{"id":151126,"date":"2025-01-11T19:53:33","date_gmt":"2025-01-11T14:23:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/?post_type=current-affairs&#038;p=151126"},"modified":"2025-01-13T17:41:09","modified_gmt":"2025-01-13T12:11:09","slug":"india-taliban-talks","status":"publish","type":"current-affairs","link":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/current-affairs\/india-taliban-talks","title":{"rendered":"India-Taliban Talks Realism in Acting West"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recently, the <\/span><b>Indian Foreign Secretary met with the Taliban\u2019s acting foreign minister<\/b> <b>Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This meeting represents India\u2019s highest-level engagement with the Taliban since their return to power in <\/span><b>August 2021.<\/b><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Recent Shifts in India\u2019s Engagement with the Taliban<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-151100 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/111-678270c128fe0.webp\" alt=\"India-Taliban Talks\" width=\"403\" height=\"285\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/111-678270c128fe0.webp 780w, https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/111-678270c128fe0-300x212.webp 300w, https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/111-678270c128fe0-768x544.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 403px) 100vw, 403px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pragmatic Approach: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India has moved towards a <\/span><b>pragmatic engagement<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with the Taliban, despite not granting formal recognition to their regime. The focus has shifted from <\/span><b>isolation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to <\/span><b>security concerns<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>trade<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>humanitarian assistance<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Taliban\u2019s <\/span><b>requests<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for India to restart <\/span><b>development projects<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and provide <\/span><b>material support<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in areas such as <\/span><b>healthcare<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>refugee rehabilitation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> were discussed.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Humanitarian Assistance: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India agreed to <\/span><b>expand its involvement<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in humanitarian efforts, including further support to Afghanistan\u2019s <\/span><b>health sector<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and efforts to <\/span><b>rehabilitate refugees<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India has already provided significant aid, such as <\/span><b>50,000 MT of wheat<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>300 tons of medicines<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>vaccines<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Trade and Connectivity: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A key focus of the discussions was on <\/span><b>promoting the use of the Chabahar Port<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as a key gateway for <\/span><b>trade and commercial activities<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, bypassing Pakistan\u2019s ports.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India\u2019s support for <\/span><b>Afghanistan\u2019s trade<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and the <\/span><b>expansion of connectivity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> via Chabahar port is essential for bolstering Afghanistan&#8217;s economic ties with India and the region.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Security Concerns: India\u2019s main security concern<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> remains ensuring that Afghanistan\u2019s soil is not used for <\/span><b>anti-India activities<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> by militant groups like <\/span><b>LeT<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>JeM<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>ISKP<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Taliban&#8217;s assurances<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to India on <\/span><b>security guarantees<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for Indian interests and facilities in Afghanistan were discussed, addressing some of India&#8217;s primary security fears.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Strained Relations with Pakistan: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Pakistan-Taliban relationship<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has become increasingly strained, particularly with <\/span><b>Pakistan\u2019s airstrikes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> on Afghan soil, which India condemned in <\/span><b>January 2025<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Taliban\u2019s <\/span><b>growing discomfort with Pakistan<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offers India an opportunity to strengthen its position in Afghanistan by engaging with the Taliban.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Strategic Autonomy for the Taliban: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Taliban has expressed its desire to demonstrate <\/span><b>strategic autonomy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and reduce its dependency on Pakistan, signaling a shift in its foreign policy.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Taliban has shown interest in <\/span><b>strengthening ties with India<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as part of its <\/span><b>balanced and economy-centric foreign policy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, viewing India as a key <\/span><b>regional partner<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Continued Engagement Despite Human Rights Concerns: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite the <\/span><b>Taliban\u2019s oppressive policies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, especially regarding <\/span><b>women&#8217;s rights<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, India has continued its engagement, focusing on <\/span><b>developmental cooperation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>humanitarian aid<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India has reiterated that it will not recognize the <\/span><b>Taliban regime<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> formally but will engage based on its <\/span><b>national security interests<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>humanitarian commitments<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"vc_button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pw.live\/batches\/upsc?utm_source=seo+upsc+batch&#038;utm_medium=seo+upsc&#038;utm_campaign=seo&#038;utm_id=upsc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Enroll now for UPSC Online Course<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"vc_table_green\"><\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 99.8996%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"width: 100%; border-style: solid; border-color: #000000; background-color: rgba(184, 165, 217, 0.53); text-align: left; vertical-align: middle;\">\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt; color: #000000;\"><b>India-Afghanistan Relations: Historical Perspective<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Ancient Period<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Indus Valley Civilization<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Historical ties trace back to the Indus Valley Civilization, where trade and cultural exchanges were prominent.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Gandhara Region<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Gandhara, part of modern-day Afghanistan, was one of the 16 Mahajanapadas in the Vedic Age. It was a hub for Buddhism, introduced by the Mauryan Empire.