‘Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO’ In the light of the above statement point out the role of India in mitigating the problems.

The ongoing disputes with China and Pakistan :

(1) With China, India is having the tensions at borders (LAC) and with Pakistan at LOC.

(2) Both are the hostile neighbours of India creating the idea of "neighbourhood dilemma" i.e. neighbour being the rival enemy (Kautilya).

(3) The Chinese expansionism at borders (CPEC), Tawang, Galwan, Doklam clash has further deteriorated the relations.

(4) With Pakistan, India has clearly stated that "trade and terror cannot go together".

(5) Chinese chequebook and debt trap diplomacy further creates conflict in the region, leading to suspicion at the SCO. Ex. Nepal, Srilanka going into Chinese embrace.

However, despite these challenges, India can surely achieve the benefits of the SCO:

(1) India during its presidency of SCO (2023) adopted the idea of SECURE SCO: S - Safety and territorial integrity E - Economic development C - cultural linkages U - unity among people R - Respect each others sovereignty E - Environmental cooperation.

(2) The New Delhi Declaration of SCO focused on combating terrorism, extremism. Ex. SCO RATS.

(3) India supported the expansion of SCO to include Iran (now even Belarus).

(4) India is a key partner of SCO for realizing its 'Connect Central Asia policy'.

(5) Despite its rivalry with China, Pakistan, India uses the platform to emerge as "voice of global south".