1.

Political Mobilization (200 words)

Political mobilization refers to the process by which a group of people is organized to

pursue political goals and influence government policies or leadership. It plays a crucial
role in shaping democratic societies, where citizens express their interests through
elections, protests, petitions, and advocacy. In the context of Bangladesh, political
mobilization has a deep-rooted history, especially during the struggle for independence.
The Bengali population mobilized against the domination of West Pakistan, leading to
major movements such as the Language Movement of 1952, the Six-Point Movement of
1966, and the Mass Uprising of 1969. These events united people from different
backgrounds under a common cause. Political parties like the Awami League played a
central role in rallying public opinion and organizing large-scale protests and strikes.
Mobilization was not limited to party leadership but involved students, workers, farmers,
and intellectuals. In modern times, political mobilization continues to influence elections,
policy decisions, and governance in Bangladesh. However, it also faces challenges like
political polarization, corruption, and violence. Effective political mobilization should be
peaceful, issue-based, and inclusive, encouraging active participation from all sectors of
society to ensure democratic development and social justice.

2. United Front (200 words)

The United Front was a political alliance formed in East Bengal (now Bangladesh) in 1954
to contest the provincial elections against the ruling Muslim League. The alliance
consisted of several opposition parties, including the Awami League led by Huseyn
Shaheed Suhrawardy, the Krishak Sramik Party led by A. K. Fazlul Huq, and others. Their
aim was to end the dominance of the Muslim League, which was seen as representing the
interests of West Pakistan. The United Front presented a 21-point program focusing on the
socio-economic development of East Bengal, including the recognition of Bangla as a state
language, land reform, education for all, and autonomy for East Bengal. In the 1954
elections, the United Front achieved a landslide victory, winning 223 out of 237 Muslim
seats in the East Bengal Legislative Assembly. However, the central government of
Pakistan viewed the alliance as a threat and dismissed the United Front government
shortly after it assumed power. This act of repression sowed the seeds of future conflict
between East and West Pakistan and highlighted the urgent need for greater autonomy.
The United Front remains a symbol of unity among Bengali political forces against
oppression and central control.

3. Operation Searchlight (200 words)

Operation Searchlight was a brutal military operation launched by the Pakistan Army on
March 25, 1971, in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) to suppress the Bengali nationalist
movement. The operation was ordered by the Pakistani military leadership after political
negotiations failed between West Pakistan and the Awami League, which had won a
majority in the 1970 general elections. The operation began with a surprise night attack in
Dhaka, targeting student dormitories, political leaders, intellectuals, and civilians. Within
hours, thousands of Bengalis were killed. The operation soon expanded across the
country, resulting in widespread atrocities including massacres, rapes, and mass
displacement. The brutality of Operation Searchlight triggered the Bangladesh Liberation
War and prompted millions to flee to neighboring India. It also drew international
condemnation, although global responses were initially slow. The operation is considered
a planned genocide by many historians and human rights groups. March 25 is now
observed as Genocide Day in Bangladesh to honor the victims. Operation Searchlight
exposed the extreme measures taken by the Pakistani military to suppress Bengali identity
and ultimately led to the declaration of independence and the formation of the Mujibnagar
Government in April 1971.

4. Mujibnagar Government (200 words)

The Mujibnagar Government was the first provisional government of independent

Bangladesh, formed during the Liberation War of 1971. It was officially inaugurated on April
17, 1971, in the village of Baidyanathtala (later renamed Mujibnagar) in Meherpur district.
The government was formed to lead the liberation struggle after the arrest of Sheikh
Mujibur Rahman by the Pakistan Army during Operation Searchlight. Though Sheikh Mujib
was declared the President of Bangladesh in absentia, Syed Nazrul Islam served as the
acting President. Tajuddin Ahmad became the Prime Minister, while other key leaders like
M. Mansur Ali and A.H.M. Qamaruzzaman held important portfolios. The government
organized the resistance, coordinated the Mukti Bahini (freedom fighters), and sought
international recognition and support. It operated from Indian territory with support from
the Indian government. The Mujibnagar Government played a crucial role in uniting the
people of Bangladesh and legitimizing the liberation war. It established diplomatic
contacts, provided direction to guerrilla warfare, and ensured the welfare of refugees. This
government symbolized the birth of a sovereign Bangladesh and laid the foundation for the
future independent state. Its formation was a turning point that institutionalized the
struggle and galvanized national and international support for the cause of liberation.

