BPSC-134 IGNOU Solved Assignment 2026-27

Course Scope and Syllabus Overview: BPSC-134 Introduction to International Relations

BPSC-134: Introduction to International Relations is a foundational course within IGNOU’s Bachelor of Arts (BAG) curriculum, designed to equip students with a rigorous understanding of the theoretical and practical dimensions of global politics. This course explores the origins, evolution, and contemporary challenges of international relations, emphasizing key concepts like sovereignty, statecraft, realism, liberalism, and constructivism. Through structured analysis of historical case studies, diplomatic frameworks, and institutional dynamics, students develop critical thinking skills to evaluate geopolitical conflicts, alliances, and the role of international organizations. The syllabus aligns with the School of Social Sciences’ CBCS framework, ensuring students gain both theoretical depth and applied insights essential for academic and professional engagement in political science.

Key Syllabus Units and Topics

• Block-1: Introduction: This block introduces core definitions of international relations, tracing its historical roots from classical political thought to modern state systems, while examining foundational theories like Thucydides’ Melians Dialogue and Hobbes’ Leviathan.
• Block-2: Approaches: Students analyze competing paradigms—realism (power politics), liberalism (interdependence), and constructivism (norms and identity)—through case studies like the Cold War and NATO’s expansion, critiquing their explanatory power.
• Block-3: Developments in International Relations: Focuses on post-WWII transformations, including decolonization, nuclear proliferation, and the rise of non-state actors (e.g., NGOs, multinational corporations), with emphasis on the UN’s Charter and human rights frameworks.
• Block-4: International Organisations: Examines the structure, functions, and limitations of bodies like the UN Security Council, WTO, and regional alliances (e.g., ASEAN), evaluating their effectiveness in conflict resolution and global governance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How are TMA marks allocated in BPSC-134, and what is the minimum passing percentage for the course?
A: Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs) contribute 30% to the final grade, with each assignment carrying equal weight. The minimum passing mark for BPSC-134 is 40%, but students must achieve at least 33% in both theory and TMA components to qualify for the certificate.

Q: Are there specific word limits for BPSC-134 TMA answers, and how should students structure their responses?
A: IGNOU strictly enforces word limits: Section A requires 500–600 words per question, while Section B demands concise 250–300-word answers. Students should adhere to the prescribed format (e.g., introduction, analysis, conclusion) and cite relevant theories or case studies to demonstrate critical engagement with the syllabus content.