With reference to the SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum, consider the following statements: 1. The forum is scheduled to take place at the Red Fort in New Delhi. 2. The event will involve representatives from over 25 countries. 3. The forum is being organized solely by the Ministry of External Affairs. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

India to host first Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Civilisational Dialogue Forum at Purana Quila

GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Regional & global groupings (QUAD, BRICS, SCO, G20...)· Prelims· 28 October 2026

Cultural diplomacy and soft power: a key GS2 theme regarding India's role in multilateral forums.

Why in news

India is set to host the first Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Civilisational Dialogue Forum at Purana Quila, New Delhi, to foster cultural exchange among member and observer nations.

Background

The three-day forum is scheduled from November 20 to 22, 2026, and will involve representatives from over 25 countries. It is being organized jointly by the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of External Affairs.

Facts for Prelims

BodySCO: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
PlacePurana Quila: A historical fort located in New Delhi
FactThe forum will include representatives from over 25 countries
PostPrime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the event

Prelims practice question

With reference to the SCO Civilisational Dialogue Forum, consider the following statements:

The forum is scheduled to take place at the Red Fort in New Delhi.
The event will involve representatives from over 25 countries.
The forum is being organized solely by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a)1 only
(b)2 only
(c)3 only
(d)1 and 3 only

Show answer

Answer: (b) 2 only — Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: The forum is scheduled at Purana Quila. Statement 3 is incorrect: It is being organized jointly by the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of External Affairs.

For Mains

Q. Discuss how cultural diplomacy and civilisational dialogues can serve as instruments of soft power for India within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

Soft power projection: Utilizing heritage sites like Purana Quila to project India's civilisational depth
Multilateral engagement: Strengthening India's position as a cultural bridge in the SCO framework

Keywords: Soft Power · Cultural Diplomacy · Civilisational Dialogue · Multilateralism · Heritage Diplomacy

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