India Emerges as Afghanistan’s Strongest Development Partner: Rajnath Singh at SCO Meet

In a powerful and reaffirming statement at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared India as Afghanistan’s largest regional development partner. This assertion not only highlights India’s continuing commitment to regional stability but also positions the country as a key contributor to Afghanistan’s socio-economic rebuilding efforts.

India’s Support to Afghanistan: A Longstanding Relationship

India’s role as Afghanistan’s development partner is not new. Over the past two decades, India has invested over USD 3 billion in developmental and humanitarian projects across Afghanistan. From critical infrastructure like highways, dams, and hospitals to education, agriculture, and capacity building, India’s involvement has been both strategic and humanitarian in nature.

The Defence Minister’s remarks at the SCO meet in Astana, Kazakhstan, underline the continuity of India’s engagement with Afghanistan, even amidst a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. His speech reflects India’s stance of solidarity and support for the Afghan people, particularly in times of crisis.

SCO Platform Echoes India’s Regional Intentions

Speaking before representatives of major regional powers, Singh stated that India Afghanistan development partner status stems not from politics but from the principle of regional responsibility. He emphasized that peace, security, and prosperity in Afghanistan are essential for overall regional stability.

Singh also used the platform to underscore that India’s development aid has always been guided by the welfare of the Afghan people. Despite the Taliban’s takeover, India has continued to provide humanitarian assistance, including food grains, essential medicines, and COVID-19 vaccines.

Key Indian Projects That Define the Development Partnership

India’s development partner role has been marked by several landmark initiatives, including:

• Salma Dam (Afghan-India Friendship Dam): A major hydroelectric and irrigation project in Herat Province.
• Zaranj-Delaram Highway: A 218-kilometer road built by the Border Roads Organisation to improve trade access for landlocked Afghanistan.
• Parliament Building in Kabul: An architectural and symbolic gift showcasing India’s respect for Afghan democracy.
• Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health and other hospitals: Serving thousands of Afghans annually.

India’s Strategic but People-Centric Approach

India’s approach has been notably different from other regional players. Rather than getting involved in military interventions, India has focused on sustainable, long-term investments aimed at strengthening civilian institutions, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

According to Singh, India Afghanistan development partner dynamics are deeply rooted in mutual respect and historical ties. He reiterated that India’s aid is not transactional but transformative, aimed at creating lasting impact on the lives of ordinary Afghans.

Security Cooperation and Regional Challenges

Rajnath Singh also touched upon the importance of combating terrorism and maintaining regional security. He stressed that a secure Afghanistan is vital for peace in the SCO region, especially in countering threats like cross-border terrorism, extremism, and narcotics trafficking.

The Defence Minister urged all SCO members to collectively ensure that Afghanistan does not become a breeding ground for terrorism. India’s developmental role is aligned with this goal — by investing in people, institutions, and infrastructure, India aims to create a buffer against radicalization and instability.

International Recognition of India’s Role

India’s role as Afghanistan’s development partner has been recognized globally. From the United Nations to the United States, international actors have praised India’s civilian-focused aid and non-interventionist model. It has earned India the goodwill of millions of Afghans and has laid a strong foundation for future diplomatic engagement.

Looking Ahead: Development as Diplomacy

Rajnath Singh concluded his SCO address by emphasizing India’s belief in development as diplomacy. He reaffirmed India’s readiness to continue being a reliable partner for Afghanistan, irrespective of political changes on the ground.

With Afghanistan facing immense humanitarian and economic challenges, India’s continued engagement as a development partner provides hope for a better future. The sentiment at the SCO meet was clear — India remains committed to peace, progress, and people-centric partnerships.