Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests
2. By actively engaging in SAARC, India can promote economic opportunities, stability, connectivity, and regional cooperation, ultimately benefiting not only India but the entire South Asian region. Critically Analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the future of SAARC amidst current uncertainties and to argue for its revival.
Directive word:
Critically analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context of SAARC and its present-day scenario.
Body:
In the first part, bring out the current uncertainties which forebode a bleak future for SAARC – Crisis in Afghanistan, Myanmar, Indo-Pak equation, Covid crisis etc.
Next, mention as to why India should take the lead in reviving SAARC. It will ensure integrated, connected, secure and prosperous South Asia, and lead economic, technological, cultural, and social development’ of the region.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward and diplomatic steps needed to re-engage and revive SAARC.
