“Increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in India and growing interference in the internal affairs of member-states by Pakistan are not conducive for the future of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation).” Explain with suitable examples. (Not more than 200 words)

SAARC was created to promote regional cooperation in South Asia, but its promise has been constrained by India–Pakistan hostility. Cross-border terrorism and allegations of interference erode trust, obstruct meetings and divert the organisation from development priorities.

Impact on SAARC

• Major attacks attributed to Pakistan-based groups, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the 2016 Uri attack, intensified bilateral tensions and reduced political space for cooperation.
• India's concerns about support to militant groups and interference in neighbours' internal affairs have made security central to regional diplomacy.
• SAARC decisions require consensus; bilateral disputes can therefore delay summits, agreements and connectivity initiatives.
• Weak regional trade and limited people-to-people links impose economic costs on all members.

Future possibilities

• Counter-terror commitments must be implemented credibly, with no tolerance for safe havens or selective enforcement.
• Humanitarian, health, climate, disaster and technical cooperation can preserve functional regionalism even during political crises.
• Subregional initiatives may supplement rather than replace SAARC, but lasting progress needs mutual respect for sovereignty and non-interference.
• Trust-building, sustained dialogue and connectivity are prerequisites for a viable South Asian institution.

Keywords: SAARC; cross-border terrorism; regional cooperation; consensus; non-interference; India–Pakistan relations.