Which one of the following statements best reflects the issue with Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in the news ?

(a) It is generally believed that they are artificial islands made by a country around South China Sea.
(b) China and Japan engage in maritime disputes over these islands in East China Sea. ✓ UPSC's answer
(c) A permanent American military base has been set up there to help Taiwan to increase its defence capabilities.
(d) Though International Court of Justice declared them as no man's land, some South-East Asian countries claim them.

Why the answer is (b)

• The Senkaku Islands (Diaoyu to China) are a group of uninhabited islets in the East China Sea administered by Japan since 1972 but claimed by China and Taiwan — option (b).

• Tensions rose after Japan nationalised three of the islands in 2012; Chinese coastguard incursions near them are frequent, and the US has affirmed that its security treaty with Japan covers them.

• They are natural islands, not artificial ones (which China built in the South China Sea); there is no American base on them; and the ICJ has never ruled on them.

• Hence option (b).

Why the other options are wrong

(a) It is generally believed that they are artificial islands made by a country around South…: The Senkakus are natural islands in the East China Sea, not artificial.
(c) A permanent American military base has been set up there to help Taiwan to increase its…: There is no US base on the Senkakus.
(d) Though International Court of Justice declared them as no man's land, some South-East…: The ICJ has made no ruling on the islands.

Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2022, held on 5 June 2022. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.