Explanation

• The Headquarters of SAARC is located in Kathmandu, Nepal.
• Full Form: South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
• Founded: 8 December 1985
• Founding place: Dhaka, Bangladesh

SAARC Member Countries:

1. Afghanistan
2. Bangladesh
3. Bhutan
4. India
5. Maldives
6. Nepal
7. Pakistan
8. Sri Lanka

Last updated by NA on 14-09-2026

Explanation

• Afghanistan became SAARC’s 8th member in 2007 at the 14th SAARC Summit in New Delhi, India.

Additional information:

• SAARC was established on 8 December 1985 in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
• Its founding members were Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
• SAARC’s Secretariat is located in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• NDCs are national climate action plans submitted by countries under the Paris Agreement.
• Countries outline their targets and measures for reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and adapting to climate change.
• Under the Paris Agreement, countries must communicate updated NDCs every five years, reflecting progression and their highest possible ambition.
• The Paris Agreement aims to keep global warming well below 2°C and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• The Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997 and entered into force on 16 February 2005 under the UNFCCC.
• It followed Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), requiring developed countries to lead emission reductions due to their historical emissions and greater resources.
• It set legally binding greenhouse-gas reduction targets for developed countries and economies in transition, not the same targets for all developing countries.
• First commitment period: 2008–2012.
• Second commitment period: 2013–2020, under the Doha Amendment.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a regional intergovernmental organisation focused on security, economic cooperation, and regional stability.
• India and Pakistan both became full members of the SCO in 2017.
• The SCO was founded in 2001 in Shanghai, China.

Last verified on 21-10-2026