<\/span><\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Bamiyan Buddhas<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: These majestic sculptures highlighted the influence of Buddhism in the region Period<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Cultural Exchange<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Afghanistan served as a gateway for cultural exchanges and the spread of Islam into India.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Political Integration<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Several rulers of the Indian subcontinent, including the Mughals, had Afghan roots, further intertwining the two regions.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Colonial Era<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Anglo-Afghan Relations<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Afghanistan&#8217;s strategic location led to several conflicts between British India and Afghanistan, including the Anglo-Afghan Wars (1839\u20131842, 1878\u20131880).<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Durand Line<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Established in <\/span><b>1893 by the British<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, this boundary caused long-term disputes and instability in the region .<\/span><\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Afghanistan <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">has <\/span><b>never officially recognized<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the Durand Line as the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Post-Independance\u00a0<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Treaty of Friendship (1950): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India and Afghanistan established formal diplomatic relations, emphasizing mutual respect and sovereignty .<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Afghanistan&#8217;s Neutrality<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Participation in the <\/span><b>Asian Relations Conference (1947)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> emphasized its commitment to neutrality and friendly relations with India .<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Soviet-Afghan Relations (1979-1989)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: India sup Soviet-backed Afghan government during the Cold War, the only South Asian country to do so.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Modern Era<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Taliban Era (1996\u20132001)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Relations soured during the Taliban regime, marked by incidents like the <\/span><b>Kandahar hijacking (1999)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Post-Taliban (2001)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: India played a key role in Afghanistan&#8217;s reconstruction after the Taliban&#8217;s fall, committing over <\/span><b>$3 billion<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for infrastructure and capacity building projects.<\/span><\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Landmarks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Salma Dam (Afghan-India Friendship Dam)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Completed in 2016.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><b>Zaranj-Delaram Highway<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Facilitated trade with Iran via Chabahar Port.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><\/div>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Reasons Behind India\u2019s Decision to Engage Afghanistan<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Strained Pakistan-Taliban Relations: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The once-close alliance between Pakistan and the Taliban has deteriorated due to increasing tensions.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taliban\u2019s support for <\/span><b>Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and Pakistan\u2019s airstrikes on Afghan territory have caused friction.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This provides India an opportunity to step in and counter Pakistan\u2019s influence in Afghanistan.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>China\u2019s Growing Influence: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">China has deepened ties with the Taliban, including exchanging ambassadors and launching urban development projects.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beijing\u2019s investments in Afghanistan\u2019s natural resources under the <\/span><b>Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> threaten India\u2019s regional interests, prompting Delhi to act to protect its influence.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>US Policy Changes and Trump\u2019s Return: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The return of <\/span><b>Donald Trump<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to the White House may see renewed US-Taliban engagement.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India aims to secure its interests in Afghanistan ahead of possible American re-engagement with the Taliban.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Regional Security and Counterterrorism: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A stable Afghanistan is critical to ensuring that <\/span><b>terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> do not use its territory for anti-India activities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Economic Opportunities: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Afghanistan&#8217;s untapped <\/span><b>mineral wealth<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, including <\/span><b>copper, iron, lithium<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and rare earth elements, presents economic opportunities for India.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India has already invested <\/span><b>$3 billion<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in infrastructure projects such as the <\/span><b>Salma Dam<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>Afghan Parliament<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which enhance Afghanistan&#8217;s economic growth and goodwill towards India.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Weakened Iran: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Iran is preoccupied with <\/span><b>domestic stability<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and tensions with Israel after attacks on its proxies (<\/span><b>Hezbollah, Hamas<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and missile strikes.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Iran\u2019s reduced focus on Afghanistan creates space for India to enhance its role in the region.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Russia\u2019s Strategic Shift: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Caught up in the <\/span><b>Ukraine war<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Russia seeks alliances with groups like the Taliban to counter threats from Islamic extremist groups in Central Asia.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moscow\u2019s willingness to normalize relations with the Taliban highlights changing geopolitical equations, prompting India to engage proactively.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Strategic Location: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Afghanistan acts as a <\/span><b>gateway to Central Asia<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, providing India access to energy-rich markets and bypassing Pakistan through the <\/span><b>Chabahar Port<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Iran.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Projects like the <\/span><b>Zaranj-Delaram Highway<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, built by India, facilitate trade and connectivity between India, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cultural and Historical Ties: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Afghanistan and India share deep <\/span><b>civilizational links<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, from the <\/span><b>Indus Valley Civilization<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to the spread of <\/span><b>Buddhism<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> through the region.