व्यापार नीति का पुनरुत्थान: आधुनिक राज्यकला में एक महत्वपूर्ण उपकरण

The main idea is that trade policy is increasingly being used by countries to achieve strategic objectives, such as advancing foreign policy goals, enhancing national security, and exerting global influence, rather than just focusing on economic benefits.

The use of trade policy as statecraft can impact common citizens through changes in prices of goods, availability of products, and overall economic stability. For example, tariffs imposed during trade wars can increase the cost of imported goods, affecting household budgets.

Recent developments include the US-China trade war, where both countries imposed tariffs on each other's goods, and the COVID-19 pandemic, which exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains and prompted countries to reassess their trade relationships.

Historically, control over trade routes and access to resources has been central to the rise and fall of empires. The Silk Road, for example, facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas, shaping geopolitical dynamics across Eurasia. Mercantilism, prevalent in Europe from the 16th to 18th centuries, also used trade to enhance national power.

Understanding the strategic dimensions of trade policy can help in answering questions related to international relations, economic policy, and national security. It allows for a more nuanced analysis of global events and the ability to provide well-informed opinions in essay-type questions and the personality test.

Potential drawbacks include strained international relations, trade wars, economic instability, and disruptions to global supply chains. Protectionist measures can also harm domestic consumers by increasing prices and limiting choices.

In this context, 'national security' entails protecting a country's critical industries, ensuring access to essential resources, and reducing dependence on potential adversaries. It involves using trade policy to safeguard strategic interests and maintain economic sovereignty.

India can use trade policy to diversify its export markets, secure access to critical technologies and resources, and promote its geopolitical influence in the region. This involves strategically negotiating trade agreements and leveraging its economic strengths.

A possible MCQ could be: 'Which of the following best describes the use of trade policy as statecraft? (a) Solely focusing on economic gains (b) Using trade to achieve strategic objectives (c) Ignoring national security concerns (d) Promoting free trade at all costs'. The correct answer would be (b).

Potential essay topics include: 'The Resurgence of Trade Policy as Statecraft: Implications for Global Order', or 'India's Trade Policy: Balancing Economic Interests with Strategic Objectives'.