In the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation, an initiative of six countries, which of the following is/are not a participant/participants? 1. Bangladesh 2. Cambodia 3. China 4. Myanmar 5. Thailand Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1 and 3 ✓ UPSC's answer
(d) 1, 2 and 5

Why the answer is (c)

• The Mekong–Ganga Cooperation (2000, Vientiane) comprises India and five Mekong countries — Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam — for cooperation in tourism, culture, education and transport.

• Bangladesh (1) and China (3), though riparian to the Ganga–Brahmaputra and Mekong respectively, are not members.

• Hence 1 and 3, option (c).

Why the other options are wrong

(a) 1 only: China is also not a participant.
(b) 2, 3 and 4: Cambodia and Myanmar are participants.
(d) 1, 2 and 5: Cambodia and Thailand are participants.

Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2015, held on 23 August 2015. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.