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Context:
- Zimbabwe’s governing party moved to expel President Robert Mugabe from its ranks.
- Generals who assert their political influence rarely step back and should the coup in Zimbabwe fail to lead on to a genuine democratic transition, it could intensify authoritarianism and internal violence.
What is the impact on India?
- For India, the stakes are modest.
- Bilateral trade between India and Zimbabwe hovers around only $250 million.
- There are estimated to be less than 1,000 Indian citizens in Zimbabwe, along with some 10,000 people of ethnic-Gujarati origin.
Why India needs to be pay attention?
- There are good strategic reasons for India to follow events closely:
- India has begun investing seriously in Africa over the past decade, hoping to retain its historic influence in the face of a growing Chinese presence.
- Throughout Africa, China has been the principal beneficiary of authoritarianism and corruption.
- Thus, India can work to facilitate a good outcome, by throwing its weight behind South Africa-led mediation efforts, and persuading Western governments.
Bilateral trade between India and Zimbabwe:
- Statistics: Bilateral trade between India and Zimbabwe totaled US$ 222.31 million in 2014-15. Indian exports to Zimbabwe stood at $222.19 million, while imports stood at $120,000.
- Public sector firm: Indian public sector firms such as Indian Railway Construction Company (IRCON), Rail India Technical & Economic Services (RITES), Water and Power Consultancy Services (WAPCOS) and Telecommunications India Ltd. (TCIL) are active in Zimbabwe.
- Agriculture: Irrigation supply pumps and irrigation equipment to Zimbabwe.
- Health: Indian pharmaceutical firms have a strong presence in the Zimbabwean market and Indian-made medicines are commonly found in the country.
