SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme

Current context: The Indian government has barred Pakistani nationals from availing benefits under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation. SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES), citing security and diplomatic concerns.

Key Highlights:

Launched: 1992.

• Objective: To allow visa-free travel within SAARC nations for select categories of people such as dignitaries, officials, and business leaders.
• Mechanism: Eligible individuals receive SAARC Visa Stickers, valid for one year, issued by respective member countries.
• Privileges: Exempts sticker holders from needing a visa or facing travel restrictions, such as police reporting or filling extra entry forms across SAARC nations.
• India’s Decision:Pakistan nationals are now excluded from traveling to India under this scheme.

About SAARC:

• Established: December 8, 1985, in Dhaka.
• Members (8): Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
• Purpose: Promote regional cooperation and economic integration in South Asia.