Question

Permanent Secretariat to coordinate the implementation of SAARC programme is located at

• A. Dhaka
• B. Kathmandu
• C. Colombo
• D. New Delhi

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1 — Understand the question:
The question asks: "Permanent Secretariat to coordinate the implementation of SAARC programme is located at?"
This requires us to recall the headquarters of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), an organization of South Asian nations working together for regional development, peace, and cooperation.

Step 2 — About SAARC:
- SAARC was established in 1985 with the signing of the SAARC Charter in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
- Its member countries are: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
- The main objectives include promoting welfare of South Asians, improving quality of life, accelerating economic growth, and strengthening collective self-reliance among member nations.

Step 3 — Role of the SAARC Secretariat:
To ensure smooth functioning and coordination of SAARC programmes, a Permanent Secretariat was established. This body is responsible for:
- Coordinating different regional projects and activities.
- Facilitating cooperation between member states.
- Preparing documents, reports, and agendas for SAARC meetings.
- Monitoring the implementation of decisions taken at SAARC Summits.

Step 4 — Location of the Secretariat:
The Permanent SAARC Secretariat was formally inaugurated in January 1987 at Kathmandu, Nepal. Since then, it has been the central administrative office of the SAARC organisation.

Step 5 — Final conclusion:
Thus, the Permanent Secretariat to coordinate the implementation of SAARC programmes is located at Kathmandu, Nepal.

Answer: The correct option is (B) : Kathmandu.