5. Causes of Mass Uprising 1969 (200 words)

The Mass Uprising of 1969 in East Pakistan was a significant movement that laid the
groundwork for the Bangladesh Liberation War. The causes of this uprising were deeply
rooted in political, economic, and social injustices faced by the people of East Pakistan.
The central government of Pakistan, dominated by West Pakistan, consistently neglected
the economic and political rights of the Bengali population. Disparities in resource
distribution, job opportunities, and development funding created widespread frustration.
The imposition of Urdu as the only state language and repeated denial of Bengali political
aspirations intensified anger. The immediate spark came from dissatisfaction with the
autocratic rule of President Ayub Khan and his successor General Yahya Khan. The Six-
Point Movement launched by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1966 also played a vital role by
demanding greater autonomy for East Pakistan. The killing of student leader Asaduzzaman
Asad in a protest in January 1969 further ignited mass protests across cities. Students,
workers, and common people joined forces, leading to violent clashes with security forces.
Eventually, the pressure forced Ayub Khan to resign. The 1969 uprising marked a turning
point in the Bengali nationalist movement and was a precursor to the eventual war for
independence in 1971.

6. Response of the World to Liberation (200 words)

The world’s response to Bangladesh’s Liberation War in 1971 was complex, influenced by
geopolitical interests and the Cold War dynamics. While the Pakistani military's brutal
crackdown during Operation Searchlight shocked the global community, many Western
countries, including the United States and China, initially supported West Pakistan due to
strategic alliances. Despite global awareness of the atrocities, real-time intervention was
limited. However, public opinion, especially in Europe and India, strongly favored the
Bengali cause. The Indian government, under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, played a
crucial role by providing shelter to nearly 10 million refugees and offering military and
diplomatic support to the Mujibnagar Government. India also raised the issue in
international forums and mobilized global awareness through diplomatic missions. The
Soviet Union supported Bangladesh’s cause by signing a treaty of friendship with India and
opposing U.S.-backed Pakistan. International media, particularly British and American
journalists, exposed the genocide, stirring public pressure on governments. After the
Pakistani army surrendered on December 16, 1971, many countries began recognizing
Bangladesh as a sovereign state, with India being the first. The United Nations admitted
Bangladesh as a member in 1974. Overall, while initial responses were slow, global
support grew as the humanitarian crisis deepened.

7. Nene Bangladesh Concept (200 words)

The “Naya” or “New” Bangladesh (sometimes stylized as “Nene Bangladesh”) concept

refers to the vision of a reformed, modern, and prosperous Bangladesh built on democratic
values, good governance, and inclusive development. After gaining independence in 19 71,
the country faced enormous challenges—economic devastation, political instability, and
infrastructural collapse. The idea of a "new Bangladesh" was born from the hope of
rebuilding the nation through unity, justice, and progress. It emphasizes the importance of
education, industrial growth, agriculture, digital innovation, and environmental
sustainability. The concept gained momentum during the leadership of various
governments that launched long-term national plans like Vision 2021 and Vision 2041.
These visions aim to transform Bangladesh into a middle-income and later a developed
nation by focusing on human development, poverty reduction, and economic
diversification. Additionally, the youth are seen as the key force for creating this new
Bangladesh through education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. A “Nene Bangladesh” is
not just about physical infrastructure but also about establishing social equality,
transparency, and a corruption-free administration. It reflects the aspirations of a new
generation striving for a better and stronger Bangladesh that upholds the sacrifices of the
Liberation War while meeting the demands of the modern world.
8. Causes of July Revolution (200 words)

