In the rapidly changing global environment, regional integration in south Asia has assumed a new strategic significance. As a largest economy of the South Asian Region. It is imperative and right time for India to inculcate an environment of trust among SAARC partners. India stands to gain substantially from greater economic integration in the region.

a. Summit level co-operation: India has participated in all the summit level meetings. During the 16^th SAARC Summit held in New Delhi on 3^rd and 4^th April 2007, the leaders recognized collectivelly in fulfilling this in a better way with the rest of the world.

The Prime Minister of India Mr. Rajiv Gandhi attended the first SAARC Summit held in Bangladesh in 1985. He emphasized the core issue of economic development in the South Asian region with joint efforts. India is committed to fostering the sense of a South Asian mutual confidence in multiple areas in trying to leverage India’s rapid economic growth into win-win arrangements with her neighbours.

b. SAARC Regional Centres: 

India is having two regional centres:

1. SAARC Documentation Centre (SDC) in New Delhi. 

2. SAARC Disaster Management Centre (SDMC) in New Delhi. 

c. SAARC Development Fund (SDF): India has been one of major contributors to the SAARC development Fund. The Fund has three areas of action on social, economic and infrastructure. India has offered US$100 million for the SAARC Countries.

d. Economics Co-operation: The Agreement on SAARC preferential Trading Arrangement trade negotiations have been concluded. India being an important member of the group intiated a step to ensure that the nations go beyond the rhetoric and make the Summit 5 meaningful.