Integration initiatives in South Asia

Abstract

Since the 1980s, integration initiatives in the South Asian region have been institutionalized with the establishment of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). In the current context, the trends and dynamics of regional integration in South Asia have evolved, leading to the formation of additional initiatives. The paper aimed to provide an overview of some key integration initiatives in South Asia. At the same time, the theory of inter-governmentalism is applied to examine how national interests present challenges to the integration process. The paper affirmed that regional initiatives in South Asia have fostered integration through trade liberalization, security cooperation, health initiatives, and people-to-people exchanges. Among these initiatives, India plays a crucial role in the regional integration process, but it also faces numerous challenges in sustaining its influence and position in South Asia.