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India-Afghanistan Relations 

India has always been a strong supporter of Afghanistan, especially after the fall of the Taliban in 2001. The country has helped Afghanistan in many ways, providing everything from food to building materials. 

  • Recently, India sent over 20,000 metric tons of wheat to Afghanistan, helping alleviate food shortages caused by the Taliban's takeover and natural disasters. This wheat was meant for the Afghan people, especially those in need, and was delivered through the World Food Programme (WFP). 
  •  India is also working on several major projects in Afghanistan, including the construction of the Shahtoot dam, which will provide drinking water and irrigation to the Kabul region. Additionally, India is involved in building a new hospital in Kabul, further demonstrating its commitment to helping the Afghan people. 
  •  Despite challenges, including the Taliban's restrictive policies on women and girls, India remains dedicated to supporting Afghanistan's development. The Indian government is looking for ways to continue its aid, focusing on areas like food security, education, and health. 

Key Areas of India-Afghanistan Cooperation 

Infrastructure Development: India has been instrumental in various infrastructure projects across Afghanistan, reflecting its commitment to the country's long-term development. Some of the notable projects include: 
  • Salma Dam: This dam is crucial for irrigation and power supply in the Herat province. 
  • Afghan Parliament Building:. symbol of democracy and governance, this building showcases India's support for Afghanistan's political institutions. 
  • Doshi and Charikar Substations: These projects aim to improve electricity distribution in northern Afghanistan. 
  • Restoration of Stor Palace: This project is part of efforts to preserve Afghanistan's cultural heritage. 
  • Chabahar Port Development: Although primarily an Iranian project, India’s involvement in Chabahar Port is expected to enhance trade connectivity for Afghanistan. 

Small Development Projects (SDP): India has launched various small development projects in sectors such as: 

  •  Agriculture 
  •  Rural Development 
  •  Education 
  •  Health 
  •  Vocational Training 

 These projects aim to improve the quality of life for ordinary Afghans and are tailored to meet local needs. 

Economic Cooperation: Afghanistan is a significant market for Indian businesses, and both countries are working to enhance trade relations. Key aspects include: 

  • Indian Exports to Afghanistan: Major exports include man-made fibers, textiles, pharmaceuticals, grains, and dairy products. 
  • Afghan Exports to India: Fresh and dry fruits are the primary exports from Afghanistan to India. 
  • Air-Freight Corridor: Established in 2017, this corridor has facilitated the transport of goods worth over USD 216 million, benefiting Afghan farmers and traders. 

Cultural Relations:  The cultural ties between India and Afghanistan are deep-rooted, with shared interests in music, arts, architecture, language, and cuisine. India is actively involved in: 

  • Preserving Afghan Cultural Heritage: Efforts are underway to safeguard Afghanistan's ancient architecture and art. 
  • Indian Cultural Centre: This centre promotes cultural exchange and understanding between the two nations. 
  • Indian Film Market: Afghanistan is an important market for the Indian film industry, further strengthening cultural ties. 

India’s multifaceted approach towards Afghanistan, encompassing infrastructure development, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange, underscores its commitment to the country’s stability and growth. Despite the changing political landscape in Afghanistan, India continues to seek ways to support the Afghan people and strengthen bilateral ties.

Commercial Relations between India and Afghanistan 

  •  The India-Afghanistan Air-Freight Corridor, established in 2017, has significantly enhanced trade between the two nations. Approximately 1,000 flights have been conducted under this corridor, transporting goods worth over $216 million. This initiative has provided substantial benefits to Afghan farmers, traders, and exporters. Currently, India and Afghanistan are exploring the possibility of expanding the corridor to include more cities. 
  •  The activation of the Chabahar port in Iran in 2017, along with India's role in managing its operations in 2018, has further bolstered trade relations between India and Afghanistan. Since its inception, the port has facilitated the shipment of over 5,000 containers, comprising more than 110,000 tons of wheat and pulses sent as humanitarian aid from India to Afghanistan. As a result, the transit time for deliveries to Afghanistan has been reduced to under two weeks. In 2019, Afghanistan successfully shipped 700 tons of goods to India via Chabahar port, demonstrating the port's effectiveness for Afghan trade. 
  •  The 'Passage to Prosperity' trade shows, aimed at fostering India-Afghanistan trade, have witnessed increased participation over the years. The 2019 edition featured 105 Afghan businesses, leading to the signing of trade deals worth $33.6 million and discussions on potential deals worth $23.3 million. This reflects the strengthening trade relationship between India and Afghanistan. 

Sports Cooperation Between India and Afghanistan 

Football:

  •  Since 2011, Afghan youth football teams have been participating in the Subroto Cup International Football Tournament organized by the Indian Air Force. This has helped develop young Afghan footballers and foster friendship between the two countries. 

