📋 Written Ability Test (WAT)/Essay Analysis Guide: Should India Focus More on Building Strategic Alliances with ASEAN Countries?
🌐 Understanding the Topic’s Importance
This topic connects to India’s Act East Policy, Indo-Pacific strategy, and economic ambitions. For B-school students, it underscores the nexus of international relations, trade policies, and strategic alliances.
📝 Effective Planning and Writing
- ⏳ Time Allocation:
- Planning: 5 minutes
- Writing: 20 minutes
- Review: 5 minutes
- 📖 Structure:
- Introduction: 50–70 words
- Body: 300–350 words
- Conclusion: 50–70 words
💡 Introduction Techniques for Essays
- Contrast Approach: “While India’s trade with ASEAN reached $96 billion in 2023, its exclusion from RCEP raises questions about its commitment to regional integration.”
- Timeline Approach: “Since the 1992 dialogue partnership, India-ASEAN relations have evolved into a Strategic Partnership. However, to capitalize on this, India must overcome infrastructure and trade barriers.”
🧩 Structuring the Essay Body
- 🏅 Achievements: Highlight trade growth, security cooperation, and cultural ties.
- ⚠️ Challenges with Comparative Analysis: Discuss trade deficits and China’s influence.
- 🌍 Future Outlook: Focus on opportunities in digital trade, energy, and maritime security.
🖋️ Concluding Effectively
- ⚖️ Balanced Perspective: “While ASEAN is vital to India’s strategic and economic goals, success depends on addressing trade imbalances and enhancing connectivity.”
- 🌟 Future-Focused Approach: “A stronger ASEAN partnership is key to India’s Indo-Pacific strategy, with mutual benefits in trade, security, and sustainable development.”
✨ Recommendations for Sustainable Progress
- 🚧 Boost infrastructure through the Northeast.
- 🔋 Expand digital and energy partnerships.
- 🤝 Strengthen multilateral cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
📄 Sample Short Essays
- Balanced Perspective: “ASEAN is central to India’s Indo-Pacific strategy. To unlock its potential, India must address trade gaps, bolster connectivity, and counterbalance China’s influence.”
- Solution-Oriented: “Strategic alliances with ASEAN can redefine regional diplomacy. Prioritizing infrastructure, trade diversification, and cultural exchanges will strengthen India’s position.”
- Global Comparison: “ASEAN’s significance mirrors the EU for Europe. India must emulate best practices in trade and connectivity to enhance its ASEAN partnerships.”