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)

ALTERED POLITICAL LANDSCAPE AND IMPACT ON INDIA AMBITIONS (1) Halt to bilateral engagements due to ideological differences with Taliban (2) India's support for Afghanistan-led, Afghan-owned democratic process under Delhi declaration (3) Stalled Infrastructure developments as India doesn't formally recognize Taliban legitimacy (4) Violation of human rights by Taliban - Arrest of females on violation of dress code, ban on female education after class 6th (5) Negative implication on Implementation of TAPI Pipeline (6) Potential of Instability and national security concerns as Taliban provides hope to terrorists (7) Crescent Moon and Sire of nano terrorism in India (As per UNODC, India most vulnerable to narcotics as transit as well as destination)