Wars and Peace with Pakistan
The Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan began after Partition over a dispute over Kashmir. A proxy war broke out in 1947, but it did not escalate into a full war. The issue was referred to the UN, and Pakistan became a significant factor in India’s relations with the US and China. Despite the conflict, cooperation between the two governments was maintained, including the restoration of women abducted during Partition. The India-Pakistan Indus Waters Treaty was signed in 1960, which has been effective. In 1965, armed conflict escalated, leading to the signing of the Tashkent Agreement.
Bangladesh War, 1971
In 1970, Pakistan faced its largest internal crisis, with Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s party winning West Pakistan and the Awami League sweeping through East Pakistan. The Bengali population protested against being treated as second-class citizens by West Pakistani rulers. In 1971, the Pakistani army arrested Sheikh Mujib-ur Rahman, leading to a revolt in East Pakistan. India supported the freedom struggle in Bangladesh, accusing Pakistan of a conspiracy.
Support for Pakistan came from the US and China, leading to a realignment of forces in Asia. India signed a 20-year Treaty of Peace and Friendship with the Soviet Union in 1971 to counter the US-Pakistan-China axis. A full-scale war broke out in December 1971, with Pakistan attacking Punjab and Rajasthan and India retaliating with an attack on the Jammu and Kashmir front. The Indian army made rapid progress in East Pakistan, resulting in a unilateral ceasefire. The signing of the Shimla Agreement in 1972 formalized the return of peace.
India’s External Relations| Class 12 Political Science
Class 12 Political Science Notes Chapter 4 India’s External Relations: India’s external relations are a complex and ever-evolving topic. In this chapter, we will explore the history, principles, and challenges of India’s foreign policy. We will also examine India’s relationship with its key partners, including the United States, China, and Russia. India’s foreign policy is guided by the principles of non-alignment, peaceful coexistence, and respect for international law. These principles were laid down by Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, and have remained the cornerstone of India’s foreign policy ever since.
It is an important topic in Political Science Class 12. Students can go through this article to get comprehensive notes on the topic ‘India’s External Relations’.
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