The term “July Revolution” generally refers to the French July Revolution of 1830, but in the
context of Bangladesh or South Asia, it may sometimes relate to other localized events in
July. If interpreted historically, the French July Revolution was caused by growing
dissatisfaction with King Charles X’s autocratic rule, censorship of the press, and
disregard for civil liberties. The revolution was sparked by the king's July Ordinances, which
dissolved the parliament, restricted voting rights, and curtailed freedom of expression.
These actions provoked mass protests in Paris. Workers, students, and the middle class
erected barricades and engaged in fierce street battles with the royal army. The revolution
ended with the abdication of Charles X and the establishment of a constitutional
monarchy under Louis-Philippe. The causes of the July Revolution are rooted in the clash
between the monarchy’s absolutist policies and the liberal aspirations of the French
people. It highlighted the power of mass mobilization and set an example for future
uprisings in Europe. If you meant a different July Revolution (such as one in Bangladesh or
elsewhere), please clarify the region or year for a more accurate explanation.

9. Concept of Democracy (200 words)

Democracy is a system of government where power is vested in the hands of the people,
either directly or through elected representatives. The core idea of democracy is based on
popular sovereignty, where the authority of the government derives from the consent of the
governed. It emphasizes fundamental principles like free and fair elections, rule of law,
freedom of speech and expression, human rights, and accountability of leaders. In a
democratic system, citizens have the right to participate in political processes, influence
decision-making, and hold governments accountable. There are two main types: direct
democracy, where citizens make decisions directly (used in small communities), and
representative democracy, where elected officials represent the people (used in most
modern states). Democracy promotes equality and inclusion, offering a platform for
diverse voices to be heard. However, it also faces challenges such as political polarization,
voter apathy, and the misuse of power. For democracy to function effectively, active
citizenship, independent institutions, and respect for dissent are essential. Bangladesh
follows a parliamentary democracy where the government is elected by the people through
regular elections. While the system has evolved since independence, ensuring
transparency, justice, and equal participation remains a continuing goal.
10. Principles and Challenges of Democracy (200 words)

The principles of democracy include popular sovereignty, political equality, the rule of law,
individual freedoms, and regular elections. In a democratic society, every citizen has the
right to vote, express opinions freely, and participate in governance without discrimination.
Democracy promotes accountability, transparency, and the protection of minority rights. It
also ensures a system of checks and balances among the executive, legislative, and
judicial branches of government. The press and civil society play key roles in maintaining
democratic norms by holding leaders accountable and informing the public.

However, democracy also faces several challenges. Corruption, lack of political

awareness, and weak institutions can undermine its foundations. In many countries,
elections are influenced by money and power, making it difficult for genuine public interest
to prevail. Political instability, intolerance, and the spread of misinformation can erode
public trust. In the context of Bangladesh, democracy faces challenges like political
violence, biased administration, and limited press freedom. Ensuring fair elections,
judicial independence, and civic education is crucial for strengthening democratic
practices. Despite these obstacles, the resilience of democratic institutions and the active
participation of citizens can ensure that democracy not only survives but thrives as a just
and inclusive system.

11. Local Government Formation (200 words)

Local government is a system of administration in which elected or appointed

representatives manage public affairs at the local level—such as villages, municipalities,
or districts. In Bangladesh, local government institutions are formed to ensure people's
participation in development and governance. The Constitution of Bangladesh recognizes
local government bodies as important tools of decentralization and grassroots democracy.
There are two main levels: rural and urban. In rural areas, the structure includes Union
Parishads, Upazila Parishads, and Zila Parishads. In urban areas, the structure consists of
City Corporations and Municipalities (Pourashavas). Local government bodies are typically
formed through direct elections, where people vote to elect their representatives for a fixed
term, usually five years. The Local Government Division under the Ministry of Local
Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives oversees this process. The formation
process involves voter registration, candidate nominations, election campaigns, voting,
and declaration of results by the Election Commission. Local governments are responsible
for local development, tax collection, infrastructure, sanitation, education, and public
health. Strengthening local government institutions is essential for efficient service
delivery and reducing dependency on the central government. However, challenges like
political interference, limited budgets, and weak administrative capacity can hinder their
effectiveness.

