and prosperous South Asia, reducing external influences and enhancing India's regional leadership.

Act East Policy

An evolution of the 'Look East Policy,' this strategy is more ambitious and comprehensive. It focuses not just on economic ties but also on strategic and security partnerships with ASEAN and other countries in the Asia-Pacific region. This includes joint military exercises, maritime security cooperation, and enhanced connectivity through projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway.

Strategic Autonomy

While engaging with various global powers, India has firmly maintained its right to make independent foreign policy choices. This is evident in its simultaneous partnerships with countries like the United States, Russia, and the members of the 'Quad,' without committing to any formal military alliance. This approach, often called 'multi-alignment,' allows India to pursue its national interests across different geopolitical blocs.

“India’s foreign policy must serve its domestic transformation. Our diplomacy is not about a single axis or a single issue; it is a complex web of relationships and interests that we are constantly managing.” - S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister

Did you know? India is a founding member of both the G20 and BRICS, reflecting its significant economic and political weight as an emerging power in the global governance framework.

India’s Role in Global Governance and International Relations

India’s diplomatic efforts extend far beyond its immediate neighborhood. The country is a strong advocate for a multipolar world order and a reformed United Nations Security Council (UNSC) where it seeks a permanent seat. Through groups like the G4 (India, Germany, Japan, Brazil), it actively campaigns for a more equitable and representative global governance structure. India’s soft power, including its rich cultural heritage, yoga, and spirituality, also plays a crucial role in its international relations, fostering goodwill and cultural exchanges.

Challenge ahead: Balancing relations with both the United States and Russia, particularly in the context of global conflicts and sanctions, remains a significant challenge for Indian diplomacy, testing its principle of strategic autonomy.

Frequently Asked Questions on India's Foreign Policy

What is the difference between ‘Look East’ and ‘Act East’ policy?

The 'Look East Policy' (1991) was primarily an economic initiative to connect India with Southeast Asian markets. The 'Act East Policy' (2014) is a more comprehensive and strategic upgrade, encompassing not just economic but also political, security, and cultural dimensions of engagement with the entire Indo-Pacific region.

What is the significance of the BRICS grouping for India?

BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) is a grouping of major emerging economies. For India, it provides a platform to address global economic and political issues, counter the dominance of Western institutions, and promote a more inclusive and multipolar world order. It also enhances India's influence in global financial governance through institutions like the New Development Bank.

How does India approach its relationship with China?

India's relationship with China is complex, characterized by both cooperation and competition. While they cooperate in forums like BRICS and SCO, there are significant border disputes and strategic rivalry. India's strategy is to maintain dialogue and de-escalate tensions while simultaneously strengthening its military capabilities and forging strategic partnerships (like the Quad) to balance China's growing influence.

Key Takeaways

• Evolution of Policy: India's foreign policy has transitioned from the idealistic non-alignment of the Nehruvian era to a more pragmatic and strategic multi-alignment.
• Neighbourhood Focus: The 'Neighbourhood First' policy underscores India's commitment to building strong, cooperative ties with its immediate neighbors.
• Eastern Push: The 'Act East Policy' is a cornerstone of India's engagement with the dynamic economies and strategic partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Global Ambition: India's active participation in forums like the G20, BRICS, and its push for UNSC reform reflects its aspirations to be a leading global power.
• Strategic Autonomy: The core principle of India's diplomacy remains its ability to independently chart its course, balancing various global relationships to serve its national interests.

Conclusion

India’s foreign policy is a carefully calibrated exercise in balancing multiple interests and relationships in a rapidly changing world. It is driven by the twin goals of securing India's national interests and contributing to a stable, multipolar global order. From its historical roots in non-alignment to its contemporary embrace of multi-alignment and strategic autonomy, India’s diplomatic journey is a testament to its resilience and adaptability. As India’s economic and strategic power continues to grow, so too will its influence on the global stage, making its foreign relations a critical subject of study and understanding for years to come.