Which of the following connectivity projects is/are a part of cooperation between India and the ASEAN member countries?

1. Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project
2. IMT Trilateral Highway
3. Agartala-Akhaura Rail Line

Select the answer using the code given below:

1. 1 and 2
2. 2 and 3
3. 1 and 3
4. 2 only

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct

• Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project is a connectivity project between India and Myanmar. The Ministry of External Affairs states that it connects India’s eastern seaport to Sittwe Port in Myanmar, and further to North-East India through Myanmar using sea, river and road transport modes. Myanmar is an ASEAN member state.

Statement 2 is correct

• The India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway is an initiative involving India, Myanmar and Thailand, running from Moreh in Manipur to Mae Sot in Thailand through Myanmar. Both Myanmar and Thailand are ASEAN member states.

Statement 3 is incorrect

• Agartala-Akhaura Rail Line is an India–Bangladesh rail connectivity project. MEA states that the Akhaura–Agartala rail link was planned to improve connectivity between Agartala and Akhaura. Since Bangladesh is not listed among ASEAN member states, this is not an India–ASEAN member-country cooperation project.

Answer: (a) 1 and 2; Difficulty Level: Medium