Daily Current Affairs for UPSC : 25 Dec 2024 India and Lesotho Relations:

Why in news ?

India has sent a humanitarian aid consignment of 1,000 metric tonnes rice to Lesotho to assist with food security and nutritional needs.

India and Lesotho, a small, landlocked country in Southern Africa, share a cordial relationship marked by cooperation in various sectors, including economic development, education, and technical assistance. The diplomatic ties between the two countries have been growing over the years, with India extending support to Lesotho in a variety of areas.

Historical Context:

• Diplomatic Ties: India and Lesotho established formal diplomatic relations in 1966, shortly after Lesotho gained independence from Britain in 1966.
• Indian Presence in Lesotho: Over time, a significant Indian diaspora has settled in Lesotho, mainly involved in trade, commerce, and small businesses.

Key Areas of Bilateral Cooperation:

1. Economic and Trade Relations:
   • Trade: India’s exports to Lesotho include pharmaceuticals, machinery, and electronics, while Lesotho exports mostly textiles, wool, and garments.
   • Development Assistance: India has supported Lesotho’s development through India’s Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, providing training in various fields such as agriculture, healthcare, and education.
   • Lines of Credit: India has extended lines of credit to Lesotho for various infrastructure and developmental projects.
2. Humanitarian and Technical Support:
   • Healthcare: India has been assisting Lesotho in the field of healthcare, sending medical missions and providing medicines and medical equipment.
   • Education: India has offered scholarships and educational opportunities for students from Lesotho through various programs like ICC R&D scholarships and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarships.
   • Agriculture and Water Management: India has provided training to Lesotho’s agricultural officers under the ITEC program, aimed at improving agricultural practices and enhancing water management.
3. Peace and Security:
   • UN Cooperation: Both countries have cooperated within international organizations, especially at the United Nations, where they share common concerns on issues such as climate change, human rights, and sustainable development.
   • Defense Cooperation: Though there is limited direct defense cooperation, India has occasionally provided Lesotho with capacity-building support, including training and expertise.
4. Cultural and People-to-People Ties:
   • Cultural Diplomacy: India actively promotes its culture through various cultural events and exchanges. Lesotho benefits from Indian films, dance, and music through cultural exchange programs.
   • Indian Diaspora: The Indian community in Lesotho has a strong presence and plays a key role in enhancing bilateral relations. The Indian diaspora is engaged in trade, business, and contributes to the local economy.

Recent Developments:

• Strengthening Diplomatic Ties: In recent years, there have been efforts from both sides to enhance the bilateral relationship. India has shown interest in deepening ties with Lesotho, given its role in Southern Africa.
• Support During COVID-19: India extended its assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing medical supplies, vaccines, and support in the form of experts to help Lesotho manage the crisis.

Conclusion:

The relationship between India and Lesotho is characterized by mutual cooperation in trade, development, healthcare, education, and technical assistance. India’s support for Lesotho’s growth and development is an important aspect of the bilateral ties, and with the growing partnership in multiple sectors, both nations are likely to continue strengthening their ties in the future.