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India\u2019s provision of <\/span><b>scholarships<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and cultural exchanges strengthens people-to-people ties, with thousands of Afghan students studying in India each year.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Implications of India Engaging with the Taliban<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 16pt;\"><b>Positive Implications<\/b><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Regional Stability: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Engagement with the Taliban provides India an opportunity to influence regional stability by countering terrorism and preventing Afghanistan from becoming a hub for anti-India activities.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It strengthens India&#8217;s presence in Afghanistan, balancing <\/span><b>China\u2019s growing influence<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>Pakistan\u2019s strategic goals<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Look West Policy:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Afghanistan could play a pivotal role in India\u2019s westward geopolitical strategy.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Preservation of Investments: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By engaging with the Taliban, India safeguards its <\/span><b>$3 billion worth of investments<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Afghanistan, including critical infrastructure projects like the <\/span><b>Salma Dam<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>Zaranj-Delaram Highway<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and the <\/span><b>Afghan Parliament<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Resumption of stalled development projects ensures India&#8217;s continued goodwill among the Afghan population.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Improved Trade and Connectivity: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leveraging <\/span><b>Chabahar Port<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> ensures uninterrupted trade routes to Afghanistan and <\/span><b>Central Asia<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, bypassing Pakistan.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Strengthening trade relations boosts economic activity in the region and opens new markets for Indian exports.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Counter-Terrorism Collaboration: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dialogue with the Taliban helps ensure that groups like <\/span><b>Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> do not operate from Afghan soil.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taliban\u2019s assurances against the <\/span><b>Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISKP)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> align with India\u2019s security concerns.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Humanitarian Diplomacy: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Providing humanitarian aid like <\/span><b>wheat, vaccines, and medicines<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> enhances India\u2019s image as a responsible global power.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Strengthening ties with Afghan civil society fosters people-to-people relationships.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"vc_button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+CSE+Books\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 16pt;\"><b>Negative Implications<\/b><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Legitimizing the Taliban Regime: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Engaging with the Taliban without formal recognition risks indirectly legitimizing a regime known for its <\/span><b>repressive policies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, particularly towards women and minorities.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This could lead to criticism domestically and internationally, challenging India\u2019s democratic values.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Security Risks: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite Taliban assurances, there remains a risk of <\/span><b>terrorist groups<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> using Afghanistan as a base for <\/span><b>cross-border terrorism<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> targeting India.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan may spill over into South Asia, affecting regional peace.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Strained Relations with Western Allies: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Closer ties with the Taliban might not align with the policies of Western countries, particularly those critical of Taliban human rights violations.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It could impact India\u2019s partnerships with countries prioritizing <\/span><b>democratic governance<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Afghanistan.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Complex Relations with Pakistan: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While Pakistan-Taliban relations are strained, India\u2019s engagement might provoke a backlash from Islamabad, potentially escalating tensions.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pakistan may use this as a pretext to increase proxy activities against Indian interests in Afghanistan.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Unpredictable Taliban Policies: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Taliban\u2019s internal divisions and lack of a cohesive governance structure make them an unreliable partner.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shifting allegiances and policies could jeopardize India\u2019s investments and long-term strategic interests.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"vc_table_green\"><\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 99.7979%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 100%;\">\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>India\u2019s Initiatives and Projects in Afghanistan<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-151101 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/112-678270c032932.webp\" alt=\"India-Taliban Talks\" width=\"400\" height=\"411\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/112-678270c032932.webp 645w, https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/112-678270c032932-292x300.webp 292w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Infrastructure Development<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Salma Dam (Afghan-India Friendship Dam)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Completed in <\/span><b>2016<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, this hydroelectric and irrigation project in Herat Province highlights India\u2019s support for Afghanistan\u2019s energy and agriculture sectors.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Zaranj-Delaram Highway<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Built in <\/span><b>2009<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the <\/span><b>218 km road<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> connects Afghanistan to Iran\u2019s <\/span><b>Chabahar Port<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, facilitating trade and bypassing Pakistan.