International Relations (IR) is an important topic in UPSC Prelims, Mains (GS Paper II), and Interview. It requires a mix of static knowledge (India’s foreign policy, global organizations, treaties, etc.) and current affairs (ongoing geopolitical issues, agreements, conflicts, etc.).
A well-structured strategy will help you prepare efficiently. Let’s go step by step.
1. Understanding the Syllabus
A. Topics Covered Under IR in UPSC
IR questions in Prelims and Mains GS Paper II come from the following areas:
(i) India’s Bilateral Relations
- India’s relations with neighboring countries (China, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar).
- India’s relations with major powers (USA, Russia, EU, Japan, Australia, etc.).
- India’s involvement in major international conflicts (Russia-Ukraine war, Israel-Palestine issue, Indo-Pacific strategy, etc.).
- Important agreements and treaties affecting India’s global standing.
(ii) India’s Role in Global Organizations
- United Nations (UN) and its agencies (WHO, UNESCO, UNSC, etc.).
- World Trade Organization (WTO) and its impact on India.
- International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank – their influence on India.
- Regional groupings – SAARC, BRICS, G20, QUAD, SCO, ASEAN, etc.
- India’s role in climate change agreements (Paris Agreement, COP summits, etc.).
(iii) India’s Foreign Policy Framework
- Principles of India’s foreign policy (Non-Alignment, Panchsheel, Strategic Autonomy, etc.).
- Act East Policy, Neighbourhood First Policy, Indo-Pacific Strategy, Look West Policy.
- India’s Soft Power Diplomacy (Yoga, Ayurveda, Bollywood, etc.).
Understanding these topics will help in both static and dynamic parts of IR.
2. Books and Study Material
A combination of NCERTs, standard books, government reports, and newspapers is required for IR preparation.
A. NCERT Books (Basic Foundation)
- Class 12 Political Science NCERT (Contemporary World Politics) – Covers basic concepts of world politics.
- Class 12 Political Science NCERT (Politics in India Since Independence) – Helps in understanding India’s foreign policy post-independence.
B. Standard Books for IR
- India’s Foreign Policy – Rajiv Sikri (Best book for understanding India’s foreign policy strategies).
- Challenges to India’s Foreign Policy – Shyam Saran (Gives insights into contemporary challenges).
C. Newspapers and Current Affairs Sources
- The Hindu / Indian Express (Editorials and Explained Section) – For daily updates on global issues.
- Rajya Sabha TV (India’s World, The Big Picture) – For expert opinions on IR topics.
- Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) website – For official press releases on India’s foreign relations.
- IDSA (Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses) reports – For research-based insights on global security and diplomacy.
D. Government Reports and Summits
- Annual Reports of MEA – To understand government policies on international affairs.
- UN, WTO, and G20 Summit Reports – To stay updated on India’s role in these organizations.
Using a mix of books and dynamic sources ensures comprehensive preparation.
3. Strategy to Cover IR for UPSC
(A) Build a Strong Foundation (Static Part)
- Start with NCERTs and Rajiv Sikri’s book to understand the basics of India’s foreign policy.
- Make short notes on topics like Panchsheel, Non-Alignment Movement (NAM), Look East/Act East Policy.
- Learn about India’s role in global institutions like the UN, WTO, BRICS, QUAD, etc.
(B) Stay Updated with Current Affairs (Dynamic Part)
- Read The Hindu/Indian Express editorial daily and make notes on India’s foreign relations.
- Follow MEA press releases and international news.
- Watch Rajya Sabha TV debates (India’s World) to understand different perspectives on global issues.
(C) Answer Writing Practice
- Analyze Previous Year Questions (PYQs) from GS Paper II (Mains).
- Write structured answers using the Introduction-Body-Conclusion (IBC) format.
- Include case studies, recent events, and government policies in answers.
(D) Use Maps for Better Understanding
- Study India’s border areas, trade routes, and strategic locations.
- Draw simple maps in answers to enhance presentation.
(E) Focus on India’s Relations with Key Countries
| Country/Region | Key Issues & Relations |
|---|---|
| India-China | Border disputes (LAC, Doklam), Trade, QUAD, BRI issues |
| India-Pakistan | Kashmir issue, Terrorism, Indus Water Treaty, SAARC |
| India-USA | Trade, Defense deals (BECA, LEMOA), QUAD, Indo-Pacific |
| India-Russia | Defense (S-400), Nuclear Energy, BRICS, SCO |
| India-EU | Trade, Climate Change, Strategic Partnership |
| India-Africa | Trade, Development aid, Energy security |
| India-West Asia | Oil trade, Iran-India ties, Israel-Palestine issue |
Regularly updating India’s bilateral relations with current affairs is crucial.
4. Key Tips for IR Preparation
✅ Revise regularly using short notes on foreign policies.
✅ Link current affairs with static topics to give a well-rounded answer.
✅ Practice answer writing and include maps/diagrams for clarity.
✅ Follow government sources (MEA, PIB, IDSA) for authentic information.
✅ Analyze India’s diplomatic stance in major global issues.
Final Advice
IR preparation should be a mix of static knowledge and current affairs. Regular revisions, daily newspaper reading, and answer writing will help you master this topic.
