Correct Answer: South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
Explanation: SAARC stands for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, which is an organization of South Asian nations aimed at promoting economic and regional integration.
Correct Answer: 1985
Explanation: SAARC was established on December 8, 1985, with the signing of the SAARC Charter in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Correct Answer: China
Explanation: China is not a member of SAARC. SAARC consists of eight member countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Correct Answer: Kathmandu, Nepal
Explanation: The headquarters of SAARC is located in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Correct Answer: Promoting economic cooperation and regional integration among member states
Explanation: The main objective of SAARC is to promote economic cooperation and regional integration among its member states.
Correct Answer: India
Explanation: India is the largest SAARC member country by land area.
Correct Answer: Biennially
Explanation: SAARC summits take place biennially, with member countries hosting the summit on a rotational basis.
Correct Answer: Sri Lanka
Explanation: Sri Lanka hosted the first SAARC summit in 1985.
Correct Answer: Hindi
Explanation: Hindi is not an official language of SAARC. The official languages of SAARC are English, Bengali, and Hindi.
Correct Answer: Dharma Chakra
Explanation: The symbol of SAARC is the Dharma Chakra, which represents unity among its member countries and the common goal of progress and prosperity.
Correct Answer: 1980
Explanation: The idea of forming SAARC was first proposed in 1980 by the former President of Bangladesh, Ziaur Rahman.
Correct Answer: Signing of the Dhaka Declaration
Explanation: The formal establishment of SAARC was marked by the signing of the Dhaka Declaration on December 8, 1985, in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Correct Answer: 8
Explanation: Eight countries initially signed the SAARC Charter in 1985. These countries were Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Correct Answer: Sri Lanka
Explanation: Sri Lanka hosted the first SAARC Summit in 1985, where the Dhaka Declaration was signed.
Correct Answer: Afghanistan
Explanation: Afghanistan was the last country to join SAARC, becoming a member in 2007.
Correct Answer: Economic integration
Explanation: The primary motivation behind the formation of SAARC was to promote economic integration and cooperation among South Asian countries.
Correct Answer: Abul Ahsan
Explanation: Abul Ahsan of Bangladesh was the first Secretary-General of SAARC, serving from 1985 to 1989.
Correct Answer: South Asian Development Cooperation Organization (SADCO)
Explanation: The original name proposed for SAARC before it was officially named was the South Asian Development Cooperation Organization (SADCO).
Correct Answer: Bangladesh
Explanation: The idea of forming SAARC was proposed by the former President of Bangladesh, Ziaur Rahman, during the 1980 meeting of the UN General Assembly.
Correct Answer: To promote economic development and regional integration
Explanation: The main objective of SAARC, as outlined in the Dhaka Declaration, was to promote economic development and regional integration among member countries.
Correct Answer: Partition of India and Pakistan
Explanation: The partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 created tensions and divisions in South Asia, prompting the need for regional cooperation and dialogue, eventually leading to the establishment of SAARC.
Correct Answer: South Asian Regional Cooperation Organization (SARCO)
Explanation: The South Asian Regional Cooperation Organization (SARCO) served as a precursor to SAARC and aimed to promote regional cooperation in South Asia, laying the groundwork for the establishment of SAARC.
Correct Answer: Exacerbating tensions and conflicts in the region
Explanation: The Cold War dynamics exacerbated tensions and conflicts in South Asia, creating a need for regional cooperation and dialogue, which contributed to the historical context of SAARC’s establishment.
Correct Answer: It provided a platform for South Asian leaders to discuss regional cooperation
Explanation: The 1980 meeting of the UN General Assembly provided a platform for South Asian leaders to discuss regional cooperation, leading to discussions that eventually led to the establishment of SAARC.
Correct Answer: Ziaur Rahman (Bangladesh)
Explanation: Ziaur Rahman, the former President of Bangladesh, played a significant role in advocating for the formation of SAARC during the 1980 meeting of the UN General Assembly.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: In the historical context of SAARC’s establishment, key challenges and obstacles included linguistic diversity, cultural differences, lack of political will, trust among South Asian countries, economic disparities, and resource constraints.
Correct Answer: Economic integration and regional cooperation
Explanation: The primary motivation behind the proposal to form SAARC was to promote economic integration and regional cooperation among South Asian countries.
Correct Answer: Bangladesh
Explanation: Bangladesh hosted the meeting that led to the formal establishment of SAARC, resulting in the signing of the Dhaka Declaration in 1985.