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constructed by India\u2019s <\/span><b>Border Roads Organization<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Afghan Parliament Building<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Inaugurated in <\/span><b>2015<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, this landmark project cost <\/span><b>\u20b9970 crore<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and stands as a symbol of India\u2019s commitment to Afghan democracy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Shahtoot Dam Project<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Announced in <\/span><b>2021<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, this dam is planned to provide <\/span><b>drinking water to Kabul<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and support irrigation for nearby regions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Community Development Projects<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>High-Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Since <\/span><b>2005<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, India has implemented over <\/span><b>400 projects<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in all <\/span><b>34 provinces<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, focusing on education, healthcare, agriculture, and water management.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Example: Construction of schools, healthcare centers, and water supply systems.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Trade and Connectivity<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Chabahar Port<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Operationalized in <\/span><b>2017<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, it facilitates Afghanistan\u2019s access to international markets and India\u2019s trade with Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Air Freight Corridor<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Launched in <\/span><b>2017<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, this corridor enables the export of Afghan goods like dry fruits, carpets, and medicinal plants to India.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Educational and Capacity-Building Programs<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Scholarships for Afghan Students<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Since <\/span><b>2005<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, India has offered <\/span><b>1,000 ICCR scholarships annually<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to Afghan students.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By 2023, thousands of Afghan students have graduated from Indian universities.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Technical Training<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: India provides <\/span><b>Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> training slots for Afghan professionals, focusing on governance and administration.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Supported the establishment of the <\/span><b>Afghan National Agricultural Sciences and Technology University (ANASTU)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in <\/span><b>2014<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Health and Humanitarian Assistance<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Medical Aid<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: India established a <\/span><b>Medical Diagnostic Center<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Kabul in <\/span><b>2015<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provided <\/span><b>COVID-19 vaccines<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, polio vaccines, and medicines, along with <\/span><b>50,000 MT of wheat<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for food security during the pandemic in <\/span><b>2020-2021<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Food Security and Nutrition<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Since <\/span><b>2002<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, India has supported the <\/span><b>UN World Food Programme<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, delivering high-protein biscuits to Afghan schoolchildren.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><span style=\"font-size: 15pt;\"><b>Defense and Security Cooperation<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Military Equipment<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: India gifted <\/span><b>Mi-25 attack helicopters<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to the Afghan Air Force in <\/span><b>2015-2016<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to bolster their defense capabilities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Training Afghan Security Forces<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Since <\/span><b>2011<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, India has trained Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) personnel at institutions like the <\/span><b>National Defence Academy (NDA)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and the <\/span><b>Indian Military Academy (IMA)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><\/div>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"vc_button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books\/upsc-textbooks?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+Textbooks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Challenges in India-Afghanistan Relations:\u00a0<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Security Concerns: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Afghanistan\u2019s unstable political environment has allowed <\/span><b>terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISKP)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to operate, posing threats to India\u2019s national security.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Kandahar hijacking (1999)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and attacks on Indian assets in Afghanistan underscore the security risks posed by extremist groups.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Influence of Pakistan: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pakistan uses Afghanistan as a tool for <\/span><b>strategic depth<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and supports groups hostile to India, such as the<\/span><b> Haqqani Network, <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">complicating India\u2019s engagement.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pakistan\u2019s ties with the Taliban and its alleged role in supporting terrorism have created an environment unfavorable for India\u2019s strategic goals in the region.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Taliban\u2019s Internal Policies: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Taliban\u2019s lack of commitment to an <\/span><b>inclusive government<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>human rights violations<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, especially against women and minorities, make it challenging for India to justify diplomatic engagement.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India has consistently advocated for an <\/span><b>Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which contrasts with the Taliban\u2019s exclusionary governance.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Regional Rivalries and External Influences: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Countries like <\/span><b>China<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>Russia<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>Iran<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> have increased their influence in Afghanistan, potentially sidelining India\u2019s strategic and economic interests.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">China\u2019s involvement in Afghanistan\u2019s <\/span><b>natural resource projects<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) threatens to undermine India\u2019s economic engagement in the region.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Connectivity and Trade Barriers: Geographical constraints<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and Pakistan\u2019s refusal to allow transit trade to Afghanistan have hindered India\u2019s access to Afghan markets.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The reliance on <\/span><b>Chabahar Port<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and the <\/span><b>Zaranj-Delaram Highway<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for trade underscores the difficulties India faces in establishing reliable and cost-effective connectivity.