Cricket:

  •  Cricket has played a significant role in strengthening the ties between the people of India and Afghanistan. 
  •  The Afghanistan Cricket Board has been allocated three cricket grounds in India to be used as home grounds. 
  •  India is also assisting in the construction of cricket stadiums and grounds in Afghanistan. 
  •  The first India-Afghanistan Test match took place in 2018 in Bangalore. 
  •  India hosted a bilateral Test series in 2019 between Afghanistan and the West Indies, with Afghanistan as the official host. 

 Humanitarian Assistance:

  •  India is the largest regional donor to Afghanistan, with a development assistance program exceeding US $2 billion. 
  •  India has committed to improving Kabul’s transportation system by donating 1000 buses to Afghanistan. 
  •  In January 2022, India donated 500,000 doses of Covid-19 vaccines to Afghanistan as humanitarian aid to strengthen bilateral relations. 
  •  Over 15,000 Afghan students study in India on a self-financing basis, with more than 3,500 Afghan nationals studying or receiving training in India annually. 
  •  India provided 2000 tonnes of pulses to Afghanistan in 2018 to support food security, particularly for children during drought conditions. 

 India’s Investment in Afghanistan 

  •  The Government of India is investing over US $100 million to expand the Chabahar port in Iran, which will serve as a transport hub for importing and exporting various goods, including agricultural and mineral items. This port may also be used as a transit location for Afghanistan and Central Asia. 
  •  A public-private coalition of Indian iron ore mining and steel companies, led by the Steel Authority of India, won the tender for the Hajigak iron ore reserves to build a 1.2 MTPA steel plant, including a 90 MW capacity power plant. 
  •  During the 15th SAARC summit, India committed to pledging an additional $450 million for ongoing and upcoming projects in Afghanistan, alongside a further $750 million already pledged. 

India-Afghanistan Relations Post Taliban Takeover 

Background: Taliban Takeover:

  • In August 2021, the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan following President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw U.S. troops.
  • This shift raised questions about the future of India-Afghanistan relations and the broader implications for the region.

India’s Position on Afghanistan Post-Taliban Takeover:

  • Zero-Tolerance for Terrorism: India maintains a strict policy against terrorism, emphasizing the need for a stable and secure Afghanistan to prevent the spillover of extremist activities. 
  • Inclusive Peace Process: India advocates for a peace process in Afghanistan that is led, controlled, and owned by the Afghan people themselves, ensuring their interests and voices are paramount. 
  • Role of the UN: India calls for a more significant role for the United Nations in facilitating peace and stability in Afghanistan, highlighting the need for international cooperation. 
  • Criticism of Pakistan: India criticizes Pakistan for its alleged support of terrorist organizations and for its influence in establishing the Taliban government in Afghanistan. 
  • Perception of the Taliban: The Taliban in 2021 is perceived to be more liberal and mature compared to their previous regime, with indications of potential for dialogue and governance. 
  • Engagement with Afghan Leaders: Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai and other Afghan leaders are in discussions with the Taliban, indicating a possibility of a more inclusive governance structure. 

Question for Indo-Afghan Bilateral Relations - 2
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What major infrastructure project is India involved in building in Afghanistan to provide drinking water and irrigation to the Kabul region?
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Indian Community in Afghanistan

Current Presence: As of now, there are approximately 1,710 Indians residing in Afghanistan. 
Professional Engagement: The majority of Indians in Afghanistan are employed in various professional sectors, including: 

  •  Banks 
  •  IT Firms 
  •  Construction Companies 
  •  Hospitals 
  •  Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) 
  •  Telecom Companies 
  •  Security Companies 
  •  Universities 
  •  Government-Sponsored Projects (by both the Indian government and the Afghan government) 
  •  United Nations Missions 

Challenges in India-Afghanistan Relations

The challenges in India-Afghanistan relations are discussed below:

  • Terrorism: Afghanistan is witnessing a surge in terrorism, posing a threat to India's security. The instability and volatility in Afghanistan are impacting India, necessitating a practical engagement with the Afghan government to address the complex issue of terrorism.
  • Drug Trafficking: Drug trafficking from Afghanistan is a significant concern for India, particularly due to its impact on the youth in regions like Punjab. The links between Afghanistan and India in this regard are troubling, as drug addiction is rising among the younger population in India.
  • Non-Democratic Regime: India prefers the continuation of a democratically elected government in Afghanistan, as it has fostered better relations in the past. However, the Taliban's takeover established a non-democratic regime, complicating India's stance.
  • Political Instability: The political instability in Afghanistan affects India and other neighboring countries. There is a concern that Pakistan, which has previously supported the Taliban, may increase its support for the group, further destabilizing the region.
  • Proxy War by Pakistan: Pakistan is allegedly engaging in a proxy war in Afghanistan, attempting to tilt the balance in favor of the Taliban regime. This hidden role poses a challenge for India in maintaining peaceful relations with Afghanistan under the current circumstances.

