India's Defence Minister Signs MoUs, Inaugurates Bridges in Sri Lanka
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· India's bilateral relations· Prelims·
Infrastructure diplomacy and defence cooperation: a key GS2 theme for India's Neighbourhood First policy.
Why in news
India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo to sign MoUs on defence cooperation and inaugurate infrastructure projects.
Background
The meeting involved the signing of MoUs for the upgradation of L70 Guns and academic cooperation between National Defence Colleges. Singh also inaugurated three Bailey Bridges in Sri Lanka to support regional development.
Facts for Prelims
- PostRajnath Singh: India's Defence Minister
- PostAnura Kumara Dissanayake: President of Sri Lanka
- FactMoUs signed for upgradation of L70 Guns
- FactMoUs signed for academic cooperation between National Defence Colleges
- FactInauguration of three Bailey Bridges in Sri Lanka
Prelims practice question
With reference to the recent India-Sri Lanka defence and infrastructure cooperation, consider the following statements:
- MoUs were signed for the upgradation of L70 Guns.
- India inaugurated five Bailey Bridges in Sri Lanka.
- The MoUs include academic cooperation between National Defence Colleges.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only — Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: The note states three Bailey Bridges were inaugurated.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy in enhancing regional security and infrastructure connectivity in South Asia.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Strategic depth: Strengthening bilateral defence ties to counter regional maritime and terrestrial security threats
- Infrastructure diplomacy: Using bridge construction as a tool for soft power and regional connectivity
- Institutional synergy: Enhancing military readiness through academic cooperation between National Defence Colleges
Keywords: Neighbourhood First · Strategic Autonomy · Infrastructure Diplomacy · Bilateral Cooperation · Regional Security
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.