Context:
- India reiterated its “no-handshake” policy with Pakistan during the U-19 Asia Cup match in Dubai, where players from both sides avoided customary handshakes.
- The stance reflects India’s consistent diplomatic position amid strained bilateral relations.
Key Highlights:
Event Trigger:
- The policy was visible during the India vs Pakistan U-19 Asia Cup match, where Indian captain Ayush Mhatre did not shake hands with Pakistani players during the toss.
- The match concluded with India defeating Pakistan by 90 runs.
Policy Background:
- India’s no-handshake approach is part of a broader policy of limited sporting engagement with Pakistan.
- Reflects unresolved issues related to cross-border terrorism and security concerns.
Symbolic Significance:
- Sports diplomacy often mirrors broader foreign policy signals.
- Non-engagement serves as a symbolic protest rather than a sporting dispute.
Government Stand:
- The government has clarified that there is no change in policy regarding interactions with Pakistan, even in international sporting events.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Issue: Sports diplomacy amid strained bilateral relations.
- Causes:
- Persistent security concerns
- Terrorism-related tensions
- Key Concept:
- Sports as an extension of foreign policy signalling
- Impact:
- Limited people-to-people contact
- Reinforcement of diplomatic stance
Relevant Mains Points:
- Conceptual Clarity:
- Sports diplomacy can either bridge or reflect political divides.
- Symbolic actions reinforce policy consistency.
- Keywords:
- Foreign policy signalling
- Soft power
- Bilateral relations
- Way Forward:
- Maintain principled engagement
- Use multilateral platforms for dialogue when conditions permit
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
- GS Paper II: India–Pakistan relations, foreign policy
- GS Paper IV: Ethics in public conduct, national interest