(Girish Billore Mukul, Independent Writer and Journalist)
Since the Taliban's return to power in 2021, new geopolitical equations have emerged in South Asia. India has strengthened its position in Afghanistan by establishing pragmatic dialogue with the Taliban regime, causing visible unease in Pakistan's media and military establishment. This article analyzes India-Taliban relations, Pakistan's "strategic depth" policy, and the roles of global players like the United States, China, and Russia. It also highlights India's historical and strategic policies, which remain a topic of discussion on the global stage in 2025.
India and Afghanistan: Historical and Cultural Ties
The relationship between India and Afghanistan dates back to the ancient Harappan era, deeply rooted in cultural, social, and people-to-people connections.
Cultural Heritage: Rabindranath Tagore’s story Kabuliwala (1892) symbolizes the bond of trust and affection between India and Afghanistan, a connection that continues to reflect their cultural ties.
Development Projects: India has made significant contributions to Afghanistan’s reconstruction:
Salma Dam (2016): Built in Herat province, also known as the Afghanistan-India Friendship Dam, it addresses electricity and irrigation needs.
Afghan Parliament Building (2015): Constructed in Kabul, it symbolizes India’s support for Afghanistan’s democracy.
Zaranj-Delaram Highway: This connects Afghanistan to Iran’s Chabahar port, reducing Afghanistan’s dependence on Pakistan.
India’s Pragmatic Approach to the Taliban
Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, India has maintained relations through humanitarian aid and diplomatic engagement. In 2025, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has increased its focus on food, medicine, and educational assistance for the Afghan people.
Strategic Importance: This approach not only aims to bring stability to Afghanistan but also strengthens India’s position in regional geopolitics.
Afghan Foreign Minister’s Visit to India (2024): This visit highlighted the Taliban’s growing acceptance of India on the global stage, further fueling Pakistan’s unease.
Pakistan’s "Strategic Depth" Policy and India’s Concerns
Since 1947, Pakistan has viewed Afghanistan as its "strategic depth," seeking a controlled and favorable Afghan government to counter India.
Anti-India Agenda: India’s growing role in Afghanistan challenges this vision.
Pakistani Media’s Reaction: In 2025, Pakistani media labeled India-Taliban relations as "dangerous," intensifying anti-India propaganda, reflecting Pakistan’s frustration.
Role of Global Powers: USA, China, and Russia
United States: The U.S. seeks access to the Bagram Airbase, but the Taliban has shown greater trust in India. In 2025, U.S. policies continue to use Pakistan as a strategic tool in the region.
China: Attracted by Afghanistan’s rare earth minerals and strategic importance, China has adopted a "wait and watch" approach by 2025. Its trust in Pakistan has waned due to attacks on CPEC projects.
Russia: Russia remains cautious in Afghanistan, grappling with its past failures and economic challenges.
Pakistan: A Strategic Tool for the U.S. and China?
Pakistan portrays itself as an anti-Israel voice in the Islamic world, but this is seen as a strategic maneuver.
Example: In 2017, Pakistani channels broadcast Donald Trump’s speech to the Israeli parliament live, confirming this posturing.
U.S. Influence: U.S. military access to Pakistani airbases and Pentagon policies indicate Pakistan’s role as a key U.S. ally.
China’s Role: Despite attacks on Chinese citizens in Balochistan and CPEC, China views Pakistan as a tool against India.
Regional Stability and India’s Role
India’s dialogue with the Taliban aligns with its ancient policy of peace and coexistence. A stable Afghanistan is in the interest of not only India but the entire South Asian region. Analysts suggest two possibilities for regional stability:
Concept of Akhand Bharat: Regional stability through cultural and economic unity.
Fragmentation of Pakistan: Some experts believe Pakistan’s current structure is the root of regional instability.
In 2025, India’s Afghan policy has not only strengthened ties with the Taliban but also established India as a responsible and balanced global power.
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