Correct Answer: To foster economic development, social progress, and cultural cooperation in South Asia
Explanation: In the historical context of its establishment, the overarching goal of SAARC was to foster economic development, social progress, and cultural cooperation in South Asia.
Correct Answer: The non-aligned movement summit in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Explanation: The non-aligned movement summit in Colombo, Sri Lanka, served as a catalyst for the proposal to form SAARC, where the idea of regional cooperation in South Asia was discussed among leaders.
Correct Answer: Ziaur Rahman (Bangladesh)
Explanation: Ziaur Rahman, the former President of Bangladesh, first proposed the idea of forming SAARC during the 1980 meeting of the UN General Assembly.
Correct Answer: To explore the possibility of forming a regional organization for South Asian countries
Explanation: The main objective of the meeting held in Colombo in 1981 was to explore the possibility of forming a regional organization for South Asian countries, laying the groundwork for the establishment of SAARC.
Correct Answer: Bangladesh
Explanation: Bangladesh hosted the meeting where the concept of SAARC was formally proposed, leading to the signing of the SAARC Charter in 1985.
Correct Answer: Simla Agreement
Explanation: The Simla Agreement signed between India and Pakistan in 1972 contributed to the regional atmosphere conducive to the formation of SAARC by addressing bilateral tensions and promoting dialogue between the two countries.
Correct Answer: Bangladesh
Explanation: Bangladesh hosted the first SAARC Summit in 1985, where the Dhaka Declaration was signed, marking the formal establishment of SAARC.
Correct Answer: Economic integration and regional cooperation
Explanation: The Dhaka Declaration, signed during the first SAARC Summit, aimed to achieve economic integration and regional cooperation among South Asian countries.
Correct Answer: Sri Lanka
Explanation: Sri Lanka hosted the second SAARC Summit in 1986, continuing the process of regional cooperation and dialogue initiated by the first summit.
Correct Answer: Assassination of Ziaur Rahman in Bangladesh
Explanation: The assassination of Ziaur Rahman in Bangladesh in 1988 led to the postponement of the third SAARC Summit initially scheduled to be held in the Maldives.
Correct Answer: Maldives
Explanation: Maldives hosted the third SAARC Summit in 1987, contributing to the regional dialogue and cooperation efforts within SAARC.
Correct Answer: China
Explanation: China is not a member of SAARC. SAARC consists of eight member countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Correct Answer: Afghanistan
Explanation: Afghanistan joined SAARC as its eighth member in 2007, expanding the organization’s reach and influence.
Correct Answer: Nepal
Explanation: Nepal is located entirely within the Himalayas, making it one of the SAARC member countries with significant mountainous terrain.
Correct Answer: Maldives
Explanation: Maldives is an archipelago consisting of over a thousand islands in the Indian Ocean, making it one of the SAARC member countries with unique geographical features.
Correct Answer: Nepal
Explanation: Nepal shares its borders with China and India, making it strategically located among SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: India
Explanation: India has the largest land area among SAARC member countries, covering a diverse range of geographical features.
Correct Answer: Sri Lanka
Explanation: Sri Lanka, located on the Indian subcontinent, is known for its tea production, among other agricultural products.
Correct Answer: Bhutan
Explanation: Bhutan is a landlocked SAARC member country bordered by India and China, with a unique cultural heritage and geographical setting.
Correct Answer: Maldives
Explanation: Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs.
Correct Answer: Bangladesh
Explanation: Bangladesh is known for its extensive river networks, including the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers, which play a significant role in the country’s geography and agriculture.
Correct Answer: 8
Explanation: Eight founding members initially signed the SAARC Charter in 1985. These countries were Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Correct Answer: Afghanistan
Explanation: Afghanistan was the last South Asian country to join SAARC as a member state in 2007.
Correct Answer: New Delhi Summit (2007)
Explanation: Afghanistan was admitted as the eighth member of SAARC during the New Delhi Summit in 2007.
Correct Answer: Male Summit (2000)
Explanation: The Male Summit scheduled for 2000 was postponed due to political unrest in Maldives.
Correct Answer: Bangladesh
Explanation: Bangladesh hosted the first SAARC Summit in 1985, where the Dhaka Declaration was signed.
Correct Answer: 8
Explanation: Eight South Asian countries were initially admitted to SAARC in 1985 as founding members.