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Way Forward for India-Afghanistan Relations<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Maintain Pragmatic Engagement with the Taliban: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Continue engaging the Taliban at the <\/span><b>diplomatic and functional level<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to safeguard India\u2019s strategic interests while avoiding formal recognition of the regime.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus on ensuring Afghan soil is not used for <\/span><b>anti-India activities<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such as harboring terrorist groups like <\/span><b>LeT<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>JeM<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>ISKP<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Enhance Humanitarian Assistance: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expand aid efforts in <\/span><b>healthcare<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>education<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>food security<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to strengthen people-to-people ties and foster goodwill.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus on high-impact, community-oriented projects such as schools, hospitals, and clean water systems.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Strengthen Regional Partnerships: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Collaborate with countries like <\/span><b>Iran<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>Russia<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>Central Asian nations<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to stabilize Afghanistan and counterbalance <\/span><b>China\u2019s growing influence<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in the region.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leverage platforms like <\/span><b>SAARC<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>SCO<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for coordinated action on trade and security.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Secure Investments and Connectivity: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Safeguard India\u2019s <\/span><b>$3 billion investments<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Afghan infrastructure, including the <\/span><b>Salma Dam<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>Zaranj-Delaram Highway<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and other projects.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Promote the use of <\/span><b>Chabahar Port<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to bolster Afghanistan\u2019s trade access and India\u2019s connectivity to Central Asia.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Support Inclusive Governance and Human Rights: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Advocate for the formation of an <\/span><b>inclusive government<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that respects <\/span><b>women\u2019s rights<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>minority protections<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while cautiously engaging with the Taliban on these issues.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Collaborate with Afghan civil society to build long-term institutional and social frameworks.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Focus on Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Work closely with regional powers to prevent the resurgence of terrorism in Afghanistan.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Share intelligence and strengthen the <\/span><b>Afghan security apparatus<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to counter extremist groups and protect India\u2019s national security.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"vc_button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pw.live\/batches\/upsc\/pw-only-ias?utm_source=seo+upsc+batch&#038;utm_medium=seo+upsc&#038;utm_campaign=seo&#038;utm_id=upsc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Conclusion<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Taliban\u2019s permanence in Afghanistan\u2019s governance necessitates pragmatic engagement. India should expand its humanitarian, economic, and diplomatic outreach under its <\/span><b>Act West policy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> while carefully navigating regional and global challenges.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"vc_table_green\"><\/p>\n<table style=\"width: 99.6375%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 111.19%; text-align: center;\" colspan=\"2\"><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\"><b>Also Read<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 49.797%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/editorial-analysis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>UPSC Daily Editorials<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 61.393%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/daily-current-affairs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>UPSC Daily Current Affairs<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 49.797%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/quiz\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Daily Current Affairs Quiz<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 61.393%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/mains-answer-writing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Daily Main Answer Writing<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 49.797%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books\/upsc-previous-year-papers?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+Previous+Year+Papers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Check Out Previous Years Papers From PW Store<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 61.393%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/upsc-test-series-courses\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>UPSC Test Series<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 49.797%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books\/upsc-textbooks?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+Textbooks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Check Out UPSC NCERT Textbooks From PW Store<\/b><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 61.393%; text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/store.pw.live\/govt-entrance-exams\/upsc-books\/upsc-modules?utm_source=SEO&#038;utm_medium=PW+Live&#038;utm_campaign=UPSC+Modules\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store<\/b><\/a><b>\u00a0<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Indian Foreign Secretary met with the Taliban\u2019s acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":151233,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_lock_modified_date":false,"footnotes":""},"tags":[],"paper-wise":[2084],"subject":[2102],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/current-affairs\/151126"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/current-affairs"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/current-affairs"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=151126"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/current-affairs\/151126\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":151236,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/current-affairs\/151126\/revisions\/151236"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/151233"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=151126"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=151126"},{"taxonomy":"paper-wise","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/paper-wise?post=151126"},{"taxonomy":"subject","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pwonlyias.com\/stage\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/subject?post=151126"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}