India and UK Finalize Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
After years of negotiations, India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to boost bilateral trade and investment.
2-Minute Summary (TL;DR)
- Landmark FTA signed between India and the UK.
- Aims to double bilateral trade by 2030.
- Includes a 'Migration and Mobility' chapter for professionals.
- Reduces tariffs on key exports like textiles and spirits.
How This Topic is Tested in Competitive Exams
| Exam | Frequency | Approx. Marks | What Gets Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC / State PCS | Very High | 10–20 | International relations is a core GS-II topic for UPSC. Bilateral agreements, multilateral bodies, and geopolitics are essential. |
| Banking (IBPS / SBI) | Medium | 2–4 | G20, IMF/World Bank decisions, and global trade events are tested in banking exams. |
| SSC (CGL / CHSL / MTS) | Medium | 2–4 | International summits, treaties, and India's bilateral relations appear in SSC GK. |
| State PCS / PSC | Medium | 3–5 | State PCS papers test India's role in international forums and bilateral trade ties. |
What to Memorize from This Topic
- Summit venue, participating nations, key outcomes, and India's stand
- Bilateral agreements: India + partner country, subject area, signing date
- Multilateral organizations: new members, leadership changes, major resolutions
- India's position on key global issues: UN voting, climate, trade
- Indices: Global Peace Index, Press Freedom Index, India's rank and change
Practice Questions
Q1. The trade agreement signed between India and the UK is known as:
- CEPA
- CPTPP
- RCEP
- SAFTA
Explanation: The agreement is called the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Q2. What is the target year for doubling bilateral trade between India and the UK under the new deal?
- 2025
- 2028
- 2030
- 2035
Explanation: The deal aims to double the bilateral trade between the two nations by the year 2030.
How to Prepare International Affairs for Government Exams
Focus on India-centric news — India's bilateral visits, MoUs signed, and positions in international bodies. This is what domestic exams test.
For UPSC, understand geopolitical context: Why does India take a particular position? What is India's strategic interest?
Keep a running note of all G20, SCO, BRICS, and QUAD-related outcomes. These bodies generate 3–5 questions per major exam cycle.
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