Q.11. How will the withdrawal of U.S. Troops from Afghanistan affect India? Comment.

The withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan has significant implications for India. Let’s delve into the details:

1. Security Concerns:
   • The U.S. military presence in Afghanistan acted as a check on extremist forces. With their departure, there is a risk of increased instability in the region.
   • India shares a long border with Afghanistan, and any rise in violence or extremist activities could directly impact India’s security.
2. Strategic Shifts:
   • The U.S. administration aims to shift its focus away from the Middle East and towards the Indo-Pacific, considering China as its primary competitor.
   • India’s strategic interests align with the U.S. in countering China’s influence in the region. The withdrawal may alter the balance of power.
3. Economic and Trade Opportunities:
   • A stable Afghanistan would have facilitated trade routes and connectivity between India, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.
   • The withdrawal may disrupt these economic opportunities, affecting India’s regional trade and energy projects.
4. Geopolitical Competition:
   • The Indo-Pacific region is crucial for both India and the U.S. in terms of geopolitical influence.
   • The withdrawal opens up space for other actors (including China and Pakistan) to assert their interests in Afghanistan, potentially impacting India’s position.

In summary, while the U.S. withdrawal allows Afghanistan to determine its own future, India must navigate security challenges, adapt to strategic shifts, and explore alternative avenues for regional cooperation.