Afghanistan Joins CPEC: India’s Strategic Challenge in South Asia

AFGHANISTAN JOIN DRAGON-SCORPION AXIS

What Is Going on in Afghanistan and CPEC Nowadays?

    In May 2025, the Taliban-led government of Afghanistan joined the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), an important part of China's Belt and Road Initiative. The agreement, signed in Beijing, connects Afghanistan with China and Pakistan with a view to enhancing trade and infrastructure. But trade and infrastructure are only one aspect here: it is basically a strong counterplan for shifting power dynamics in South Asia and bringing heat upon India.

    CPEC links the Xinjiang region of China and Gwadar Port in Pakistan. Now that Afghanistan has come on board, China would benefit from the access granted to the vast mineral deposits of that country, such as lithium, which has great importance for tech industries. This, however, raises a significant concern for India concerning possible loss of influence in Afghanistan and increasing pressure against its rivals.

Why is this significant for India?

    India has poured billions into Afghanistan with the intention of developing goodwill by building roads, dams, and schools. The Zaranj-Delaram Highway and Afghan Parliament Building are projects that can showcase India's commitment. However, Afghanistan's affiliation with CPEC may render these projects as peripheral.

• Geopolitical Squeeze: China and Pakistan are pressing down on India, now influencing its interests all the way from sea ports to the land routes of Afghanistan.
• Mineral competition: Whereas Chinese access to Afghan minerals will restrict Indian access, it will also hinder the technological and industrial development of India.
• Security risks: The agreement could spawn problems in Kashmir and threats through terror groups operating from Afghanistan.
• Trade complications: India's Chabahar Port and INSTC were charted to primarily operate against Pakistan but today have to contend with the growing network of CPEC.

Way Forward For India

    India will have to come up with a smart, multi-pronged strategy to remain solid within a changing region. Here is how:

1. Strengthen Alliances: Involve the USA, Japan and Australia more through the Quad to counter Chinese moves.
2. Engage the Taliban: Giving aid in exchange for security commitments keeps India in the game from a diplomatic perspective.
3. Boost Self-Reliance: Have local industries reaping the raw material benefits of global mineral supplies.
4. Fortify Borders: Speeding up of roads and defense projects will lead the way in addressing border challenges regarding security.
5. Keep Chabahar Alive: Work with Iran on issues of US sanctions to keep this commercial route alive.

What then? The next South Asia Avowal

    The China-Pakistan-Taliban nexus seeks to undermine India's role. By acting quickly on strengthening partnerships, developing the economy, and modernizing defenses, India can secure its interests and remain a key player in South Asia.

    The going has gotten tough, but with audacity and clear thinking, India can find opportunities in adversity. Keep watching this space in the grandest of high-stakes geopolitical chess matches.