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Political Discourse

2395-22292582-2691

Prof. R S Yadav

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BOOK REVIEW

Book Review

Singh

Surender

¹CBMs in India – Pakistan Relations, New Delhi, K.K. Publications, 2018 pp.287, Rs 895/-(H.B.)

1122018

42107108

2018

IndianJournals.com

Trajectory of India-Pakistan relations witnessed chequered path since their inception in 1947. Most of the time peace has eluded their bilateral ties. The itinerary of their relations moved from conflict to de-escalation to conflict and again to de-escalation but very seldom to cooperation. Because of certain subjective and objective conditionalities they failed to attain the stage of détente and finally peace. There have been small phases of efforts towards friendship between the two, but that did not remain durable. However, for the tranquillity of world in general and South Asia in particular, friendship between the two countries is not only essential but inevitable. But to create a congenial milieu for dialogue between the two hostile nations, need is to create confidence between them. In the context, study of CBMs is very vital. Hence the present book is a welcome step to understand not only the current studies of relationship between India and Pakistan, but also the direction of their future ties.

Present study is a very profound and an in depth evaluation of utility and working of confidence- building measures (CBMs) between India and Pakistan. After highlighting the importance of CBMs in resolving long standing issues at bilateral level, author has presented a theoretical framework at the outset so that problem can be understood in proper perspective. It is admitted that though concept of CBM originated as western diplomatic level especially among the superpowers, yet it can also be equally useful in conflict resolution among any two hostile states. Despite based on some sound basic assumptions (p.27), author feels that there are gaps between the theory and practice of this concept (pp. 30–33). However, as a strategy for peace this concept can be analyzed at their levels: I. Conflict Avoidance; II. Confidence Building; III. Strengthening of Peace and Cooperation. (p.34) Later on author has provided a detailed regaining methodologies and issues involved at all the three levels. It has been followed by a detailed examination of military and non-military CBMs pursued by both the states. It is perceived that through these measures both have enhanced connectivity and contacts so as to reduce trust-deficit between these states.

However, author is aware about this fact that due to complex nature of the issues involved between the two states it may not be able to resolve all problems immediately. Certain issues like – Kashmir problem, terrorism, drug trafficking, Siachen problem, Sir Creek problem, water disputes, soft borders etc. – are going to prove as irritant between their smooth ties. But author is optimistic about initiation of peace process and of the view that these can be strengthen through the activities of – people-to-people contact, moderate visa policy, promotion of academic activities, effective trade links, cultural and sports activities, use of technology, removal of historical distortions, role of media, removal of religious hatred, establishment of military contacts, link between parliamentarians, bleat in pacific settlement of disputes and engaging counter terrorism adopted by both of them through mutual consent. It is followed by finding of research on the issue are recorded in the form of conclusion.

Over all this is a well-researched and well documented book produced by the author with critical appraisal of intricacies involved in the problems between India and Pakistan. Good understandings about theoretical and practical dimensions of the CBMs are provided for anyone interested in the study of India-Pakistan bilateral ties in contemporary times. Author has also provided in the end nine annexures, which are very rare and relevant for the understanding of problems between India and Pakistan. Enclosure of a detailed bibliography at the end is a welcome addition as it may be helpful for the future researchers working on this theme.

Though author has taken meticulous care in organizing and evaluation of different facets of the issues involved, yet it would have been better if the role of domestic politics and external powers would have also been examined for the non-resolution of some issues between the two states. However, despite this small lapse it is a well-articulated and lucidly presented work on India-Pakistan relations. This is really a value addition in the existing literature on the theme. This is worth reading book for the scholars, researchers, teachers, media analysts, diplomats and policy makers. Besides, it must be procured by all the libraries of Universities, research centers, ministry of external affairs and other public reading institutions.

Dr. Pradeep KumarAssistant Professor,Department of Political ScienceMD University, Rohtak