Negotiating India's Landmark Agreements

by Avtar Singh Bhasin

Negotiating India’s Landmark Agreements is a rigorous examination of the historical significance and diplomatic intricacies of five pivotal agreements signed by India since Independence. It walks readers through the India–China Agreement on Tibet (1954), the Indo–Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation (1971), the Simla Agreement (1972), the India–Sri Lanka Accord (1987), and the India–United States Civil Nuclear Energy Agreement (2008).

By dissecting the prevailing political, economic, and social dimensions that underpinned these accords, it provides readers a profound understanding of the long-term impact of these crucial negotiations and documents often ignored in other histories. Through meticulous research and in-depth analysis, author AS Bhasin narrates the gripping story of how these treaties shaped India's international relations and contributed to the broader contours of global diplomacy. His book not only illuminates India's evolving role on the world stage but also offers a novel perspective on the complexities of international affairs and statecraft.

Negotiating India’s Landmark Agreements is an indispensable guide to deciphering the strategic decisions that have defined Indian foreign policy, while also serving as a valuable resource for academics, researchers, and practitioners in the field of international relations. It is a critical addition to the study of diplomacy, offering insights that are both compelling and essential for a deeper comprehension of global affairs.

479 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 30, 2024

Reviews

[Khushi Mishra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Negotiating India's Landmark Agreements is one gem of a book for anybody who is interested in geopolitics, diplomacy and international affairs. The book is so well written that I did not get fatigued (as one might while reading a non-fiction) after reading it but only more curious. Everything is narrated in the form of a story which grasped my attention throughout. My favourite chapter in the book was about the Sino-Indian Treaty or the Panchsheel agreement. Not only has the timeline of events been described perfectly, but also the dilemmas and conundrums faced by all bureaucrats and politicians during such important talks with other countries.

We further read about the role of the Soviet Union in extending its support to India during a time when it was tussled between Pakistan (and its support from the West as well as China). The commentary made while explaining every dialogue plays an essential role in not only educating the reader but also providing them a critical perspective, directing them to form informed opinions about these negotiations. We see how India lagged behind in its rational approach while engaging with China soon after the Independence on the Tibetan issue. Nehru was attached way more sentimentally to our Chinese neighbour than they were to us. This can be seen in contrast with the decision made by Prime Minister Singh when he joined hands with US for the nuclear agreement, in 2008. Such events shed light on how political leaders and their ideologies can affect foreign relations of the country.

Our history with Pakistan was definitely not untouched. Mr Bhasin elaborates greatly upon the conflicts between East and West Pakistan, the role played by India in what was said to be an "internal affair" and the subsequent intervention by Prime Minister Gandhi, which led to the formation of Bangladesh. He also provides dimensions to this landmark development in India-Pakistan history by elucidating upon the role played by the West and the Soviet in being a catalyst to the demands of Pakistan and India, respectively.

The chapter on Sri Lanka was equally well-furnished with facts and data but it found me less intrigued than during the rest of the book but I credit that to my lack of interest. All in all, this book was one of the very few political non-fictions which kept me engaged till the very end. The epilogue condenses the book precisely. I truly felt that I learnt a part of Indian geopolitics which I won't forget for years now.

[Ambica Gulati · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book, Negotiating India’s Landmark Agreements,he has highlighted five outstanding agreements, based on their impact (beneficial or baneful). These are:  India–China Agreement on Tibet (1954), the Indo–Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation (1971), the Simla Agreement (1972), the India–Sri Lanka Accord (1987), and the India–United States Civil Nuclear Energy Agreement (2008).

He has painstakingly dissected each agreement with its pros and cons. The book is a slow read for a layperson, going deep into the complex process of drafting policies, handling foreign affairs and creating a peaceful and progressive environment for the country and the region.

The book serves many purposes. It is a guide for students of politics and international relations. It is a vital lesson in history for the common man.

[Sanjay Banerjee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Based upon research of archival and declassified records and previously published books, this book provides the historical context, background and the dynamics of the negotiations for the following accords/agreements that Govt of India signed after independence :
- The India-China Agreement on Tibet, 1954
- Indo-Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship & Co-operation, 1971
- The Simla Agreement, 1972
- India-Sri Lanka Accord, 1987
- India-United States Civil Nuclear Energy Agreement, 2008

The book also tries to draw important lessons for practitioners of state-craft and diplomacy from the above agreements.

[Tanisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Diplomacy is the bodacious backbone of every country. How narratives and let’s say : “Diplomatic Desires” are converted from rhetoric to reality. And how it is a process of communication and negotiation between two parties in the arena of International relations. Negotiating India’s Landmark Agreements explores the known as well as underrated aspects of the following agreements : India–China Agreement on Tibet (1954), the Indo–Soviet Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation (1971), the Simla Agreement (1972), the India–Sri Lanka Accord (1987), and the India–United States Civil Nuclear Energy Agreement (2008). And how they’ve impacted the foreign policy of India.

Mr. Bhasin has highlighted the underrated aspects of the agreements. Which certainly raises questions as well as arguments. But what makes this book intriguing is the facts which he has presented. His observations are insightful, impactful and impressive. But while I was reading it I realised that when you’re the longest ruling party in a country there will be more negative opinions because the common people sees the power centre with scrutiny. But at the same time, one needs to observe these unfavorable, unpleasant aspects in order to avoid any further mistakes. That’s how this book will help you understand the dynamic game of diplomacy. And how the diplomatic blunders implemented by the Nehru and Indira government has impacted India.

In short, if you’re interested in reading about international relations then get yourself this book as soon as possible.
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