Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India and Sri Lanka share a long-standing relationship rooted in geographical proximity, cultural ties, and historical interactions dating back to the Ramayana era. Often described as an ‘age-old friend’, Sri Lanka holds significant strategic importance for India, particularly in the context of maritime security in the Indian Ocean region. The recent unprecedented economic crisis in Sri Lanka, beginning in 2022, presented a complex challenge, prompting substantial Indian involvement. This involvement, while framed as assistance to a friend in need, also reflects India’s own strategic and economic interests, necessitating a careful examination of its role.
Historical Context of India-Sri Lanka Relations
The relationship has been marked by periods of cooperation and conflict. The Indo-Sri Lanka Accord of 1987, aimed at resolving the ethnic conflict, demonstrates India’s past intervention. However, the involvement of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) also led to complexities and strained relations. Post-conflict, India has been a major trading partner and investor in Sri Lanka, fostering economic ties. The close cultural links, including the presence of Tamil populations in both countries, further define the relationship.
India’s Response to the 2022 Economic Crisis
Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, triggered by unsustainable debt, mismanagement, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, led to widespread protests and political instability. India responded with a multi-pronged approach:
- Financial Assistance: India provided over $4 billion in assistance, including lines of credit for essential goods like fuel, food, and medicine. This was crucial in preventing a complete collapse of the Sri Lankan economy. (Source: Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, as of knowledge cutoff 2023)
- Humanitarian Aid: India supplied essential medicines, food items, and other humanitarian assistance to alleviate the suffering of the Sri Lankan people.
- Diplomatic Engagement: India actively engaged with the Sri Lankan government and international institutions like the IMF to facilitate a bailout package. India urged Sri Lanka to seek IMF assistance and supported its negotiations.
- Debt Restructuring: India participated in discussions regarding Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring, offering to extend repayment terms.
Analyzing India’s Role in Light of the ‘Age-Old Friend’ Statement
While India’s assistance was substantial and timely, its actions were also guided by strategic considerations:
- Preventing a Regional Crisis: A complete economic collapse in Sri Lanka could have led to a refugee crisis and instability in the region, impacting India’s security interests.
- Countering China’s Influence: China has been increasing its economic and strategic presence in Sri Lanka, particularly through infrastructure projects. India’s assistance aimed to counter China’s growing influence.
- Protecting Indian Investments: India has significant investments in Sri Lanka, and a stable Sri Lanka is crucial for protecting these investments.
However, it’s important to note that India’s assistance wasn’t without its critics. Some Sri Lankans perceived India’s involvement as intrusive and aimed at furthering its own interests. The speed and conditions attached to some of the loans also raised concerns. The assistance, while substantial, was also viewed by some as insufficient given the scale of the crisis.
Comparison with other Actors
| Actor | Type of Assistance | Strategic Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| China | Loans, Infrastructure Projects | Expanding influence in the Indian Ocean, securing strategic ports. |
| IMF | Bailout Package, Structural Adjustment | Global financial stability, promoting economic reforms. |
| Japan | Financial Assistance, Debt Restructuring | Maintaining regional stability, promoting economic cooperation. |
Conclusion
India’s response to the Sri Lankan crisis demonstrates a complex interplay of genuine friendship and strategic self-interest. While India undoubtedly provided crucial assistance to alleviate the suffering of the Sri Lankan people and prevent a regional crisis, its actions were also shaped by its own security and economic concerns. The ‘age-old friend’ label necessitates a continued commitment to Sri Lanka’s stability and prosperity, but this must be balanced with respect for Sri Lanka’s sovereignty and a sensitivity to its internal dynamics. Future engagement should focus on sustainable economic development and long-term stability, rather than short-term crisis management.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.