12. Function of Local Government (200 words)

The local government plays a vital role in delivering public services and implementing
development activities at the grassroots level. Its main function is to ensure that the needs
of local communities are addressed efficiently and effectively. In Bangladesh, local
government bodies such as Union Parishads, Upazila Parishads, and City Corporations
perform various duties to promote local development.

Key functions include maintaining rural and urban infrastructure (roads, bridges, and
drainage), ensuring sanitation and waste management, managing public health centers,
promoting primary education, and providing safe drinking water. Local governments also
play a crucial role in disaster management, social safety net programs, and agricultural
development. They help implement national policies at the local level and act as a bridge
between the government and citizens.

In addition to service delivery, local government bodies are involved in revenue collection
through taxes, fees, and licenses. They also conduct birth and death registrations and
issue trade licenses. Their involvement enhances public accountability and increases
community participation in development. Despite their importance, local governments in
Bangladesh face several issues such as insufficient funding, political interference, and
lack of trained personnel. Strengthening their autonomy and capacity is essential for
promoting decentralized and sustainable development.

13. 1952 Language Movement (200 words)

 The Language Movement of 1952 was a significant political and cultural struggle in East
Pakistan (now Bangladesh) demanding the recognition of Bangla as one of the state
languages of Pakistan. After the creation of Pakistan in 1947, the government attempted to
impose Urdu as the only state language, despite the fact that the majority of the population
in East Pakistan spoke Bangla. This sparked widespread protests and resistance among
students, intellectuals, and the general public. On February 21, 1952, students organized
demonstrations in Dhaka. The police opened fire on the protestors, killing several
students, including Salam, Rafiq, Barkat, and Jabbar. These martyrs became symbols of
resistance.

The movement forced the government to eventually recognize Bangla as one of the state
languages in 1956. The Language Movement is regarded as the first major step toward the
assertion of Bengali identity, and it laid the foundation for the later struggles that led to the
Liberation War of 1971. February 21 is now observed as International Mother Language
Day, recognized by UNESCO in 1999, honoring linguistic and cultural diversity worldwide.
The Language Movement remains a powerful symbol of sacrifice, unity, and national pride
in Bangladesh’s history.

14. Concept of Climate Change (200 words)

Climate change refers to long-term alterations in the Earth’s climate, particularly changes
in temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns over decades or centuries. While
climate can naturally vary, current climate change is primarily driven by human activities,
especially the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas, which release greenhouse
gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere. These gases—mainly carbon dioxide, methane, and
nitrous oxide—trap heat, leading to a rise in global temperatures, a phenomenon known as
global warming.

Climate change has severe consequences, including rising sea levels, more frequent and
intense natural disasters (like floods, cyclones, and droughts), melting glaciers, and
disrupted ecosystems. It also affects agriculture, water availability, and public health.
Scientists and international bodies like the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change) warn that without urgent global action to reduce GHG emissions, the planet will
face irreversible damage. Climate change requires global cooperation, including adopting
renewable energy, promoting sustainable practices, and protecting natural resources. In
response, countries have signed agreements like the Paris Agreement to limit global
warming to below 2°C. Public awareness and policy changes are essential for mitigating
the impacts of climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for coming generations.

15. Concept of Environment (200 words)

The environment encompasses all living and non-living things that surround us, including
air, water, land, plants, animals, and microorganisms. It provides the essential resources
and conditions for life on Earth. A healthy environment is crucial for maintaining
biodiversity, supporting human health, and ensuring the balance of natural ecosystems. It
includes both natural elements (forests, rivers, oceans, and atmosphere) and man-made
elements (urban infrastructure and agricultural systems).

