Ans. The IPEF (India-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum) is a regional economic cooperation platform that aims to enhance economic integration and cooperation among its member countries. India decided to stay out of the 'Trade Pillar' of the IPEF because it felt that the proposed trade agreements did not address its concerns regarding market access, tariff reductions, and non-tariff barriers. India believed that its participation in the 'Trade Pillar' would not be in its best interest and could potentially hinder its domestic industries.