India Reopens Full Embassy in Kabul

• India has reopened its full-fledged embassy in Kabul , marking its first complete diplomatic return to Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover in August 2021 . The move reflects New Delhi’s effort to safeguard its strategic and developmental interests while countering Chinese and Pakistani influence in the region.

Key Points

Formal Reopening:

• Senior diplomat Karan Yadav has been appointed as Chargé d’Affaires , leading India’s mission in Kabul. The embassy currently houses about a dozen officials , supported by 50–60 Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel for security.

Strategic Objectives:

• The reopening aims to monitor regional developments and counter the presence of China and Pakistan in Afghanistan. The mission will closely track activities of groups like the Taliban, TTP, LeT, and ISKP . India has not recognised the Taliban regime , aligning with the stance of most global powers.

Protecting Investments and Projects:
India seeks to oversee its ₹22,000 crore worth of development projects in Afghanistan, including:

• Salma Dam (India-Afghanistan Friendship Dam)

• Afghan Parliament Building

• Educational and healthcare institutions

• Chabahar trade corridor , providing a route to Central Asia via Iran

The embassy’s return ensures continuity of humanitarian aid and development cooperation with Afghanistan.

GK Facts

• India has invested ₹22,000 crore in Afghanistan since 2001.

• The Salma Dam , inaugurated in 2016, was renamed the India-Afghanistan Friendship Dam .

• The Chabahar Port enables India to access Afghanistan bypassing Pakistan.

• India evacuated its embassy staff from Kabul in August 2021 after the Taliban’s takeover.

In summary:
India’s reopening of its embassy in Kabul marks a strategic diplomatic comeback , reinforcing its long-term commitment to Afghanistan’s reconstruction and maintaining influence in the evolving regional power balance .