Importance of Afghanistan to India 

Afghanistan holds strategic importance for India due to several factors:

  • Regional Leadership: Afghanistan is crucial for India’s goal of regional leadership and countering China’s influence, especially regarding resources and countering Pakistan’s dominance.
  • Strategic Location: Afghanistan’s position at the crossroads of South and Central Asia is vital for India’s regional and global interests.
  • Security Concerns: India is wary of security issues arising from Afghanistan, as the country has been a source of instability and terrorism in the region.
  • Natural Resources: Afghanistan is rich in natural resources like oil, gas, and minerals, presenting opportunities for mutually beneficial collaboration with India.
  • Cultural Ties: India values its deep cultural connections with Afghanistan and emphasizes the importance of people-to-people links in their relationship.
  • Regional Cooperation: India views its partnership with Afghanistan as essential for regional cooperation in South Asia, supporting Afghanistan’s efforts for peace, stability, and development.
  • Gateway to Central Asia: Afghanistan serves as India’s gateway to Central Asia, facilitating connectivity and trade opportunities.

 Way Forward 

  • The relationship between India and Afghanistan is multifaceted, encompassing military, security, social, and economic dimensions. While there is a significant security component aimed at stabilising Afghanistan, the relationship is also influenced by India’s connection with Pakistan.
  • Social and Economic Engagement: There is a more optimistic outlook for social and economic ties, which include investments by Indian businesses and development projects undertaken by the Indian government in Afghanistan. 
  • Regional Engagement Initiative: India’s leadership in the Istanbul Process, a regional engagement initiative, highlights its commitment to normalising the situation in Afghanistan from a neighbourhood perspective, aiming for stability and cooperation in the region.

The document Indo-Afghan Bilateral Relations - 2 | UPSC Mains: International Relations is a part of the UPSC Course UPSC Mains: International Relations.
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FAQs on Indo-Afghan Bilateral Relations - 2 - UPSC Mains: International Relations

