Ancient Civilizational Bonds
The India-Afghanistan relationship extends far beyond modern politics or shifting borders. From ancient times, the two societies have shared language, traditions, food, sports, and even architecture. The concept of “Hindi-Afghan bhai bhai” is centuries old, dating back to the Mauryan Empire (322–185 BCE), when Kabul and Kandahar were vital centers of a united Indian civilization. Buddhism thrived here, with Afghanistan serving as a crucial center for Buddhist learning and religious exchange.
Trade and Cultural Exchange
Afghanistan historically served as the vital bridge between India and Central Asia. Trade routes—like the Silk Route—facilitated the movement of spices, textiles, marble, ideas, and culture, making Afghanistan a hub for regional connectivity. This prolific heritage continued under the Mughal Empire, with Kabul and Kandahar prized for their strategic and economic significance.
As a geographical buffer and commercial crossroads, Afghanistan’s prosperity through trade in spices, horses, textiles, and architectural styles mirrored the heights of Indo-Central Asian interaction.
Reconstruction and Modern Cooperation
After Indian independence, New Delhi played a vital role in Afghanistan’s reconstruction. Major projects include the Afghan Parliament Building ($90 million), Salma Dam ($290 million), and the 218-km Zaranj-Delaram Highway linking Afghanistan to Iran’s Chabahar port. India has also invested in schools, universities, scholarships, the Indira Gandhi Child Hospital, and provided medical aid during the Covid-19 crisis—along with over 400 small and medium ongoing investments.
Soft Power: Sports and Film
Shared love for sports and films deepens ties. Afghanistan’s cricket team is based in India, with the BCCI supporting both men’s and women’s squads. Bollywood, as Indian soft power, continues to foster goodwill and affinity for India across Afghan society.
Geopolitical Strategy and Security
Afghanistan remains central in India's geopolitical calculations—as a trusted partner and as a counterbalance to Pakistan’s destabilizing influence. India actively supports efforts to tackle terror groups like LeT and the Haqqani network, seeking to ensure regional stability and curb cross-border threats.
Afghanistan’s own tensions with Pakistan over Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and TTP militants can create strategic leverage points for India, especially amidst persistent India-Pakistan rivalry.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Despite deep-rooted ties, political instability and Afghanistan’s international isolation after the Taliban’s return make direct engagement difficult. Sanctions, lack of recognition, and the U.S. designating the Taliban as a terrorist group complicate economic and diplomatic cooperation. Financial transactions are slow and uncertain.
Nevertheless, both countries’ foreign ministers continue exploring avenues for renewed cooperation—in economics, security, education, and strategic operations—hoping to rebuild a resilient partnership.