“Despite recent strains, the India–US strategic partnership remains a cornerstone for a stable Indo-Pacific and a democratic global order.” Critically examine the statement in the context of the recent drifts in the relationship.

Answer:

The India–US strategic partnership, underpinned by shared democratic values and converging strategic interests, has evolved significantly—from Cold War-era mistrust to a robust 21st-century alliance. However, recent developments have led to friction points necessitating a recalibration of ties.

Causes of Drift in the relationship:

1. Transactional U.S. Approach: Washington’s short-term, profit-centric mindset often clashes with India’s long-term strategic vision, evident in the U.S’s role in the recent India-Pakistan crisis.
2. Strategic Divergences: India’s independent stance on the Russia–Ukraine conflict and Iran differs from U.S. expectations, showcasing a mismatch in geopolitical outlooks.
3. Visa & Immigration Issues: Tightening of H-1B visa norms and deportation of illegal immigrants has impacted India’s tech workforce, a vital pillar of bilateral engagement.
4. Nostalgia for Pakistan: A segment of the U.S. national security establishment still views Pakistan as a familiar partner, overstating its strategic utility
5. Defense Tensions: The U.S. opposition to India’s S-400 deal with Russia under CAATSA reflects competing security alignments.

Strengths and significance of the partnerships:

• Defense Cooperation: Foundational agreements like LEMOA, COMCASA, and BECA bolster military interoperability.
• Technology & Innovation: The iCET initiative (2023) fosters collaboration in AI, semiconductors, and quantum tech.
• Trade & Energy: The U.S. is India’s top export destination, and a major supplier of LNG and oil.
• Multilateral Cooperation: Quad, IPEF, and the Artemis Accord reflect shared visions for the Indo-Pacific and outer space governance.
• Climate Cooperation: Joint efforts in addressing climate change strengthen global environmental governance and sustainable development initiatives. E.g. The U.S. and India clean energy partnership.

Roadmap for Recalibration:

India’s Role:

• Prioritize quiet, calibrated diplomacy over public reactions.
• Accelerate economic reforms to attract U.S. investment.
• Engage U.S. Congress, think tanks, and diaspora to shape narratives.
• Address trade concerns by re-engaging on a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).

U.S.’s Role:

• Avoid Cold War-era strategic framings; support India’s rise as a net security provider.
• Recognize India’s regional and global aspirations beyond utility against China.
• Refrain from unilateral moral posturing; instead, support shared democratic evolution.
• Provide CAATSA waivers recognizing India’s unique security needs.

Conclusion:

While tactical irritants exist, the structural logic of the India-US partnership remains compelling. A renewed emphasis on shared values, mutual respect, and strategic congruence will be key to navigating current turbulence and shaping a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific order.

‘+1’ value addition:

• Trade Growth: Bilateral trade rose by 72% between 2017–18 and 2022–23.
• Strategic Alignment: India is part of all three pillars of the U.S.-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF).
• Defense: Over $20 billion worth of U.S. defense sales to India in the last 15 years.
• Diaspora Bridge: Over 200,000 Indian students in U.S. universities; 4 million+ strong Indian-American community.
• Here is the reframed content in clear, point-wise format:
• U.S.-India TRUST Initiative (Transforming the Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology): Aims to catalyze collaboration across government, academia, and the private sector and focuses on the application of critical and emerging technologies in sectors like defense, space, and cybersecurity.
• INDUS Innovation:  Designed to strengthen U.S.-India industrial and academic partnerships and promotes joint research and investment in emerging sectors such as space technology, clean energy, and advanced materials.
• Strategic Mineral Recovery Initiative: Focuses on the recovery and processing of critical minerals (e.g., lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements).

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/resetting-the-india-us-partnership-in-uncertain-times/article69709803.ece

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