♤ Tashkent-based Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS) is the security apparatus of the SCO.

1.4.1. India at the SCO

♤ The Astana summit in June 2017 fulfilled India’s long-time desire to attain full membership of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

♤ India had been an observer of SCO meeting since 2005 and participated in ministerial-level meetings, which focused on security and economic co-operation in the Eurasian region.

♤ With India gaining a full membership, the country aims to achieve regional and global stability and prosperity. But, Pakistan’s inclusion in the body poses potential difficulties in India’s plan.

♤ It is expected that becoming a full member of the body will strengthen India’s position