Correct Answer: New Delhi Summit (2007)
Explanation: The New Delhi Summit in 2007 marked the formal launch of the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA), aiming to promote trade and economic cooperation among SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: Discussing specific issues and preparing agendas for SAARC summits
Explanation: The primary purpose of SAARC ministerial meetings is to discuss specific issues, review progress on regional cooperation initiatives, and prepare agendas for SAARC summits.
Correct Answer: Dhaka Summit (2005)
Explanation: The Dhaka Summit was held in Bangladesh in 2005, providing a platform for member countries to discuss regional cooperation and issues of mutual concern.
Correct Answer: Discussing regional cooperation initiatives and preparing for SAARC summits
Explanation: SAARC ministerial meetings are significant for discussing regional cooperation initiatives, reviewing progress, and preparing agendas for SAARC summits, fostering collaboration among member countries.
Correct Answer: Colombo Summit (1991)
Explanation: The Colombo Summit was held in Sri Lanka in 1991, providing member countries with an opportunity to discuss regional cooperation and issues affecting the South Asian region.
Correct Answer: Fostering mutual understanding and cooperation among member countries
Explanation: SAARC summits play a key role in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation among member countries by providing a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and decision-making on regional issues.
Correct Answer: First Summit (1985)
Explanation: The First SAARC Summit in 1985 saw the signing of the SAARC Charter, marking the formal establishment of the organization and outlining its objectives and principles.
Correct Answer: Adoption of joint declarations
Explanation: The primary outcome of SAARC ministerial meetings is the adoption of joint declarations, which outline agreements, commitments, and action plans for regional cooperation among member countries.
Correct Answer: “Connectivity for Shared Prosperity”
Explanation: The theme of the 18th SAARC Summit held in Kathmandu, Nepal, in 2014 was “Connectivity for Shared Prosperity,” focusing on enhancing regional connectivity and cooperation for the mutual benefit of SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: Islamabad Summit
Explanation: The Islamabad Summit in 2004 emphasized the theme of “Deeper Integration for Peace and Prosperity,” highlighting the importance of regional integration and cooperation for fostering peace and prosperity in South Asia.
Correct Answer: “Strengthening SAARC Cooperation”
Explanation: The theme of the 17th SAARC Summit held in Addu City, Maldives, in 2011 was “Strengthening SAARC Cooperation,” focusing on enhancing cooperation among member countries to address common challenges and promote regional development.
Correct Answer: Dhaka Summit
Explanation: The Dhaka Summit in 2008 focused on the theme of “Deepening Regional Integration,” emphasizing the importance of strengthening economic, social, and cultural ties among SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: “Building Bridges”
Explanation: The theme of the 16th SAARC Summit held in Thimphu, Bhutan, in 2010 was “Building Bridges,” emphasizing the need to strengthen connectivity and cooperation among SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: Colombo Summit
Explanation: The Colombo Summit in 2005 focused on the theme of “Deeper Integration for Peace and Prosperity,” highlighting the importance of regional integration and cooperation for promoting peace and prosperity in South Asia.
Correct Answer: “Towards a Better South Asia”
Explanation: The theme of the 15th SAARC Summit held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in 2008 was “Towards a Better South Asia,” focusing on advancing cooperation and addressing challenges for the betterment of the region.
Correct Answer: Dhaka Summit
Explanation: The Dhaka Summit in 2003 emphasized the theme of “Strengthening Regional Cooperation,” highlighting the importance of enhancing cooperation among SAARC member countries to address common challenges and promote regional development.
Correct Answer: “Building Bridges”
Explanation: The theme of the 14th SAARC Summit held in New Delhi, India, in 2007 was “Building Bridges,” focusing on enhancing connectivity and cooperation among SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: Islamabad Summit
Explanation: The Islamabad Summit in 2002 focused on the theme of “Towards a Dynamic and Prosperous South Asia,” highlighting the collective efforts needed to achieve dynamism and prosperity in the region.
