2022 · GS Paper 2 · Q10 · 10 marks
Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC ? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two ? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation ?
In short
BIMSTEC is less a parallel SAARC than a complementary, sector-led body that bridges South and Southeast Asia without Pakistan's veto, serving Neighbourhood First and Act East. Both share consensus decision-making, five common members and single-digit intra-regional trade shares.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 319 words
Overlapping core
Five members are common to both, both decide by consensus, and India dominates each economically.
Shared weakness
Intra-regional trade is stuck in single digits as a share of total trade in both, far below ASEAN's, and BIMSTEC's 2004 FTA framework is still not concluded.
Different logic
SAARC is a geographic club held hostage by India-Pakistan hostility; BIMSTEC is sector-led and bridges South and Southeast Asia.
Neighbourhood First without veto
India invited BIMSTEC leaders to the 2016 BRICS outreach in Goa, weeks after Uri, sidelining Pakistan's obstruction.
Act East land bridge
The 2022 Master Plan for Transport Connectivity, the Kaladan project and the Trilateral Highway link the Northeast to Southeast Asia.
Maritime security
India leads the security pillar, and the 2025 Maritime Transport Cooperation Agreement advances its SAGAR vision in the Bay.
Balancing China
Closer ties with Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Myanmar offer an alternative to Belt and Road dependence.
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2022 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.