Following a tragic terror attack in Pahalgam that resulted in 26 casualties, the Government of India has taken decisive measures against Pakistani nationals. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has announced a suspension of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistanis. This decision entails the cancellation of all previously issued SVES visas. Pakistani nationals currently in India under this scheme must leave within 48 hours. Furthermore, the CCS has declared defence, Navy, and Air advisors from the Pakistani High Commission as persona non grata, requiring their departure within a week. In a reciprocal action, India will also withdraw its own military advisors from Islamabad.
About the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme
The SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme was initiated in 1992. It emerged from decisions made during the Fourth SAARC Summit in Islamabad in 1988. This scheme allows certain dignitaries from SAARC member countries to travel without a visa. Currently, it covers 24 categories of individuals. These include judges, parliamentarians, senior officials, businessmen, journalists, and sportspersons.
SAARC
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established on December 8, 1985, in Dhaka. It comprises eight member states – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The organisation aims to promote regional cooperation in various fields, including economic development, cultural exchange, and social progress.
Visa Stickers and Their Validity
SAARC visa stickers are issued by member states to eligible individuals. These stickers generally have a validity of one year. They allow travel across SAARC countries without the need for additional permissions or police reporting. This facilitates smoother movement for dignitaries and reduces bureaucratic hurdles.
Regular Reviews and Implementation
The implementation of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme is regularly reviewed by the immigration authorities of member states. This ensures that the scheme remains effective and relevant to current diplomatic relations and security concerns.
Broader Cooperation Initiatives
In addition to the visa exemption, SAARC countries engage in various cooperative initiatives. These include internship programmes for academia, efforts in poverty alleviation, tourism development, and agricultural cooperation. Such initiatives aim to strengthen ties among member states and promote regional stability.
Impact of Recent Developments
The recent suspension of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme marks the deteriorating relations between India and Pakistan. It signifies a shift in diplomatic engagement and raises questions about the future of regional cooperation. The actions taken indicate a strong stance against terrorism and a commitment to national security.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the implications of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme on regional cooperation in South Asia.
- Critically discuss the historical context and significance of the SAARC organisation in promoting peace in South Asia.
- Analyse the role of diplomatic measures in addressing terrorism in South Asia. What are their limitations?
- Point out the challenges faced by SAARC in achieving its objectives amidst rising tensions among member states.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the implications of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme on regional cooperation in South Asia.
- Facilitates movement of dignitaries, enhancing diplomatic ties.
- Promotes cultural exchange and collaboration among member states.
- Strengthens economic cooperation through easier business interactions.
- Potentially undermined by political tensions, as seen with Pakistan’s suspension.
- May lead to isolation of certain countries if revoked or restricted.
2. Critically discuss the historical context and significance of the SAARC organisation in promoting peace in South Asia.
- Established in 1985 to encourage regional cooperation among South Asian nations.
- Focuses on socio-economic development and cultural exchange to build trust.
- Has facilitated dialogue on critical issues like poverty alleviation and trade.
- Challenges include historical conflicts, notably between India and Pakistan.
- Significance lies in its potential to mediate disputes and promote stability.
3. Analyse the role of diplomatic measures in addressing terrorism in South Asia. What are their limitations?
- Diplomatic measures can lead to dialogue and cooperation against terrorism.
- Encourages sharing of intelligence and best practices among nations.
- Can impose sanctions or restrictions on nations harboring terrorists.
- Limitations include lack of trust and differing national interests among states.
- May not address root causes of terrorism, such as socio-economic issues.
4. Point out the challenges faced by SAARC in achieving its objectives amidst rising tensions among member states.
- Political tensions hinder collaborative initiatives and effectiveness.
- Conflicts, especially between India and Pakistan, disrupt consensus-building.
- Economic disparities among members affect equitable participation.
- Limited funding and resources for projects undermine implementation.
- Global geopolitical shifts can overshadow regional priorities and cooperation.
