Hindu Editorial Analysis : 11-May-2023
The year 2023 holds great importance for India as it plays host to several global events, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. The SCO is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising eight member states, primarily located in Eurasia. In this essay, we will explore the significance of the SCO for India and the opportunities and challenges it presents.
Varanasi – Cultural and Tourism Capital of SCO
Varanasi, the holy city of India, has been designated as the first “Cultural and Tourism Capital” of the SCO for 2022-23. This initiative aims to promote people-to-people contacts and tourism among the member states. The title of ‘Cultural and Tourism Capital’ will be rotated among the member states, showcasing their respective cultures and traditions.
Security Cooperation
The Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) established by the SCO can help India enhance its counterterrorism abilities. By facilitating intelligence sharing, law enforcement cooperation, and the development of best practices and technologies, the SCO can contribute to combating terrorism. Additionally, the SCO provides a platform for India to address issues such as anti-drug trafficking and small arms proliferation.
Regional Integration and Geopolitical Advantage
The SCO plays a vital role in achieving regional integration, promoting connectivity, and ensuring stability across borders. It provides India with an opportunity to engage in multilateral talks with both friendly nations like Russia and adversaries like China and Pakistan. Moreover, as Central Asia falls within India’s Extended Neighbourhood, the SCO allows India to pursue its “Connect Central Asian Policy” and counterbalance China’s growing influence in Eurasia.
Opportunities in Trade, Commerce, and Infrastructure Development
The SCO offers significant prospects for India in terms of trade and commerce. India has a keen interest in signing free trade agreements (FTAs) with countries in Eurasia, as they can become long-term partners in sectors such as energy (oil, natural gas) and natural resources (uranium, iron ore, etc.). Exploring new markets within the SCO beyond China, Russia, and Pakistan could benefit India’s trade relations.
The pharmaceutical sector presents a promising opportunity for India. Strengthening ties in the pharmaceutical industry with countries like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan could lead to increased exports. India’s experience in the sector and the geopolitical scenario make pharmaceuticals a viable avenue for market expansion.
Infrastructure development is another area where India can explore opportunities within the SCO. The Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline is one such project that can meet India’s energy needs. Additionally, India can leverage its expertise in setting up hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities in Eurasia through infrastructure initiatives.
Challenges to Overcome
The region’s volatility poses a significant challenge to connectivity projects initiated by SCO member states and other regional countries in Eurasia. A volatile Afghanistan and terror sanctuaries in the Af-Pak region have created bottlenecks that hinder progress in these projects.
Pakistan’s refusal to facilitate connectivity projects has impeded strategic, economic, and cultural interests. The TAPI pipeline, which could address energy needs, has been stalled since 2006 due to instability in Afghanistan and Pakistan’s hindrances.
The illicit drug trade originating from the Af-Pak region is another shared challenge for SCO member states. Afghanistan remains a major source of opium and heroin supplies, with more than 80% of the global opium market affected. The involvement of terrorist groups in the drug trade presents additional geopolitical challenges.
Why In News
The year 2023 holds immense significance for India as it takes center stage by hosting multiple global events, among them being the highly anticipated Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. This prestigious gathering provides India with a platform to showcase its diplomatic prowess and strengthen its position on the global stage.
MCQs about India’s Role in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
-
What is the significance of Varanasi in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)?
A. Varanasi is the headquarters of the SCO.
B. Varanasi is the first “Cultural and Tourism Capital” of the SCO for 2022-23.
C. Varanasi is a prominent economic hub within the SCO.
D. Varanasi is the host city for the SCO summit in 2023.
-
What is the purpose of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) in the SCO?
A. To enhance counterterrorism capabilities through intelligence sharing and law enforcement cooperation.
B. To facilitate trade and commerce among member states.
C. To promote cultural exchanges and tourism initiatives.
D. To improve connectivity and infrastructure development.
-
Which sector presents a promising opportunity for India within the SCO?
A. Energy and natural resources.
B. Information technology and software development.
C. Automotive manufacturing.
D. Textile and apparel industry.
-
What is one of the challenges faced by the SCO region?
A. Lack of cultural diversity.
B. Economic stagnation.
C. Volatility in Afghanistan and terror sanctuaries in the Af-Pak region.
D. Insufficient infrastructure development.
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
