Syllabus of the Civil Services Examination clearly demarcates the boundaries of knowledge as far as the section of International Relations (IR) is concerned. In the context of the examination, the significance of international relations is mediated through India’s interaction with the world, factors that shape and influence it and the consequences. The ideal way is to understand the sources, determinants, objectives, tools, methods, hindrances, factors, actors, and developments in the context of India’s foreign policy and its relations with the world. Thus, IR in this context is better understood as India’s Relations. And these relations are subject matter of India’s foreign policy.

The lectures would broadly cover the following themes:

♤ India’s Foreign policy: Determinants, Evolution, Achievements, Challenges and key questions.

♤ Neighbors: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka Maldives, Pakistan, Afghanistan, SAARC

♤ Extended Neighborhood: South East Asia (ASEAN, Myanmar, Vietnam, Singapore); West Asia (GCC, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE); East Asia and beyond (Japan, South Korea, Australia, Pacific Ocean- Indo Pacific, FIPIC); Indian Ocean (Mauritius, IORA)

♤ Global Relations- Important Powers: China, USA, Russia, European Union, France Germany and United Kingdom

♤ Regional Relations: Africa, Latin America (Brazil/MERCOSUR).

♤ Organizations and groupings

♤ Diaspora

♤ Key Issues in IR