With reference to Artemis Accord signed by India recently, consider the following statements:1.It is an attempt by India to collaborate on the next generation of space technologies with the US.2.It will also strengthen the bilateral relations between the US and Russia, as India being the part of the group, may act as a mediator between the two nations.3.The agreement indicates a shift in the US stance towards India by allowing India access to crucial space technology. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Q. With reference to Artemis Accord signed by India recently, consider the following statements:
1.It is an attempt by India to collaborate on the next generation of space technologies with the US.
2.It will also strengthen the bilateral relations between the US and Russia, as India being the part of the group, may act as a mediator between the two nations.
3.The agreement indicates a shift in the US stance towards India by allowing India access to crucial space technology. .
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

[A] 1 only

[B] 2 and 3 only

[C] 1 and 2 only

[D] 1 and 3 only

Answer: D

Notes:

Explanation –

Statements 1 and 3 are correct. By signing the accord, India has aligned itself with the US-led space exploration program. This shows India’s attempt to collaborate on the next generation of space technologies with the US. The agreement also indicates a shift in the US stance towards India by allowing India access to crucial space technology because in past, there has been instances where the US hindered India’s access to crucial space technology.

Statement 2 is incorrect. Russia and China are not part of the group. Hence, there are no chances of mediating. Even if Russia would have been part of the group and India acted as a mediator, it wouldn’t have strengthened the relation between the two nations.

Source: ForumIAS

Post-Mains Strategy Session by Mr. Ayush Sinha | ForumIAS