Correct Answer: New Delhi Summit (2007)
Explanation: The New Delhi Summit in 2007, hosted by India, saw the formal admission of Afghanistan as the eighth member of SAARC.
Correct Answer: Bangladesh
Explanation: Bangladesh was the first South Asian country to propose the establishment of SAARC during the 1980 meeting of the UN General Assembly.
Correct Answer: Kathmandu Summit (2014)
Explanation: The Kathmandu Summit was held in Nepal in 2014, providing a platform for member countries to discuss regional cooperation and issues.
Correct Answer: Male Summit (1997)
Explanation: The Male Summit hosted by Sri Lanka in 1997 saw the signing of the Colombo Declaration on Women, emphasizing the empowerment and rights of women in the region.
Correct Answer: Bangladesh
Explanation: Bangladesh is known for its extensive river networks, including the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers, which play a significant role in the country’s geography and agriculture.
Correct Answer: Bhutan
Explanation: Bhutan is a landlocked SAARC member country bordered by India and China, with a unique cultural heritage and geographical setting.
Correct Answer: Maldives
Explanation: Maldives is an archipelago consisting of over a thousand islands in the Indian Ocean, making it one of the SAARC member countries with unique geographical features.
Correct Answer: Sri Lanka
Explanation: Sri Lanka is known for its tea production and Buddhist heritage sites, contributing to its cultural and economic significance within the SAARC region.
Correct Answer: Nepal
Explanation: Nepal shares its borders with China, India, and Myanmar, making it strategically located among SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: Afghanistan
Explanation: Afghanistan is known for its diverse linguistic and ethnic communities, including Pashtuns, Tajiks, and Hazaras, contributing to its cultural richness and complexity.
Correct Answer: Nepal
Explanation: Nepal is predominantly Hindu and known for its scenic landscapes and the Himalayan mountain range, attracting tourists and mountaineers from around the world.
Correct Answer: Sri Lanka
Explanation: Sri Lanka is an island nation with a diverse cultural heritage influenced by Indian, Arab, and European cultures, contributing to its vibrant and unique identity within the SAARC region.
Correct Answer: Pakistan
Explanation: Pakistan is known for its rich history, archaeological sites, and the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, showcasing the country’s cultural and historical significance within the SAARC region.
Correct Answer: Bhutan
Explanation: Bhutan is known for its lush green landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and the concept of Gross National Happiness, reflecting its unique cultural and political values within the SAARC region.
Correct Answer: Economic integration
Explanation: The primary objective of SAARC is to promote economic integration and cooperation among member countries.
Correct Answer: Military expansion
Explanation: SAARC’s key objectives include poverty alleviation, cultural cooperation, and regional stability, but not military expansion.
Correct Answer: Facilitating trade and investment among member countries
Explanation: SAARC’s main goal in terms of economic cooperation is to facilitate trade and investment among member countries, promoting economic growth and development.
Correct Answer: Agriculture and rural development
Explanation: SAARC focuses on sectors such as agriculture and rural development for regional cooperation, aiming to address common challenges and promote sustainable development.
Correct Answer: Promoting cultural exchange and understanding
Explanation: SAARC aims to achieve cultural exchange and understanding among member countries through cultural cooperation, fostering mutual respect and appreciation of diverse cultures.
Correct Answer: Women’s empowerment and gender equality
Explanation: SAARC prioritizes women’s empowerment and gender equality for social development, aiming to address gender disparities and promote social inclusion.
Correct Answer: Promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation
Explanation: SAARC plays a role in promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation to address environmental challenges, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations.
Correct Answer: Human trafficking prevention
Explanation: While human trafficking prevention is an important issue, it is not explicitly listed as a priority area for SAARC in promoting regional cooperation.
Correct Answer: Strengthening healthcare systems
Explanation: SAARC aims to achieve the strengthening of healthcare systems through cooperation in the field of health, promoting access to quality healthcare services for all member countries.
Correct Answer: Unity and solidarity
Explanation: SAARC’s efforts in promoting regional cooperation are guided by the principles of unity and solidarity, emphasizing the importance of working together to address common challenges and achieve shared goals.
Correct Answer: Military alliances
Explanation: Military alliances are not considered a core area of cooperation within SAARC. SAARC primarily focuses on trade and economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, social development, and other non-military aspects of regional cooperation.
Correct Answer: Promoting economic growth and development
Explanation: One of the main objectives of trade and economic cooperation within SAARC is to promote economic growth and development among member countries by facilitating trade, investment, and collaboration in various economic sectors.
