The third chapter of NCERT Class 12 Political Science Part 1, Contemporary South Asia, helps us understand the political developments, conflicts, and cooperation in the South Asian region after independence. It covers India’s relations with its neighbours like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives. The chapter also touches upon internal political changes in these countries and their foreign policies. Overall, it offers a full picture of how the region has evolved over the last few decades.

I wanted to write on this chapter because South Asia is not just important for exams, but it also connects directly to our everyday news and foreign policy discussions. When we hear about border issues, trade tensions, or SAARC summits, we often miss the background. This chapter lays that foundation clearly. Also, if you’re preparing for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, or state civil services, having a strong understanding of South Asian politics is crucial. For board students, this chapter also helps make sense of the changing political scenarios around us, especially concerning India’s neighbours.

Key Highlights of Contemporary South Asia

South Asia includes the following major countries: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. Though culturally and historically linked, these countries have had diverse political journeys since gaining independence.

1. India–Pakistan Relations

• India and Pakistan have fought three full wars – in 1947, 1965, and 1971.
• The main dispute is over Kashmir. Cross-border terrorism has further strained the relationship.
• Despite tensions, there have been efforts to improve ties, like the Agra Summit and Lahore Declaration.
• SAFTA (South Asian Free Trade Area) aimed to boost trade but remained limited due to political tensions.

2. Democracy in Bangladesh

• Bangladesh was formed in 1971 after the liberation war supported by India.
• It faced political instability in the 1970s and 1980s, with multiple military coups.
• From the 1990s, democracy began to stabilise, with regular elections and transitions of power.
• India shares good relations with Bangladesh in trade, culture, and border security.

3. Nepal’s Political Journey

• Nepal moved from monarchy to democracy in the 1990s.
• In 2008, it officially became a Republic, ending centuries of monarchy.
• India has strong ties with Nepal but issues like border disputes and constitutional differences sometimes cause tension.

4. Civil War in Sri Lanka

• The civil war in Sri Lanka between the government and LTTE (Tamil Tigers) lasted nearly three decades.
• India played a role by sending the IPKF (Indian Peace Keeping Force) in 1987, though it faced backlash.
• The war ended in 2009 with the defeat of LTTE, but ethnic issues still remain sensitive.

5. Bhutan and Maldives

• Bhutan has always maintained a close and friendly relationship with India.
• It follows a unique model of democracy and development based on Gross National Happiness.
• Maldives, a small island nation, has seen internal political instability, but India has often stepped in to support democratic institutions.

Regional Cooperation through SAARC

• South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established in 1985.
• It aims to promote regional unity, economic growth, and development.
• Progress has been slow due to India–Pakistan tensions.
• SAFTA was launched to reduce trade barriers but has not fully achieved its goals.

Summary Table: South Asian Political Developments

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NCERT Class 12 Political Science Part 1 Chapter 3 – Contemporary South Asia