Environmental sustainability involves using natural resources in a way that does not harm
the ecological balance or deplete resources for future generations. However, human
activities—such as deforestation, industrial pollution, overuse of fossil fuels, a nd waste
generation—have increasingly degraded the environment. These actions have led to
problems like air and water pollution, soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and climate change.

Environmental protection requires joint efforts at individual, community, national, and

global levels. This includes laws and policies that limit pollution, promote renewable
energy, conserve forests and wildlife, and encourage recycling. Environmental education
and awareness are also critical to inspire responsible behavior. In countries like
Bangladesh, environmental concerns are particularly urgent due to high population density
and vulnerability to climate impacts, making sustainable development a national priority.

16. Causes and Effects of Climate Change in Bangladesh (200 words)

Bangladesh is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, despite

contributing very little to global greenhouse gas emissions. Several causes and effects
make this issue particularly critical for the country. The primary cause is global warming
due to the accumulation of greenhouse gases from industrial activities worldwide. In
Bangladesh, contributing factors include deforestation, rapid urbanization, brick kilns, and
use of fossil fuels.

The effects of climate change in Bangladesh are severe and wide-ranging. Rising sea levels
threaten to submerge low-lying coastal regions, displacing millions of people. Salinity
intrusion in the southwest reduces soil fertility and contaminates drinking water. Erratic
weather patterns affect agriculture, with frequent floods, cyclones, droughts, and river
erosion damaging crops, homes, and infrastructure.

Climate change also increases the spread of diseases, disrupts fisheries, and worsens
poverty. Vulnerable communities—especially farmers, women, and coastal populations—
suffer the most. The government has implemented the Bangladesh Climate Change
Strategy and Action Plan (BCCSAP) and initiated programs on disaster risk reduction,
climate-resilient infrastructure, and renewable energy. International support is vital, but
public awareness and local action are equally important. Tackling climate change in
Bangladesh requires a multi-level response to protect livelihoods, ecosystems, and future
generations.

17. Why the Green Revolution in Bangladesh (200 words)

The Green Revolution in Bangladesh refers to the adoption of high-yielding crop varieties,
modern irrigation techniques, chemical fertilizers, and advanced agricultural practices to
boost food production. Initiated in the 1960s and 1970s, it was a response to the growing
population and recurring food shortages. Bangladesh, a country heavily dependent on
agriculture, needed to increase productivity to achieve food security and reduce hunger.

The main reasons for implementing the Green Revolution were frequent famines, limited
arable land, and poor crop yields using traditional methods. With the help of international
organizations like IRRI (International Rice Research Institute), the government introduced
high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of rice and wheat, particularly in irrigated areas.
Mechanization, pesticide use, and expansion of irrigation systems followed.

As a result, agricultural output—especially rice production—significantly increased,

helping the country move from food deficiency to near self-sufficiency in many years.
However, the revolution also brought challenges, including environmental degradation,
overuse of chemicals, and decreased biodiversity. Despite these issues, the Green
Revolution was a milestone in Bangladesh’s agricultural development. Today, efforts are
underway to promote a second green revolution using sustainable, climate-smart farming
techniques that ensure food security while preserving environmental resources.

18. Characteristics of Bangladesh Economy (200 words)

The economy of Bangladesh is classified as a developing, mixed economy with a growing
emphasis on industry and services, alongside a traditionally strong agricultural sector. One
of the key characteristics of the Bangladeshi economy is its rapid growth rate in recent
decades, averaging 6–7% annually before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Another major feature is the dominance of the readymade garments (RMG) industry, which
contributes over 80% of export earnings and employs millions, especially women.
Agriculture still plays a vital role, employing around 40% of the population and supplying
food and raw materials. The remittance sector also significantly contributes to the
economy, with millions of Bangladeshis working abroad and sending money home.

