Correct Option
The correct option is A-3, B-2, C-4, D-1.
[as per provisional answerkey]
Explanation
India’s foreign policy involves extensive developmental assistance and infrastructure projects in neighboring countries under the "Neighbourhood First" policy. These projects span energy, heritage conservation, healthcare, and institutional capacity building.
- A. Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project (Bhutan): This is a 720MW run-of-the-river power plant built on the Mangdechhu River in Trongsa District, central Bhutan. It was funded by India through a mix of grants and loans and was inaugurated in 2019 as a symbol of bilateral energy cooperation.
- B. Restoration of Stor Palace (Afghanistan): The Stor Palace (also known as Darul Aman Palace complex area) in Kabul was restored with Indian financial assistance. It was inaugurated in 2016. The project reflects India's commitment to preserving the cultural heritage and institutional history of Afghanistan.
- C. District Hospital at Dickoya (Sri Lanka): India provided grant assistance for the construction of a 150-bed multi-specialty hospital at Dickoya in the Hatton region of Sri Lanka. This facility primarily serves the Indian-origin Tamil community working in the tea plantations of the central highlands.
- D. Institute of Security and Law Enforcement Studies (Maldives): India supported the establishment of the National College of Policing and Law Enforcement (formerly referred to in development phases as the Institute of Security and Law Enforcement Studies) in Addu City, Maldives. It is one of the largest grant-funded projects by India in the archipelago.
Key Takeaway: India’s developmental partnership in South Asia is characterized by diverse sectoral interventions: Hydro-power in Bhutan, Heritage restoration in Afghanistan, Healthcare in Sri Lanka, and Security training infrastructure in Maldives.