Discuss the geostrategic significance of Afghanistan for India in the context of continental connectivity and access to Central Asia. How has the altered political landscape post-2021 affected India's connectivity and energy corridor ambitions? (Answer in 250 words)

Geostrategic Significance of Afghanistan: 1. To bypass obstacles of connectivity posed by Pakistan 2. Trade & Energy diversification with Central Asia Republics eg Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan Affected of Altered Political landscape [post-2021]: 1. Taliban authoritarianism → limited diplomacy options 2. Fear of Afghanistan becomig hub of Terrorism 3. Taliban-Pakistan nexus → threat to Indian territorial integrity

Affected of Altered Political Landscape [post-2021]: 4. Humanitarian Concerns of woman exploitation in Taliban 5. Inconsistencies in Good and Bad terrorism 6. Incusions of Chinese footprints in Hindu Kush mineral scramble India's Initiatives: 1. Engagement without Entanglement eg on humanitarian aid for hospitals SCO led Afghanistan check & engagements 2. Chabaor, INSTC for connectivity 3. IMEC for Middle East aspiration & European Afghanistan is a key for India to enlarged its diplomatic options in Central Asia, Middle East-

[Final continuation of answer 20]

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