TEN CRITICAL QUESTIONS ON CURRENT GEOPLOITICAL AND NATIONAL ISSUES – 177
18 September 2026
PRERNA FOR IAS
(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)
TEN CRITICAL QUESTIONS ON CURRENT GEOPLOITICAL AND NATIONAL ISSUES – 177
1. How should India respond if the United States imposes tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil?
Answer: India should protect its energy security while avoiding unnecessary confrontation with the United States. The proposed U.S. legislation allows tariffs of up to 100% on countries buying Russian energy, while Russian crude has become important in India's energy basket. India can argue that its purchases are driven by affordability and the energy needs of a large developing economy. At the same time, excessive dependence on any supplier creates vulnerability. Therefore, India should diversify crude sources, strengthen strategic petroleum reserves and expand renewable energy. Strategic autonomy is strongest when India has multiple choices, not when it becomes dependent on one supplier or one geopolitical bloc.
2. Why should India build an entire semiconductor ecosystem instead of merely establishing semiconductor factories?
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Critical analysis of 10 geopolitical and national issues including energy security, semiconductors, BRICS relations, Himalayan conservation and economic growth for UPSC aspirants.
Keywords
energy securityUS tariffssemiconductor ecosystemBRICS sanctionsHimalayan conservationGDP growthstrategic autonomymultipolaritygeopolitical issuesnational development