2019 · GS Paper 2 · Q20 · 15 marks
What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy, which would satisfy India's national self-esteem and ambitions.' Explain with suitable examples.
In short
India-US friction persists largely because Washington still treats India as a counterweight or junior partner rather than an autonomous great power. Examples include India's exclusion from the NSG, Trump's Kashmir mediation offer and ceasefire claims, and 2025 tariffs linked to Russian oil.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 308 words
Status gap
The 2008 nuclear deal accepted India's nuclear status, but India is still outside the NSG, and US support for a permanent UNSC seat (2010) has stayed rhetorical.
Pakistan hyphenation
Trump's 2019 offer to mediate on Kashmir and his claim of credit for the May 2025 ceasefire after Operation Sindoor offended India's bilateralism.
Alliance expectations
India's S-400 purchase drew the threat of CAATSA sanctions, and its Ukraine stand was read as fence-sitting, not strategic autonomy.
Trade disputes
GSP benefits ended in 2019, and in 2025 a 25% tariff plus an extra 25% for buying Russian oil hit Indian exports (ICWA).
Mobility and memory
The 2025 H-1B fee and memories of 1971, 1974 and the 1998 sanctions deepen distrust.
Partnership of equals
Treat India as a co-shaper of the Indo-Pacific under the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership (2020).
Compartmentalise disputes
Ring-fence trade, as the February 2026 trade deal began to do, and keep Pakistan and Russia in separate tracks.
Co-production
Build on the GE F414 engine deal (2023) to give India a stake in US supply chains.
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2019 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.