What are the different ways in which India has helped smaller countries in her neighbourhood? Explain with examples.
India has helped smaller neighbouring countries through various forms of assistance and cooperation.
In infrastructure development, India helped construct the Afghan Parliament building and the Zaranj-Delaram highway in Afghanistan, and is developing Iran's Chabahar Port to improve access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.
In disaster relief and humanitarian aid, India provided quick assistance during the 2004 tsunami, the 2014 water crisis in Malé (Maldives), and the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating its role as the region's trusted first responder.
India helped restore the Ananda temple in Bagan, Myanmar, which was damaged by earthquakes, and gifted a 16-foot replica of the Sarnath Buddha statue to the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon.
In energy cooperation, India collaborates with Bhutan on hydroelectric power projects that contribute to Bhutan's economic growth and supply renewable energy to India.
Through regional cooperation, India is a member of SAARC and the International Solar Alliance, sharing research and technology. India also provides educational and healthcare support to Afghanistan and other neighbours.
These initiatives reflect India's commitment to regional progress and its philosophy that being a good neighbour means working together for mutual benefit.
Explanation
The chapter provides multiple examples of India helping smaller neighbours: Afghanistan (page 17) — Parliament building, highway construction, education and healthcare support; Maldives (page 20) — disaster relief during 2004 tsunami, 2014 water crisis, COVID-19 pandemic; Myanmar (page 15) — restoration of Ananda temple, Buddha statue gift; Bhutan (page 12) — hydroelectric power projects; Iran (page 29) — Chabahar Port development; Regional initiatives (pages 17, 20-21) — SAARC, International Solar Alliance. The chapter emphasises that such involvement is called 'regionalism' and helps create peace, stability, and shared progress.
Solution Steps
Infrastructure development: Construction of Afghan Parliament building, Zaranj-Delaram highway in Afghanistan, and development of Iran's Chabahar Port
Disaster relief and humanitarian aid: Assistance during 2004 tsunami, 2014 Maldives water crisis, and COVID-19 pandemic
Cultural heritage support: Restoration of Ananda temple in Myanmar and gifting replica of Sarnath Buddha statue to Shwedagon Pagoda
Energy cooperation: Hydroelectric power projects with Bhutan for mutual economic and energy benefits
Regional cooperation: Membership in SAARC and International Solar Alliance for sharing research and technology
Educational and healthcare support provided to Afghanistan and other neighbouring countries