Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: China
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question checks awareness of regional groupings, specifically the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, commonly known as SAARC. Knowing which countries are members and which are not is a frequent requirement in general awareness sections for competitive exams.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
SAARC is a regional organisation established in 1985 to promote cooperation among South Asian countries. Its member states are Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. China has observer status in SAARC but is not a full member. Since Nepal, Maldives and Afghanistan are full members, the only non member in the options is China.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
As a quick check, remember that SAARC is focused strictly on South Asia. China is geographically a large neighbour but is generally associated with broader groupings such as Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or BRICS, not SAARC membership. Many exam guides clearly mention that China is an observer state in SAARC but not a full member, which confirms this answer.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Nepal: It is a founding member of SAARC and often hosts SAARC meetings.
Maldives: It is a small island state but a full SAARC member.
Afghanistan: It became a member in 2007 and participates fully in SAARC activities.
Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes think Afghanistan is not a member because it joined later, or they may assume that China is included because of its strong regional influence. It is important to memorise the exact list of eight SAARC member states and to distinguish between full members and observer countries such as China, Iran and the European Union.
Final Answer:
The country that is not a member of SAARC is China.
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