Correct Answer: SAARC Food Security Initiative
Explanation: The SAARC Food Security Initiative focuses on promoting cooperation in the field of agriculture and rural development to ensure food security and address agricultural challenges in the region.
Correct Answer: Addressing poverty and inequality
Explanation: The primary goal of social development initiatives within SAARC is to address poverty and inequality by promoting social inclusion, improving access to education, healthcare, and other essential services, and empowering marginalized communities.
Correct Answer: SAARC Science and Technology Cooperation Program
Explanation: The SAARC Science and Technology Cooperation Program aims to enhance cooperation among member countries in the field of science and technology to promote innovation, research, and technological advancement in the region.
Correct Answer: Fostering mutual understanding and respect
Explanation: Cultural exchanges within SAARC are significant for fostering mutual understanding and respect among member countries, promoting cultural diversity, and preserving cultural heritage in the region.
Correct Answer: SAARC Environmental Conservation Initiative
Explanation: The SAARC Environmental Conservation Initiative focuses on promoting cooperation among member countries in the field of environmental conservation and sustainable development to address environmental challenges and promote eco-friendly practices.
Correct Answer: Boosting tourism industry and regional integration
Explanation: The primary objective of the SAARC Tourism Development Initiative is to boost the tourism industry and promote regional integration by facilitating tourism-related activities and exchanges among member countries.
Correct Answer: SAARC Disaster Management Program
Explanation: The SAARC Disaster Management Program aims to enhance cooperation among member countries in addressing natural disasters and emergencies by coordinating disaster response efforts, sharing best practices, and building resilience in the region.
Correct Answer: Proliferation of military alliances among member countries
Explanation: Proliferation of military alliances among member countries is not considered an achievement of SAARC in fulfilling its mandate. SAARC primarily focuses on promoting regional cooperation in non-military areas such as trade, culture, and social development.
Correct Answer: Establishment of the SAARC Development Fund
Explanation: One significant achievement of SAARC in the area of trade and economic cooperation is the establishment of the SAARC Development Fund, which provides financial assistance for projects aimed at promoting economic development and poverty alleviation in the region.
Correct Answer: Lack of political will among member countries
Explanation: Lack of political will among member countries is a significant challenge faced by SAARC in fulfilling its mandate, as it can hinder decision-making processes and implementation of cooperative initiatives.
Correct Answer: Launch of the SAARC Air Connectivity Program
Explanation: SAARC has made an achievement in promoting regional connectivity and infrastructure development through the launch of the SAARC Air Connectivity Program, aimed at enhancing air travel and tourism within the region.
Correct Answer: SAARC Social Charter
Explanation: The SAARC Social Charter aims to address the challenge of poverty and inequality in the region by promoting social inclusion, human rights, and equitable development among member countries.
Correct Answer: Inadequate enforcement mechanisms and follow-up mechanisms
Explanation: SAARC faces a challenge in effectively implementing its agreements and initiatives due to inadequate enforcement mechanisms and follow-up mechanisms, which can lead to delays and inefficiencies in implementation.
Correct Answer: Launch of the SAARC Film Festival
Explanation: SAARC has made an achievement in the area of cultural cooperation and exchanges through the launch of the SAARC Film Festival, which promotes cultural diversity and mutual understanding among member countries.
Correct Answer: SAARC Environment and Climate Change Initiative
Explanation: The SAARC Environment and Climate Change Initiative aims to address the challenge of environmental degradation and climate change by promoting cooperation among member countries in implementing environmental conservation measures and adapting to climate change impacts.
Correct Answer: Geopolitical rivalries and conflicts
Explanation: SAARC faces a challenge in fostering trust and cooperation among member countries due to geopolitical rivalries and conflicts, which can hinder collaborative efforts and decision-making processes within the organization.
Correct Answer: Implementation of the SAARC Social Charter
Explanation: An achievement of SAARC in promoting social development and human rights is the implementation of the SAARC Social Charter, which outlines principles and commitments for social justice, equality, and human dignity among member countries.
Correct Answer: Implementation of military alliances
Explanation: Implementation of military alliances is not a key component of SAARC summits and ministerial meetings, which primarily focus on discussing regional issues, cooperation, and adopting joint declarations.
Correct Answer: Annually
Explanation: SAARC summits are typically held annually, providing member countries with a platform to discuss regional cooperation and address common challenges.