Question 20GS2GS2

Discuss the geostrategic significance of Afghanistan for India in the context of continental connectivity and access to Central Asia. How has the altered political landscape post-2021 affected India's connectivity and energy corridor ambitions? (Answer in 250 words)

Introduction

Afghanistan comes under II Concentric circle of India's Neighbourhood. Post 2021 with Taliban overpower, the political engagement have been slowed down.

21 words

Main Body

Geostrategic Significance of Afghanistan: 1. To bypass obstacles of connectivity posed by Pakistan 2. Trade & Energy diversification with Central Asia Republics eg Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan Affected of Altered Political landscape [post-2021]: 1. Taliban authoritarianismlimited diplomacy options 2. Fear of Afghanistan becomig hub of Terrorism 3. Taliban-Pakistan nexusthreat to Indian territorial integrity

Affected of Altered Political Landscape [post-2021]: 4. Humanitarian Concerns of woman exploitation in Taliban 5. Inconsistencies in Good and Bad terrorism 6. Incusions of Chinese footprints in Hindu Kush mineral scramble India's Initiatives: 1. Engagement without Entanglement eg on humanitarian aid for hospitals SCO led Afghanistan check & engagements 2. Chabaor, INSTC for connectivity 3. IMEC for Middle East aspiration & European Afghanistan is a key for India to enlarged its diplomatic options in Central Asia, Middle East-

[Final continuation of answer 20]

138 words1 paragraphs

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Page 53

Topper

Simrandeep Kaur

AIR 142025

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

India and its Neighborhood - Relations

India-Central Asia Relations

Writing Stats

159

Total words

Paragraphs

analytical

Tone