Borders: The main barrier to South Asian integration

SAARC has fallen far short of its goals mainly due to the enduring hostility between India and Pakistan that hampers the economic integration of the subcontinent. In reaction to the frustrating paralysis, the Narendra Modi government has given priority to other regional groupings like ASEAN, BBIN, BIMSTEC, BRICS, IORA, etc while other SAARC members seek alliances with China, the Middle East and Western powers to the detriment of the region's stability. This paper argues that in view of their consanguinity, shared history and cultural affinity SAARC members are fated to cooperate, in spite of the artificial, colonially drawn borders, which separate them. Their prosperity and security depend upon their ability to rise above differences and animosities but India must work to win and deserve the trust of its smaller neighbours.