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)
Main Body
Afghanistan shares a very small boundary (blocked by Pakistan) with India. It is crucial for stability and connectivity in the region. Geostrategic significance of Afghanistan for India: (1) Connectivity to Central Asia via ChabaharZarang-Delaram highway and there to Central Asia. (2) Dapans interconnect states like Pakistan to unify the West Asia with India.
3Transparent of humanitarian aid to Afghanistan. Geostrategic significance of Afghanistan for India: Geopolitical significance. Engagement with Taliban after 2021 as it may pose threat to India's security - Pakistan backed anti-India forces in Haqqani Network. (5) ensure security of India's infrastructure in Afghanistan. (6) Salma Dam, parliament (6) Isolate Pakistan in West Asia → Neighbour's neighbour is of utmost importance (Foreign policy a). (7) Energy trade route like TAPI from Turkmenistan to India. Affect of 2021 events: (1) obstructed TAPI project. (2) Sustainability for brief period - relief pause in humanitarian aid.
148 words1 paragraphs
Conclusion
Way forward → include Afghanistan in BIMSTEC, continued humanitarian aid, safe pathway via Unlash, build energy corridor via Chabahar (NSTC and Chabahar to access central Asia. Afghanistan remains a crucial state in geopolitical calculus of India. India must continue engagement.
40 words
Diagram
Map of Afghanistan showing small boundary with India (blocked by Pakistan), with Chabahar connectivity marked
Topper
PAWAN KUMAR PANDEY
AIR 1382025
Subject & Paper
GS2GS2
Topic
Effect of Policies of Developed/Developing Countries and Indian Diaspora
India-Central Asia Relations
India-Central Asia Relations
Writing Stats
188
Total words
1
Paragraphs
analytical
Tone