Correct Answer: Dhaka Summit (2005)
Explanation: The Dhaka Summit in 2005 resulted in the signing of the SAARC Free Trade Area (SAFTA) Agreement, aiming to promote trade and economic cooperation among SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: Dhaka Declaration on Terrorism
Explanation: The Dhaka Declaration on Terrorism emerged from the 13th SAARC Summit held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in 2005, reaffirming the commitment of SAARC member countries to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
Correct Answer: Islamabad Summit
Explanation: The Islamabad Summit in 2004 resulted in the adoption of the SAARC Social Charter, which outlines principles and commitments for social justice, equality, and human dignity among SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: Thimphu Declaration on Climate Change
Explanation: The Thimphu Declaration on Climate Change was adopted at the 16th SAARC Summit held in Thimphu, Bhutan, in 2010, emphasizing the importance of addressing climate change challenges in the South Asian region.
Correct Answer: Kathmandu Declaration on Peace and Security
Explanation: The Kathmandu Declaration on Peace and Security emerged from the 11th SAARC Summit held in Kathmandu, Nepal, in 2002, reaffirming the commitment of SAARC member countries to promote peace, stability, and security in the region.
Correct Answer: Dhaka Summit
Explanation: The Dhaka Summit in 1987 resulted in the adoption of the SAARC Regional Convention on Suppression of Terrorism and its Additional Protocol, demonstrating the commitment of SAARC member countries to combat terrorism in the region.
Correct Answer: Male Declaration on Democracy and Good Governance
Explanation: The Male Declaration on Democracy and Good Governance was adopted at the 10th SAARC Summit held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in 1998, emphasizing the importance of democracy and good governance in the South Asian region.
Correct Answer: New Delhi Summit
Explanation: The New Delhi Summit in 2007 resulted in the establishment of the SAARC Food Bank, aiming to address food security challenges in the South Asian region.
Correct Answer: Islamabad Declaration on Strengthening Democracy
Explanation: The Islamabad Declaration on Strengthening Democracy emerged from the 12th SAARC Summit held in Islamabad, Pakistan, in 2004, reaffirming the commitment of SAARC member countries to democratic principles and institutions.
Correct Answer: Kathmandu Summit
Explanation: The Kathmandu Summit in 2014 resulted in the adoption of the SAARC Framework Agreement for Energy Cooperation (Electricity), aiming to promote regional energy cooperation and address energy challenges in the South Asian region.
Correct Answer: Facilitating coordination and cooperation among SAARC member countries
Explanation: The primary function of the SAARC Secretariat is to facilitate coordination and cooperation among SAARC member countries by providing administrative support, organizing meetings, and implementing decisions taken by SAARC bodies.
Correct Answer: Kathmandu, Nepal
Explanation: The headquarters of the SAARC Secretariat is located in Kathmandu, Nepal, serving as the central administrative hub for SAARC activities and initiatives.
Correct Answer: SAARC Summit
Explanation: The Secretary-General of the SAARC Secretariat is appointed by the SAARC Summit, consisting of the heads of state or government of SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: Five years
Explanation: The term of office for the Secretary-General of the SAARC Secretariat is five years, with the possibility of reappointment for one additional term.
Correct Answer: Providing legal advice to member countries
Explanation: Providing legal advice to member countries is not a role of the SAARC Secretariat. Its primary functions include implementing decisions, serving as an information hub, and organizing SAARC meetings and events.
Correct Answer: Facilitating discussions and providing administrative support
Explanation: The role of the Secretary-General in SAARC meetings is to facilitate discussions, provide administrative support, and ensure the smooth functioning of the meetings.
Correct Answer: SAARC Standing Committee
Explanation: The SAARC Standing Committee oversees the functioning of the SAARC Secretariat, providing guidance and direction to ensure effective implementation of SAARC initiatives and decisions.
Correct Answer: Serving as the chief administrative officer of the Secretariat
Explanation: The primary responsibility of the Secretary-General is to serve as the chief administrative officer of the SAARC Secretariat, overseeing its day-to-day operations and implementing decisions taken by SAARC bodies.
Correct Answer: Facilitating communication and coordination
Explanation: The SAARC Secretariat plays a crucial role in fostering cooperation among member countries by facilitating communication, coordination, and collaboration on various regional issues and initiatives.
Correct Answer: By providing access to information and documentation on SAARC activities
Explanation: The SAARC Secretariat promotes transparency within the organization by providing access to information and documentation on SAARC activities, ensuring member countries are well-informed about decisions and initiatives.
Correct Answer: SAARC Council of Ministers
Explanation: The SAARC Council of Ministers is the highest decision-making body of SAARC, consisting of foreign ministers or relevant ministers of member countries.
