Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Explained
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a Eurasian political, economic and security organisation founded in 2001, headquartered in Beijing.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a Eurasian political, economic and security organisation founded in 2001, headquartered in Beijing.
Members and focus
The SCO focuses on regional security, counter-terrorism and economic cooperation across Eurasia. India became a full member in 2017. It has a Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS).
Significance
The SCO covers a vast area and population, and gives India a platform to engage Central Asia, Russia and China on security and connectivity.
Why it matters for UPSC
India's SCO membership, RATS and the grouping's Eurasian security focus are common IR current-affairs points.
Practise related UPSC PYQs
See how this topic has actually been asked. Solve real UPSC Prelims previous year questions with answers and explanations — free.
Practise PYQs →Frequently asked questions
When did India become a full member of the SCO?
In 2017.
What is RATS in the SCO?
The Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure, which coordinates counter-terrorism cooperation.