Has India’s influence in Afghanistan grown under the Taliban?
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· India's bilateral relations· Mains·
Why in news
Pakistan accused Afghanistan of becoming a 'colony of India' alleging the Taliban acts as an Indian proxy, while India maintains pragmatic ties with the Taliban to counter regional influence.
Background
India has invested billions of dollars in Afghanistan since 2001 in infrastructure like schools, hospitals, and dams. India maintains diplomatic ties with the Taliban since 2021 based on shared interests like combating terrorism.
Facts for Prelims
- FactIndia has invested billions of dollars in Afghanistan since 2001 in infrastructure projects.
- PlaceAfghanistan: India maintains diplomatic ties with the Taliban since 2021.
- FactIndia condemned Pakistan's recent airstrikes in Afghanistan.
For Mains
Q. Analyze the shift in India's strategic engagement with Afghanistan post-2021 and its implications for regional security and counter-terrorism efforts.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Geopolitical friction: Pakistan's allegations of Indian proxy influence vs. India's pragmatic infrastructure-led diplomacy
- Security architecture: Balancing humanitarian aid with the necessity of combating cross-border terrorism
- Strategic autonomy: India's efforts to counter regional influence while maintaining ties with the Taliban regime
Keywords: Strategic Autonomy · Pragmatic Diplomacy · Regional Hegemony · Counter-terrorism · Infrastructure Diplomacy
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