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)

WAY FORWARD (1) Engaging with Taliban on multilateral forums and channels (expansion organization) (2) Trilateral cooperation using Afghan allies due from Afghan civil due from Pakistan through engagement of non-state actors (3) Soft power for continuity in investment programme (4) People to People exchanges India should choose a pragmatic approach towards Taliban - if one neither reject nor attempt the regime policy would be the most strategic and coherent for now