2015 · GS Paper 2 · Q17 · 12 marks
Increasing interest of India in Africa has its pros and cons. Critically examine.
In short
India's growing Africa engagement brings energy diversification, markets, diplomatic votes and Indian Ocean reach, but faces delivery delays, an extraction image, debt risk and racism at home. The 2015 India-Africa Forum Summit drew all 54 African states and pledged US$ 10 billion in concessional credit.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 292 words
Energy Security
Nigerian and Angolan crude and ONGC Videsh's stake in Mozambique's Rovuma gas reduce dependence on the Gulf.
Markets and Influence
Bilateral trade reached US$ 81.99 billion in 2024-25 (MEA), Indian generics serve African health systems, and India's push won the African Union G20 membership in 2023.
Maritime and Soft Power
The Agalega airstrip in Mauritius, Gulf of Aden anti-piracy patrols since 2008, ITEC training and Indian peacekeepers in Congo and South Sudan extend India's presence and goodwill.
Delivery Deficit
RIS (2025) counts 189 projects across 41 countries on over US$ 12 billion of credit lines, but slow execution hurts credibility.
Extraction Image
The failed Karuturi farmland lease in Ethiopia's Gambella invited a "land grab" charge.
Risk and Racism
Debt distress or high debt risk in 21 African states (African Union, 2025) and attacks on African students in Greater Noida (2017) erode the partnership.
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Bilateral7 questions
Asked in 6 of 14 sittings since 2013
- 2025India-Africa digital partnership is achieving mutual respect, co-development and long-term institutional partnerships. Elaborate.
- 2021"If the last few decades were of Asia's growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa's." In the light of this statement, examine India's influence in Africa in recent years.
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2015 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.