The informal sector is large, offering employment to a substantial portion of the

population, though often without job security or social protection. Poverty has declined,
but income inequality remains a concern. Urbanization and infrastructure development
are accelerating, while digital technology and entrepreneurship are gaining momentum.

Challenges include corruption, political instability, poor infrastructure, and vulnerability to

natural disasters and climate change. Despite these issues, Bangladesh is moving toward
becoming a middle-income country, with plans to graduate from Least Developed Country
(LDC) status by 2026, based on improvements in human development and economic
resilience.

19. Contribution of Agriculture in the Economy of Bangladesh (200 words)

Agriculture plays a foundational role in the economy of Bangladesh. Though its share in
GDP has declined with industrialization, it remains vital in terms of employment, food
security, and rural development. Approximately 40% of the population is engaged in
agriculture, which includes crop production, livestock, fisheries, and forestry. Rice, jute,
wheat, vegetables, and sugarcane are major crops.

Agriculture contributes significantly to national income, export earnings, and raw

materials for agro-based industries. It ensures food availability for over 170 million people
and is central to poverty reduction. Government programs like input subsidies, irrigation
development, agricultural research, and credit support have enhanced productivity.
 Fisheries and livestock also contribute substantially to nutrition and employment.
Moreover, agriculture supports the rural economy through associated services such as
transportation, market systems, and agro-processing. Despite its importance, the sector
faces challenges like land fragmentation, natural disasters, salinity intrusion, and the
effects of climate change.

To strengthen agriculture’s contribution, the government is promoting climate-smart

farming, mechanization, and diversification. Modern technologies, improved irrigation, and
access to markets are vital for sustainability. Thus, agriculture not only susta ins millions
but also underpins the socio-economic development and food sovereignty of Bangladesh.

20. Bangladesh Agricultural Sector Identification (200 words)

The agricultural sector of Bangladesh is broad and diverse, comprising several key sub-
sectors: crop production, livestock, fisheries, and forestry. Crop production is the largest
component, with rice as the staple food and primary crop. Other important crops include
jute (a traditional export), wheat, maize, sugarcane, pulses, oilseeds, and vegetables.

The livestock sub-sector includes cattle, goats, poultry, and dairy farming, playing a
crucial role in meat, milk, and egg production. It provides nutrition and livelihood for
millions of rural households. Fisheries, another essential sub-sector, include inland
(ponds, rivers) and marine fishing. Bangladesh is one of the world’s leading producers of
freshwater fish.

Forestry contributes by providing timber, fuelwood, and maintaining ecological balance.

The agricultural sector also includes horticulture, floriculture, and agro-processing
industries.

Government and non-government organizations support this sector through training,

inputs (seeds, fertilizers), irrigation facilities, and access to credit. Agricultural universities
and research institutes like BARI and BRRI play key roles in developing new technologies
and high-yield varieties.

Despite land scarcity and climate vulnerabilities, the agricultural sector is increasingly
adopting modern and climate-resilient practices. It remains central to employment, food
security, and economic growth, making it a cornerstone of national development.
21. Organs of the United Nations (200 words)

The United Nations (UN), established in 1945, has six principal organs that guide its work
on international peace, development, and cooperation.

1. The General Assembly: Composed of all member states, it serves as a deliberative

body that discusses international issues and adopts resolutions. Each member has
one vote.
2. The Security Council: Responsible for maintaining international peace and
security. It has 15 members—5 permanent (USA, UK, France, Russia, China) with
veto power, and 10 elected members.
3. The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC): Coordinates economic, social, and
humanitarian work through various specialized agencies. It promotes sustainable
development and cooperation.
4. The International Court of Justice (ICJ): Based in The Hague, it settles legal
disputes between states and provides advisory opinions on legal questions.
5. The Secretariat: Headed by the Secretary-General, it carries out the day-to-day
operations of the UN. It serves the other organs and implements their decisions.
6. The Trusteeship Council: Originally established to oversee trust territories, it has
suspended operations since 1994 as all trust territories have attained self-
government.

