SAARC provides a platform for the peoples of South Asia to work together in a spirit of friendship, trust and understanding. What is its stated aim?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → To accelerate the process of economic and social development in member countries
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a group of eight South Asian countries. Its aim is to accelerate economic and social development in its member countries.
Option (1) To bring together finance ministers and central bank governors for global economic stability — Incorrect. This describes the G-20, a forum for global economic stability and sustainable growth.
Option (2) To hold an annual summit of the heads of government of the eight largest industrial nations — Incorrect. An annual summit of heads of government is the hallmark of the G-8.
Option (3) To set up special economic zones with laws different from those of member countries — Incorrect. A special economic zone is a region within one country with its own economic laws; it is not a grouping’s aim.
Option (4) To accelerate the process of economic and social development in member countries — Correct. This is SAARC’s stated aim.
NCERT (2026-27): Glossary: “South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation – (SAARC) : It is an association of eight countries of South Asia — Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. SAARC provides a platform for the peoples of South Asia to work together in a spirit of friendship, trust and understanding. It aims to accelerate the process of economic and social development in member countries.” Glossary: “G-20 – A forum of countries that intents to promote global economic stability and sustainable growth. This forum brings together finance ministers and central bank governors from 19 countries …” Glossary: “G-8 – The Group of Eight (G-8) consists of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the United States of America, and Russian Federation. The hallmark of the G-8 is an annual economic and political summit meeting of the heads of government with international officials, though there are numerous subsidiary meetings and policy research. …” |