Correct Answer: Implementing decisions taken by the SAARC Council of Ministers
Explanation: The SAARC Standing Committee is responsible for implementing decisions taken by the SAARC Council of Ministers and providing guidance on matters related to regional cooperation.
Correct Answer: SAARC Technical Committee
Explanation: The SAARC Technical Committee is responsible for coordinating sectoral activities, preparing agendas for SAARC meetings, and providing technical support to member countries.
Correct Answer: Facilitating coordination and cooperation among member countries
Explanation: The SAARC Secretariat plays a key role in facilitating coordination and cooperation among member countries by providing administrative support, organizing meetings, and implementing decisions taken by SAARC bodies.
Correct Answer: SAARC Standing Committee
Explanation: The SAARC Standing Committee is responsible for overseeing the implementation of SAARC programs and projects, ensuring that decisions taken by the SAARC Council of Ministers are effectively carried out.
Correct Answer: Coordinating sectoral activities and preparing agendas for SAARC meetings
Explanation: The primary function of the SAARC Technical Committee is to coordinate sectoral activities, prepare agendas for SAARC meetings, and provide technical support to member countries on various regional issues.
Correct Answer: SAARC Technical Committee
Explanation: The SAARC Technical Committee is responsible for formulating policies and strategies to promote regional cooperation in specific sectors, such as agriculture, health, and education.
Correct Answer: Technical experts nominated by SAARC member countries
Explanation: The SAARC Technical Committee is composed of technical experts nominated by SAARC member countries, representing various sectors and disciplines relevant to regional cooperation.
Correct Answer: SAARC Standing Committee
Explanation: The SAARC Standing Committee is responsible for coordinating the activities of specialized centers and regional institutions affiliated with SAARC, ensuring coherence and synergy in regional cooperation efforts.
Correct Answer: Formulating policies and strategies for regional cooperation
Explanation: The SAARC Council of Ministers is responsible for formulating policies and strategies for regional cooperation, guiding the overall direction of SAARC initiatives, and making key decisions on behalf of member countries.
Correct Answer: Military alliances and security agreements
Explanation: Military alliances and security agreements are not priority areas of cooperation under SAARC. SAARC primarily focuses on economic, social, and environmental cooperation among member countries.
Correct Answer: Ensuring food security and agricultural development
Explanation: One of the key objectives of SAARC’s cooperation in the field of agriculture is to ensure food security and promote agricultural development among member countries.
Correct Answer: SAARC Preferential Trading Arrangement (SAPTA)
Explanation: The SAARC Preferential Trading Arrangement (SAPTA) aims to enhance connectivity and promote economic integration among member countries by reducing trade barriers and facilitating preferential trade agreements.
Correct Answer: Achieving universal healthcare coverage and addressing public health challenges
Explanation: The primary objective of SAARC’s cooperation in the field of health is to achieve universal healthcare coverage and address public health challenges facing the South Asian region.
Correct Answer: SAARC Consortium on Open and Distance Learning (SOCODL)
Explanation: The SAARC Consortium on Open and Distance Learning (SOCODL) focuses on promoting regional cooperation in the field of education by facilitating collaboration among educational institutions in member countries.
Correct Answer: SAARC Framework Agreement for Energy Cooperation (Electricity)
Explanation: The SAARC Framework Agreement for Energy Cooperation (Electricity) aims to strengthen regional cooperation in the field of energy by promoting cross-border electricity trade and collaboration on energy-related projects.
Correct Answer: Achieving sustainable development and addressing environmental challenges
Explanation: The primary objective of SAARC’s cooperation in the field of environment is to achieve sustainable development and address environmental challenges facing the South Asian region.
Correct Answer: SAARC Road Safety Action Plan (SRSAP)
Explanation: The SAARC Road Safety Action Plan (SRSAP) focuses on promoting regional cooperation in the field of transportation and connectivity by addressing road safety issues and improving road infrastructure in member countries.
Correct Answer: Achieving regional economic integration and facilitating trade among member countries
Explanation: The primary objective of SAARC’s cooperation in the field of trade and economic integration is to achieve regional economic integration and facilitate trade among member countries to promote economic growth and development in the South Asian region.
