Which of the following are the objectives of SAARC?

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established in 1985 with its objectives explicitly defined in Article I of the SAARC Charter [1]. These objectives include promoting the welfare of the peoples of South Asia and improving their quality of life [1]. Additionally, the Charter aims to promote and strengthen collective self-reliance among the member nations [1]. Another core objective is to contribute to mutual trust, understanding, and appreciation of one another's problems [1]. While SAARC encourages cooperation in areas like anti-terrorism and narcotics control [1], 'ending cross-border terrorism' is not listed as a formal objective in the Charter. Instead, the organization focuses on core issues like agriculture, rural development, and economic growth while avoiding divisive political issues [1]. Therefore, only statements 1, 2, and 3 are official objectives of SAARC.

Sources

1. [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 16: India–Political Aspects > GEOPOLITICS OF SOUTH ASIA > p. 60