1. What are some of the strategic factors that undergird India's partnership with Afghanistan?
Ans. India's partnership with Afghanistan is underpinned by several strategic factors, including: - Geopolitical Stability: India sees a stable and peaceful Afghanistan as crucial for its own security and stability in the region. By supporting Afghanistan, India aims to ensure that the country does not become a safe haven for terrorist groups that may pose a threat to India. - Economic Interests: India has invested significantly in various infrastructure projects in Afghanistan, such as building roads, dams, and power transmission lines. These investments are aimed at promoting economic development in Afghanistan and enhancing trade and connectivity between the two countries. - Cultural and Historical Ties: India and Afghanistan share deep cultural and historical ties dating back centuries. There is a strong people-to-people connection between the two countries, which forms the basis of their bilateral relationship. - Regional Influence: India considers Afghanistan as a gateway to Central Asia and views its partnership as a means to enhance its influence in the region. By engaging with Afghanistan, India aims to counter the influence of other regional powers and safeguard its own strategic interests. - Counterterrorism Cooperation: India and Afghanistan cooperate closely in the fight against terrorism. Both countries have been victims of terrorism and have a shared interest in combating extremist groups. India provides training and support to Afghan security forces to strengthen their counterterrorism capabilities.
2. What are the implications of the withdrawal of troops on Indo-Afghan bilateral relations?
Ans. The withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan, including those from the United States, has significant implications for Indo-Afghan bilateral relations. Some of these implications include: - Security Challenges: The withdrawal of foreign troops could lead to a power vacuum and a resurgence of Taliban influence in Afghanistan. This could pose security challenges not only for Afghanistan but also for neighboring countries, including India. Instability in Afghanistan could potentially impact India's security interests and necessitate a reevaluation of its engagement with the country. - Economic Impact: The withdrawal of troops may impact the economic development of Afghanistan. International aid and investments could decrease, which could hamper the progress made in various sectors. This, in turn, could affect India's economic interests in Afghanistan, including its investments in infrastructure projects. - Shift in Regional Dynamics: The withdrawal of troops could lead to a shift in regional dynamics, with other powers vying for influence in Afghanistan. This could potentially marginalize India's role and limit its ability to shape events in the region. India may need to reassess its regional strategy and explore alternative avenues to maintain its influence. - Increased Terrorist Threats: The withdrawal of troops may create an environment conducive for terrorist groups to regroup and launch attacks. This could pose a direct threat to India's security, as well as hinder its efforts to combat terrorism in the region. India may need to enhance its counterterrorism cooperation with Afghanistan and other regional partners to address this challenge. - Humanitarian Concerns: The withdrawal of troops could exacerbate the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan, leading to a potential influx of refugees. India may need to address the humanitarian needs of Afghan refugees and provide support to ensure their well-being.
3. How does India's partnership with Afghanistan contribute to its regional influence?
Ans. India's partnership with Afghanistan contributes to its regional influence in several ways: - Connectivity: India has invested in various infrastructure projects in Afghanistan, such as the construction of roads, dams, and power transmission lines. These projects aim to enhance connectivity between India and Afghanistan, as well as with other Central Asian countries. Improved connectivity strengthens India's regional influence by facilitating trade, people-to-people exchanges, and cross-border cooperation. - Economic Cooperation: India's economic cooperation with Afghanistan, including investments and trade, helps in building stronger ties and influence in the region. It creates opportunities for economic collaboration and fosters regional integration, which can contribute to India's overall regional influence. - Development Assistance: India has provided significant development assistance to Afghanistan in areas such as education, healthcare, and capacity building. These efforts have helped in improving the lives of Afghan people and have garnered goodwill for India in the region. By supporting Afghanistan's development, India enhances its soft power and regional influence. - Security Cooperation: India and Afghanistan cooperate closely in the field of security, particularly in countering terrorism. This collaboration enhances regional security and stability, which contributes to India's reputation as a responsible regional actor. It strengthens India's influence by showcasing its commitment to addressing common security challenges. - Diplomatic Engagement: India actively engages with Afghanistan through diplomatic channels, including high-level visits and bilateral agreements. Such engagements help in building trust and understanding between the two countries, as well as with other regional actors. India's diplomatic efforts contribute to its regional influence by enabling it to shape regional agendas and forge strategic partnerships.
4. How does the partnership between India and Afghanistan contribute to counterterrorism efforts?
Ans. The partnership between India and Afghanistan contributes significantly to counterterrorism efforts in the region. Some key contributions include: - Capacity Building: India provides training and support to Afghan security forces to enhance their counterterrorism capabilities. This includes training in areas such as intelligence gathering, surveillance, and tactical operations. By strengthening Afghan security forces, India helps build a more effective counterterrorism infrastructure in Afghanistan. - Intelligence Sharing: India and Afghanistan share intelligence on terrorist activities and networks. This exchange of information helps both countries in identifying and neutralizing potential threats. It enables proactive measures to be taken against terrorist organizations operating in the region. - Joint Operations: India and Afghanistan conduct joint operations against terrorist groups that pose a threat to both countries. These operations include sharing resources, coordinating efforts, and conducting targeted strikes on terrorist hideouts. The joint operations strengthen the collective fight against terrorism and disrupt the activities of extremist organizations. - Countering Radicalization: India supports various initiatives in Afghanistan aimed at countering radicalization and promoting peace and tolerance. These initiatives focus on education, community engagement, and religious dialogue to prevent the spread of radical ideologies. By addressing the root causes of terrorism, India contributes to long-term efforts in countering radicalization. - Regional Cooperation: India and Afghanistan actively participate in regional forums and initiatives focused on counterterrorism cooperation. This regional collaboration, which includes countries like the United States and other South Asian nations, strengthens the collective capacity to combat terrorism. India's partnership with Afghanistan helps in developing a coordinated approach to addressing shared security challenges.
5. How do cultural and historical ties between India and Afghanistan influence their bilateral relationship?
Ans. Cultural and historical ties between India and Afghanistan play a significant role in shaping their bilateral relationship. Some ways in which these ties influence their relationship include: - People-to-People Connections: India and Afghanistan have a long history of cultural and people-to-people interactions. These connections create a sense of familiarity, understanding, and trust between the two countries. It forms the basis of a strong bond and facilitates cooperation in various fields. - Shared Heritage: India and Afghanistan share a rich cultural heritage, evident in their art, architecture, literature, and traditions. This shared heritage fosters a sense of common identity and strengthens the cultural ties between the two countries. It serves as a bridge for deeper engagement and mutual appreciation. - Historical Cooperation: India and Afghanistan have a history of cooperation and exchange in various fields, including trade, education, and spirituality. These historical ties create a foundation for contemporary collaboration and provide a sense of continuity in the bilateral relationship. - Soft Power Influence: India's cultural and artistic contributions, such as Bollywood films, music, and cuisine, have gained popularity in Afghanistan. This soft power influence helps in building positive perceptions and goodwill towards India. It enhances the overall bilateral relationship and creates avenues for cultural exchange and collaboration. - Diaspora Connections: Indian diaspora in Afghanistan and Afghan diaspora in India form a vital link between the two countries. These diaspora communities contribute to the economic, social, and cultural fabric of both nations. They act as ambassadors, fostering stronger bonds and facilitating people-to-people engagements. The cultural and historical ties between India and Afghanistan provide a strong foundation for their bilateral relationship, fostering mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation.
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