Correct Answer: SAARC Framework Agreement for Energy Cooperation (Electricity)
Explanation: The SAARC Framework Agreement for Energy Cooperation (Electricity) aims to enhance regional connectivity and promote economic integration among member countries by facilitating cross-border electricity trade and collaboration on energy-related projects.
Correct Answer: SAARC Disaster Management Centre (SDMC)
Explanation: The SAARC Disaster Management Centre (SDMC) focuses on promoting cooperation in the field of disaster management and emergency response among member countries, facilitating coordination and sharing of resources during times of crisis.
Correct Answer: SAARC Environment Programme (SEP)
Explanation: The SAARC Environment Programme (SEP) aims to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development in the region by facilitating cooperation among member countries on environmental conservation and management.
Correct Answer: SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC)
Explanation: The SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) focuses on promoting regional cooperation in the field of agriculture and rural development by facilitating knowledge sharing, research, and capacity building among member countries.
Correct Answer: SAARC Consortium on Open and Distance Learning (SOCODL)
Explanation: The SAARC Consortium on Open and Distance Learning (SOCODL) aims to promote regional cooperation in the field of education and human resource development by facilitating collaboration among educational institutions and promoting open and distance learning initiatives.
Correct Answer: SAARC Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS Centre (STAC)
Explanation: The SAARC Tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS Centre (STAC) focuses on promoting regional cooperation in the field of health and combating communicable diseases by facilitating research, capacity building, and information sharing among member countries.
Correct Answer: SAARC Framework Agreement for Energy Cooperation (Electricity)
Explanation: The SAARC Framework Agreement for Energy Cooperation (Electricity) aims to promote regional cooperation in the field of energy and address energy security challenges by facilitating cross-border electricity trade and collaboration on energy-related projects.
Correct Answer: SAARC Tourism Centre (STC)
Explanation: The SAARC Tourism Centre (STC) focuses on promoting regional cooperation in the field of tourism and enhancing cultural exchanges among member countries by facilitating tourism development initiatives and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Correct Answer: SAARC Preferential Trading Arrangement (SAPTA)
Explanation: The SAARC Preferential Trading Arrangement (SAPTA) aims to promote regional cooperation in the field of trade and economic integration by reducing trade barriers and facilitating preferential trade agreements among member countries.
Correct Answer: SAARC Science and Technology Centre (SSTC)
Explanation: The SAARC Science and Technology Centre (SSTC) focuses on promoting regional cooperation in the field of science and technology by facilitating research, innovation, and technology transfer among member countries.
Correct Answer: Achieving economic cooperation and integration among member countries
Explanation: One of the primary objectives of SAARC is to achieve economic cooperation and integration among member countries to promote regional development and prosperity.
Correct Answer: By facilitating dialogue, cooperation, and collaboration on various regional issues
Explanation: SAARC contributes to promoting regional cooperation among member countries by facilitating dialogue, cooperation, and collaboration on various regional issues such as trade, environment, and security.
Correct Answer: SAARC Council of Ministers
Explanation: The SAARC Council of Ministers serves as a platform for member countries to discuss and address regional challenges and opportunities, providing guidance and direction to SAARC initiatives.
Correct Answer: Facilitating cross-border trade agreements and reducing trade barriers
Explanation: SAARC plays a role in promoting trade and economic cooperation among member countries by facilitating cross-border trade agreements, reducing trade barriers, and promoting regional economic integration.
Correct Answer: SAARC Road Safety Action Plan (SRSAP)
Explanation: The SAARC Road Safety Action Plan (SRSAP) aims to promote regional cooperation in the field of transportation and connectivity by addressing road safety issues and improving road infrastructure in member countries.
Correct Answer: By facilitating cooperation and collaboration among member countries on environmental conservation and management
Explanation: SAARC contributes to addressing environmental challenges in the region by facilitating cooperation and collaboration among member countries on environmental conservation and management initiatives.
Correct Answer: Facilitating cultural exchanges, dialogue, and cooperation
Explanation: SAARC plays a role in promoting cultural exchanges and understanding among member countries by facilitating cultural exchanges, dialogue, and cooperation to foster mutual respect and appreciation of cultural diversity.
Correct Answer: SAARC Standing Committee
Explanation: The SAARC Standing Committee is responsible for overseeing the implementation of SAARC programs and initiatives, ensuring that decisions taken by the SAARC Council of Ministers are effectively carried out.
