3. Introduction of SAARC
SAARC is an intergovernmental
organization aimed at promoting
economic and regional integration in
South Asia.
Established: December 8, 1985
Founding Members: India, Pakistan,
Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka,
and Maldives
Headquarters: Kathmandu, Nepal
Key Idea: Strengthen regional
cooperation and mutual assistance
among member states.
4. Historical Background
Idea first conceived by President Zia-Ut-Rehman of
Bangladesh during 1977-78.
In May 1980, formal call for SAARC regional cooperation
issued to all by him.
First meeting of foreign secretaries of seven countries-
Bangladesh , Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka
and Pakistan held in Colombo in April 1981.
Formally established on December 8, 1985 after four and
a half years of preparation.
Afghanistan became eighth member of SAARC in April
2007 at 14th
SAARC summit.
5. Member Countries
1. Afghanistan (joined in 2007)
2. Bangladesh
3. Bhutan
4. India
5. Maldives
6. Nepal
7. Pakistan
8. Sri Lanka
6. Objectives
Promote the welfare of the people in South
Asia.
Accelerate economic growth, social
progress, and cultural development.
Strengthen collective self-reliance.
Enhance regional collaboration in various
fields (technology, health, environment,
etc.).
Promote peace and stability through
mutual understanding.
7. Structure of SAARC
Council of Heads of Country:
Highest decision-making authority.
Council of Ministers: Comprises
foreign ministers to formulate
policies.
Standing Committee: Comprises
foreign secretaries for budget and
policy approval.
SAARC Secretariat: Based in
Kathmandu, coordinates activities.
Specialized Bodies: Includes SAARC
Development Fund, SAARC Energy
Centre, etc.
8. Areas of Cooperation
Economic Cooperation: South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA). Aims to foster
a free trade zone in the region, improving economic interdependence.
Social Welfare: Initiatives in health, poverty alleviation, and women
empowerment.
Agriculture & Rural Development: Collaboration on food security and
sustainable agriculture.
Education & Culture: Scholarships, youth exchange programs, and cultural
festivals.
Environment & Disaster Management: Regional action plans for climate
change and disaster risk reduction.
9. Achievements of SAARC
SAFTA Agreement (2004): Boosted regional trade
by reducing tariffs.
SAARC Development Fund (SDF): Supports social
and economic development projects.
Regional Centers : Initiated various research and
training programs.
Cooperation in Health: Initiatives on HIV/AIDS and
other communicable diseases.
Cultural Exchange: Promotion of shared heritage
through festivals and events.
10. Challenges Faced by SAARC
Political Tensions: Long-standing conflicts between India and Pakistan, have
frequently disrupted SAARC’S progress.
Economic Disparity: Vast economic differences between member countries like
India as the largest economy dominating trade, while smaller nations like Bhutan
and Maldives struggle to compete.
Lack of Funding: Limited resources for initiatives and infrastructure.
Ineffective Decision-Making: Lack of enforcement mechanisms and slow
progress.
Dependence on External Powers : Many SAARC projects depend on funding and
technical assistance from external powers, such as the World Bank or
developed nations.
11. Conclusion
Despite the challenges it faces, SAARC
remains a vital platform for promoting
regional cooperation in South Asia. It has
achieved some notable successes in areas
like trade, infrastructure development, and
disaster management. As the region
grapples with complex issues such as
poverty, inequality, and climate change,
strengthening regional cooperation is crucial
for a brighter future
