[Download] PSIR & GS2 Daily Brief- 12 – May – 2026

Today’s brief covers these important themes:

Kanti Bajpai’s Indian Express article analysis India’s strategic autonomy against pressure from China, the EU, Russia and the US.

Kabir Taneja’s article in ORF focuses on Asian energy dependence on the Strait of Hormuz and yet no Asian security consensus.

Chandan Gowda in his article in Deccan Herald talks about introducing sortition, citizen assemblies and democracy beyond elections.

UPSC has previously asked question on these themes:

1. GS-II 2025: “Energy security constitutes the dominant kingpin of India’s foreign policy, and is linked with India’s overarching influence in Middle Eastern countries.” How would you integrate energy security with India’s foreign policy trajectories in the coming years?

2. PSIR 2025, Paper II: “India continues to invoke its time-tested policy of strategic autonomy vis-à-vis both the United States of America and Russia by rejecting US’ offer of mediation on Kashmir issue and by refusing to criticize Russia in its ongoing war against Ukraine. Comment.”

3. PSIR 2024, Paper I: “Deliberative democracy seeks to promote democratic decision making about public issues among the citizens. Discuss.”

4. GS-II 2024: “Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to ‘one nation – one election’ principle.”

5. PSIR 2023, Paper II: “What are the challenges and limitations in India – Iran relations?” and “Discuss the significance of ‘West Asia Quad’ in the light of India’s ‘Look West’ policy.”