Context:
The visit of Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to New Delhi marks the first officially acknowledged engagement between India and the Taliban since their takeover in August 2021. The visit signals cautious diplomatic outreach while regional security and humanitarian concerns remain unresolved.
Key Highlights / Details
India’s Diplomatic Approach
- India has taken a step-by-step engagement strategy with the Taliban, prioritizing security, humanitarian aid, and regional stability.
- India seeks assurances against cross-border terrorism, especially from Pakistan-backed terror groups operating from Afghan soil.
- India has not formally recognized the Taliban government but maintains functional engagement through humanitarian and developmental channels.
Terror and Regional Security Concerns
- The Taliban has shown reluctance in taking action against anti-India terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
- The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) continues to attack Pakistan despite Taliban mediation attempts.
- Taliban claims to prevent Afghan territory from being used for terrorism, but Haqqani Network influence and ISKP threats continue.
Humanitarian and Development Cooperation
- India has committed 50,000 tonnes of wheat and medical aid to Afghanistan.
- India reopened technical teams in Kabul to oversee humanitarian assistance.
- Taliban has announced 1,000 scholarships for Afghan students to study in India.
Women’s Rights and Education
- Women’s education remains suspended in Afghanistan; India stressed the need for inclusive governance and women’s rights.
- Taliban continues restrictions despite international pressure.
Geo-Political Dimensions
- The Taliban is trying to reduce overdependence on Pakistan and move towards a balanced regional foreign policy.
- India sees an opportunity to counter China-Pakistan influence and prevent Afghanistan from becoming a hub of extremism.
- Stability in Afghanistan aligns with India’s Connect Central Asia Policy and Eurasian strategy.
Relevant Prelims Points
- Durand Line: Border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
- Haqqani Network: Militant wing of Taliban, linked to terror attacks.
- Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP): Militant group targeting Pakistan.
- Doha Agreement (2020): Peace deal between U.S. and Taliban.
- Chabahar Port: India’s strategic access to Afghanistan bypassing Pakistan.
Relevant Mains Points
- India-Afghanistan relations post-2021: Strategic recalibration without formal recognition.
- India’s security concerns: Spillover terrorism, radicalization, Pakistan-Taliban nexus.
- Humanitarian diplomacy as foreign policy tool: Balancing ethics and national interest.
- Challenges of engaging Taliban: Legitimacy vs. ground realities vs. moral responsibility.