The second chapter of NCERT Class 12 Political Science Part 1, titled Contemporary Centres of Power, focuses on how world politics changed after the Cold War. When the USSR collapsed and the USA became the only superpower, many believed the world would remain unipolar. But in reality, several new centres of power started growing – economically, politically, and even militarily. This chapter explains how the European Union, China, ASEAN, and other regional powers have challenged US dominance over time.

I wanted to write about this chapter because it helps us understand who holds power in today’s global order. Students often hear terms like “multipolar world,” “soft power,” or “regional influence” in the news or competitive exams, but very few know the background behind these ideas. This chapter gives a clear explanation of how other countries and regional groupings have emerged to balance out US power. It is a very relevant topic for those preparing for boards, UPSC, or even just trying to follow international news with more clarity.

Understanding the Shift from Unipolar to Multipolar World

After the Cold War ended in 1991, the USA became the world’s only superpower. But by the early 2000s, this started changing. Many countries or regions grew strong enough to challenge US dominance in different areas like trade, technology, military, and diplomacy.

The chapter focuses on the following major centres of power:

1. European Union (EU)

• A group of 27 European countries.
• It has its own currency (Euro), common foreign policy in many areas, and joint economic planning.
• The EU is a major economic power, often competing with the US in global trade.
• It has soft power through its support for democracy, human rights, and development aid.

2. China

• The chapter calls China an “economic powerhouse.”
• Since the 1980s, China adopted market-friendly reforms under Deng Xiaoping and became the world’s manufacturing hub.
• China is also growing militarily and politically. It is a permanent member of the UN Security Council.
• It is known for its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) that increases its global influence.

3. Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

• A regional organisation of 10 Southeast Asian countries.
• ASEAN promotes economic growth, cultural exchange, and regional stability.
• While it avoids military alliances, it plays an important diplomatic role in the Asia-Pacific.

4. India as an Emerging Power

• Though not listed as a global centre of power in the same way as the EU or China, India is recognised for its growing economic and strategic importance.
• It has a large market, a strong IT sector, and a rising voice in global forums like G20, BRICS, and SCO.
• India balances relations between the US, Russia, and other major powers.

5. Other Influential Groupings

• G20: A group of 20 major economies that influence global financial and trade policies.
• BRICS: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – a bloc that seeks a multipolar global order.
• African Union (AU): An emerging political and economic union representing Africa’s collective voice.

Download PDF: NCERT Class 12 Political Science Part 1 Chapter 2 – Contemporary Centres of Power

If you want to read the full official chapter, you can download the NCERT PDF directly from this website”

NCERT Class 12 Political Science Part 1 Chapter 2 – Contemporary Centres of Power