India-Afghanistan Knot in South Asia: Implications for Pakistan 2000-2014

Abstract

Afghanistan is a landlocked country in South Asia. Pakistan is located in its South and East. Afghanistan has always been central in the global power politics due to its strategic and economic importance as it is considered as a land bridge for oil, natural gas and trade rout. After 9/11 incident, US invasion in Afghanistan led to instability in the region of South Asia. Two big powers of South Asia i.e. India and Pakistan have conflict over Afghanistan due to their conflict of interests. India has always been interested in Afghanistan due to its strategic importance and its role has been increasing. On the other hand, Pakistan is facing security threats due to some disputes with Afghanistan such as Durand line dispute, increased Indian role and intervention in internal affairs. Further, instability in Afghanistan has impact on Pakistan’s stability. It can be analyzed that throughout history, India and Afghanistan had good bilateral relation as India has worked for rebuilding of Afghanistan and involved in various developmental projects. India Afghanistan nexus will benefit India as India would be able to establish its influence in Afghanistan through its intelligence agencies. This paper endeavors to search the dynamics of Afghanistan’s tilt towards India after US led war on terrorism in Afghanistan. It also examines the factors of Pakistan concern over India- Afghanistan bond. This paper aims at to explain the role of India in Afghanistan to undermine Pakistan influence. The main question of the paper is to see what are the factors/variables involved in the Afghanistan- India nexus. Also, through qualitative and descriptive analysis, it has been inferred that the new great game in Afghanistan by India is continuously upsetting the balance of power in South Asia. It may cause further instability in the region. This research paper helps to comprehend Indian strategic interests in Afghanistan and its implications for Pakistan. Moreover, it is suggested that if Pakistan develops a moderate policy while becoming facilitator for Afghan peace process and development then Indian influence can be countered.