Correct Answer: By facilitating dialogue, cooperation, and confidence-building measures among member countries
Explanation: SAARC contributes to promoting regional peace and stability by facilitating dialogue, cooperation, and confidence-building measures among member countries to address common security challenges and build trust and understanding.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Political tensions, inadequate infrastructure, and trade barriers are some of the challenges hindering regional connectivity within SAARC.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Enhancing regional connectivity benefits SAARC member countries by promoting economic growth, facilitating trade and investment, and fostering cultural exchanges and tourism.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Road networks, railways, ports, and other transportation infrastructure are essential for enhancing regional connectivity within SAARC.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: SAARC member countries can address the challenge of inadequate infrastructure by investing in development projects, implementing cross-border initiatives, and promoting public-private partnerships.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Trade agreements and economic cooperation frameworks play a vital role in enhancing regional connectivity within SAARC by facilitating trade and investment, promoting policy harmonization, and reducing trade barriers.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Geographic proximity, increasing demand for cross-border trade, and technological advancements present opportunities for enhancing regional connectivity within SAARC.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: SAARC member countries can overcome political tensions by promoting dialogue, prioritizing economic cooperation, and addressing security concerns through diplomatic channels.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Regional organizations and multilateral initiatives can play a crucial role in enhancing connectivity within SAARC by providing assistance, facilitating cooperation, and promoting policy harmonization.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: SAARC member countries can leverage digital technologies to enhance regional connectivity by promoting e-commerce, improving digital infrastructure, and enhancing digital literacy and skills development.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: Cross-border trade and investment within SAARC face challenges such as tariffs, customs procedures, infrastructure bottlenecks, and logistical challenges.
Correct Answer: India and Pakistan
Explanation: India and Pakistan have historically experienced significant tensions over territorial disputes, particularly regarding the region of Kashmir.
Correct Answer: Nepal
Explanation: Nepal has a special relationship with India due to shared cultural, historical, and economic ties, as well as geographic proximity.
Correct Answer: Bangladesh
Explanation: Bangladesh shares maritime boundaries with both India and Sri Lanka, which provides opportunities for trilateral cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
Correct Answer: Pakistan
Explanation: Pakistan has historically maintained close economic and cultural ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, particularly due to the large Pakistani diaspora in the Gulf region.
Correct Answer: Bhutan
Explanation: Bhutan has traditionally been a major recipient of development assistance from India, reflecting the close bilateral relations between the two countries.
Correct Answer: Sri Lanka
Explanation: Sri Lanka has historical ties with China and has received significant Chinese investment in infrastructure projects, which has influenced its bilateral relations with other SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: Bangladesh
Explanation: Bangladesh has maritime disputes with India over the demarcation of maritime boundaries in the Bay of Bengal, which has implications for bilateral relations between the two countries.
Correct Answer: Pakistan
Explanation: Pakistan shares a border with China and has been involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, which has implications for its bilateral relations with other SAARC member countries.
Correct Answer: Maldives
Explanation: Maldives has historically maintained close ties with India but has recently faced strains in bilateral relations due to geopolitical shifts and the influence of external powers in the Indian Ocean region.
Correct Answer: Sri Lanka
Explanation: Sri Lanka has sought to strengthen its ties with both India and China through the “neighbourhood first” and “string of pearls” strategies, which has implications for its bilateral relations within the SAARC region.
Correct Answer: SAARC facilitates dialogue and promotes confidence-building measures
Explanation: SAARC’s primary role in resolving bilateral disputes and conflicts among member countries is to facilitate dialogue and promote confidence-building measures to foster peaceful resolutions.
Correct Answer: SAARC Regional Convention on Suppression of Terrorism
Explanation: The SAARC Regional Convention on Suppression of Terrorism is specifically designed to address political and security-related issues among member countries, particularly in combating terrorism and promoting regional security cooperation.
Correct Answer: By facilitating dialogue and mediation efforts
Explanation: SAARC contributes to de-escalating tensions and promoting peaceful resolutions in bilateral disputes by facilitating dialogue and mediation efforts among member countries.
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation: SAARC faces challenges in effectively resolving bilateral disputes and conflicts among member countries due to political sensitivities, limited institutional capacity, and external interference and influence.