Contemporary south asia class 12

Simran Sahni68 minutes read

The chapter discusses the contemporary political landscape of South Asia, including democratic transitions, military rule, and conflicts between countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, highlighting the importance of international intervention and cooperation for regional stability and development efforts. Efforts are made to address misunderstandings and promote collaboration among neighboring countries in South Asia, despite ongoing conflicts and diaspora populations influencing the region's dynamics.

Insights

  • The chapter discusses the transition of various South Asian countries from different political systems, highlighting the shift towards democracy in Nepal, Bhutan, and Maldives, while noting the challenges faced by Pakistan and Bangladesh due to military rule interrupting democratic processes.
  • The text underscores the importance of regional cooperation and economic ties in South Asia, emphasizing the significance of India's relationships with neighboring countries like Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives, as well as the need for collaboration to address shared issues and promote stability in the region amidst conflicts and external influences.

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Recent questions

  • What countries are included in South Asia?

    Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, India, Nepal

  • What political systems are present in South Asia?

    Democratic governments in India and Sri Lanka

  • What was the outcome of the autonomy movement in Pakistan?

    Sheikh Mujibur Rahman arrested, atrocities committed, independence for Bangladesh

  • What was the role of India in the conflict in Sri Lanka?

    Indian Peace Keeping Forces sent in 1987, withdrawn in 1989

  • What are the key areas of cooperation between India and Maldives?

    Economic development and tourism promotion

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Summary

00:00

"Contemporary Politics in South Asia"

  • The chapter being taught is Chapter Three of Class 12 Political Science, titled Contemporary South Asia, with updated syllabus from NCERT.
  • The chapter focuses on the contemporary political scenario of South Asia, including India and its neighboring countries.
  • The region of South Asia includes countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, India, and Nepal.
  • The chapter delves into the political systems of these countries, highlighting the democratic governments in India and Sri Lanka since independence.
  • While India and Sri Lanka have maintained stable democracies, Pakistan and Bangladesh have faced political instability.
  • Nepal transitioned from a constitutional monarchy to a democracy in 2008 after a prolonged struggle.
  • Bhutan also shifted from a constitutional monarchy to a multi-party system in 2008.
  • Maldives, previously a Sultanate, became a republic in 1968, adopting a presidential form of government.
  • Maldives further established a party system in 2005, with the Democratic Party being a prominent political entity.
  • The chapter emphasizes the growing demand for democracy in the region, challenging the earlier notion that democracy might not suit the people of South Asia.

12:02

Struggles for Democracy in South Asia

  • The foundation of democracy is proven by successful fights for democracy in Yangka and other countries.
  • The political system in Pakistan was unstable, with military rulers taking control at times.
  • General Ayub Khan took power in Pakistan, establishing military rule and controlling the country's income.
  • Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka also faced political turmoil, with military rule interrupting democracy.
  • General Zia Al Haq took over in 1977, reinstating military rule after a brief period of democracy under Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.
  • General Pervez Musharraf seized power in 1999, establishing military rule once again.
  • International support for democracy in Pakistan was lacking, leading to repeated military takeovers.
  • Social dominance, conflicts with India, and lack of international support were key reasons for democracy's failure in Pakistan.
  • In Bangladesh, tensions between West and East Pakistan led to protests for autonomy and independence.
  • Sheikh Mujibur Rahman emerged as a leader in the protests, advocating for independence and autonomy from Pakistan.

24:27

Sheikh Mujibur Rahman: Autonomy to Independence in Bangladesh

  • The movement for autonomy in Pakistan was led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1970.
  • The demand for autonomy included the power to rule oneself and separate wages from Pakistan.
  • The Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won the majority of seats in the 1970 elections in Pakistan.
  • The results of the elections were rejected, leading to the arrest of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
  • The atrocities committed by the West Pakistan army led to many people fleeing to India as refugees.
  • India helped Bangladesh gain independence through a war in 1971.
  • Bangladesh became a separate nation in 1971 with a democratic constitution.
  • In 1975, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated, leading to political turmoil in Bangladesh.
  • Military rule in Bangladesh was challenged by student protests demanding democracy.
  • By 1991, Bangladesh had established a multi-party democratic system.

37:53

Indian Government's Role in Sri Lanka's Affairs

  • Mavest Kahani Na Kahani emphasizes the Indian Government's involvement in Sri Lanka's internal affairs.
  • Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948, leading to the emergence of caste-related issues.
  • The ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka primarily involved the Sinhala and Tamil populations.
  • The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTT) was formed in 1983 by Indian Tamils in Sri Lanka.
  • The Indian Peace Keeping Forces were sent to Sri Lanka in 1987 to address the conflict between LTT and the Sri Lankan government.
  • The Indian forces were withdrawn in 1989 due to opposition from the Sri Lankan people.
  • International intervention, including countries like Norway and Iceland, helped resolve the conflict between Sri Lanka and LTT in 2003.
  • Despite the civil war, Sri Lanka achieved economic growth and human development.
  • India and Pakistan have had conflicts over Kashmir, Siachen Glacier, and nuclear weapons development.
  • India and Bangladesh have disputes over river water sharing and illegal immigration, but cooperation is essential for peaceful relations.

49:57

Economics and Relations in South Asia

  • Economics plays a significant role in fostering relations and trade between countries, with a focus on Bangladesh, India, and East Policy.
  • The Look East Policy was created to enhance trade with South East Asian countries, including Bangladesh, and to manage disasters collectively.
  • In 2015, exchanges between countries involved discussions on enclaves, particularly gas enclaves, leading to the gifting of territories to promote mutual understanding.
  • The relationship between Nepal and India is characterized by ease of travel without visas, despite occasional trade disputes and concerns about China's influence.
  • Leaders and citizens in Nepal express concerns about India's interference in internal affairs, particularly regarding river water sharing and hydroelectric projects.
  • India's relationship with Sri Lanka has seen challenges, including military involvement in conflicts, leading to a policy of non-interference post-LTT conflict.
  • A free trade agreement signed with Sri Lanka aims to strengthen economic ties and facilitate the movement of goods between the two countries.
  • India's assistance in post-tsunami construction in Sri Lanka and close relations with Bhutan underscore a commitment to regional stability and cooperation.
  • The relationship with Maldives has been positive, with economic development and tourism promotion being key areas of cooperation.
  • Despite challenges with neighboring countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh, efforts are made to enhance cooperation and address misunderstandings to promote regional stability.

01:02:59

South Asia diaspora in America influences market

  • South Asia region has a significant diaspora living in America, including individuals from Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan, contributing to a large population that influences the market. Efforts are being made to maintain peace in the region, despite ongoing conflicts and unresolved issues, with a focus on collaboration to address shared problems and potentially unite as a strong entity against external influences like America and China.
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