Together, these organs ensure that the UN fulfills its mission of promoting peace, human
rights, and sustainable development across the globe.

22. Concept of Foreign Policy (200 words)

Foreign policy refers to a nation’s strategy for managing its relationships and interactions
with other countries and international organizations. It encompasses decisions on
diplomacy, trade, defense, aid, and global cooperation. A country’s foreign policy reflects
its national interests, values, goals, and the external environment.

Key objectives of foreign policy include safeguarding national security, promoting

economic interests, maintaining international peace, and enhancing cultural and political
relations. Instruments of foreign policy include diplomacy, treaties, alliances, economic
sanctions, and international agreements.
 In Bangladesh, foreign policy is guided by the principle of “Friendship to all, malice
towards none,” first articulated by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. This peaceful
approach emphasizes cooperation, mutual respect, and non-interference in others'
internal affairs. Bangladesh actively participates in international bodies like the United
Nations, OIC, SAARC, and the Commonwealth.

Bangladesh’s foreign policy focuses on regional stability, economic diplomacy, labor

migration, and tackling climate change. Relations with neighboring countries such as
India, China, and Myanmar are of strategic importance.

As the world becomes more interconnected, foreign policy continues to evolve to address
new challenges like cyber security, global pandemics, and environmental threats. A well-
crafted foreign policy enhances a nation's global standing and secures its interests in a
complex world.

23. Determinants of Foreign Policy (200 words)

Several internal and external factors influence a country's foreign policy. These
determinants help shape the direction, priorities, and methods a state uses in dealing with
the international community.

1. Geography: A country's location affects its foreign relations. For instance,

Bangladesh’s proximity to India, China, and the Bay of Bengal plays a significant role in its
regional diplomacy.

2. History and culture: Shared histories, languages, and religions often influence
alliances and cooperation.

3. Economic interests: Trade needs, natural resources, and development goals shape
foreign engagements, especially with powerful economies and donor nations.

4. National security: Protecting borders, managing conflicts, and dealing with terrorism or
extremism are central foreign policy concerns.

5. Political ideology and leadership: The beliefs and priorities of government leaders
significantly influence foreign policy directions.

6. Public opinion and media: In democratic countries, citizens’ views and media
coverage can affect foreign policy decisions.
7. International laws and organizations: Membership in bodies like the UN or WTO also
guides conduct and policy.

For Bangladesh, its foreign policy is shaped by economic development goals, security
concerns, regional cooperation, and environmental vulnerabilities. By balancing these
factors, the country seeks to protect national interests and build peaceful global
partnerships.

24. Bangladesh–India Relations (200 words)

Bangladesh and India share a complex but deep-rooted relationship shaped by geography,
history, culture, and mutual interests. India played a vital role in Bangladesh’s Liberation
War of 1971 by providing military, humanitarian, and diplomatic support. Since then,
bilateral relations have evolved, featuring both cooperation and occasional tensions.

The two countries collaborate on trade, energy, security, counterterrorism, and climate
resilience. India is one of Bangladesh’s largest trading partners and a major investor in
infrastructure and connectivity projects. Initiatives like the BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan,
India, Nepal) sub-regional cooperation and agreements on water sharing, electricity
import, and cross-border transportation have strengthened ties.

However, unresolved issues remain, such as disputes over the Teesta River water-sharing
agreement and concerns over border killings. Political sentiments, particularly regarding
the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and migration issues in India, sometimes affect
diplomatic warmth.

Cultural and people-to-people exchanges are strong, with shared heritage in language,
music, and literature. High-level visits by both governments help maintain momentum in
cooperation.

Overall, Bangladesh–India relations are strategic and multi-dimensional, reflecting a

balance of friendship, interdependence, and negotiation. Continued dialogue and mutual
respect are essential to building a peaceful and prosperous South Asian region.