India strengthens ties with Taliban amidst challenges

Source: The post India strengthens ties with Taliban amidst challenges has been created, based on the article “India-Taliban talks — realism in Acting West” published in “Indian Express” on 10th January 2025

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- International Relations- India and its neighbourhood- relations.

Context: The article discusses India’s growing engagement with the Taliban, highlighted by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s meeting. It examines regional tensions, Pakistan’s challenges with the TTP, and India’s humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, emphasizing the need for strategic cooperation despite non-recognition.
For detailed information on India-Afghanistan Relations read this article here

What was the significance of Vikram Misri’s meeting with the Taliban?

1. Elevated Dialogue: The meeting marked a shift from functional-level talks to senior-level engagement with the Taliban.
2. Geopolitical Context: It came after India condemned Pakistani airstrikes in Afghanistan, which killed women and children.

What challenges is Pakistan facing?

1. Taliban Support for TTP: The Taliban supports the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has 6,000–6,500 fighters attacking Pakistan from Afghanistan.
2. Border Tensions: The Taliban refuses to recognize the Durand Line, dismissing Pakistani demands for border crossings with documents.
3. Aggression Allegations: Pakistan’s airstrikes in Afghanistan, aimed at TTP camps, are labeled as “aggression” by Kabul, straining relations.
4. Backfiring Policies: Pakistan’s past support for the Taliban during the Soviet era has led to threats on its western flank.
5. Internal Instability: Rising TTP attacks fueled by Pashtun nationalism challenge Pakistan’s security.

What is the global response to the Taliban?

1. The Taliban has not received formal recognition internationally.
2. The UN Credentials Committee rejected their recognition request for the fourth consecutive year.
3. Comparisons are made with Syria’s Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which is being engaged by diplomats despite its human rights violations.
4. Links between the Taliban, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and al-Qaeda hinder recognition efforts.
5. Nations like China, Russia, Iran, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan interact with the Taliban through local missions.
6. After the Taliban’s takeover, India had recalled all its personnel but later restituted its presence in Kabul by dispatching a “technical team” to its embassy in 2022.

What role does India play in Afghanistan’s humanitarian needs?

1. India has provided essential aid like wheat, medicines, vaccines, blankets, and stationery.
2. It sent Covid and polio vaccines, anti-tuberculosis medicines, and surgical items.
3. Rs 200 crore was allocated for Afghanistan in the 2024-25 Union Budget.
4. India supports refugee rehabilitation and Afghanistan’s health sector.
5. Pakistan’s expulsion of 5,00,000 refugees worsened the humanitarian crisis.

How can India strengthen its position in Afghanistan?

1. Leverage Cricket Diplomacy: Strengthen ties by supporting Afghan players in the IPL and fostering youth engagement through cricket.
2. Partner with Iran: Use Chabahar Port for trade and humanitarian aid, collaborating closely with Iran.
3. Resume Development Projects: Capitalize on traditional friendship by reviving infrastructure and development initiatives.

Question for practice:

Examine how India’s growing engagement with the Taliban reflects its strategic priorities and humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan.