New Delhi, March 5, 2025:
The Centre of Central Asian Studies (CCAS) at the University of Kashmir recently hosted an insightful address by Prof. (Dr.) Ramakant Dwivedi, Head of the MERI Centre for International Studies (CIS), New Delhi, and Director of the India Central Asia Foundation. His talk, “India’s Strategic Interests in Central Asia: Challenges and Opportunities,” took place on February 25, 2025, as part of a two-day international conference on “Trans-Himalayan Borderlands: Dynamics of Connectivity, Culture, and Change.”
The event brought together scholars from leading Indian institutions, including Jawaharlal Nehru University (New Delhi), Pondicherry University, and Jamia Millia Islamia (New Delhi), alongside experts from France, Australia, and Italy. Discussions centered around the evolving cultural, economic, and social landscapes of the Trans-Himalayan region, making for an engaging and thought-provoking gathering.
Prof. Dwivedi spoke passionately about the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between South and Central Asia, highlighting their continued relevance in today’s world. He emphasized the strategic importance of the Trans-Himalayan borderlands, not just in shaping regional histories and trade routes but also in influencing present-day geopolitical dynamics. He noted that academic exchanges like this conference help deepen our understanding of these long-standing connections.
He outlined India’s broad interests in Central Asia—spanning history, culture, geopolitics, and economics. While historical ties remain crucial, he stressed that staying informed about current developments in the region is essential for advancing mutual interests.
Reflecting on his personal experiences traveling through Central Asia, Prof. Dwivedi shared that the region consistently expresses warmth toward India and a strong desire to strengthen bilateral ties. He discussed India’s “Connect Central Asia” policy, which focuses on enhancing collaboration through trade, infrastructure, and energy partnerships. However, he acknowledged that both India and Central Asian nations have yet to fully tap into the immense economic potential that exists, calling for a more coordinated and strategic approach to strengthen ties.
The discussion wasn’t just about opportunities—Prof. Dwivedi also addressed pressing challenges, particularly the threats posed by religious extremism and terrorism. He underscored India’s ongoing cooperation with Central Asian nations to tackle instability in Afghanistan, terrorism, and political unrest. To bridge geographical barriers, he advocated for the expansion of digital highways and emphasized the strategic role of Iran’s Chabahar port. This key transit hub, he explained, would reduce the distance between India and Central Asia by 1,500 km, significantly boosting connectivity and trade.
Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, expressed her gratitude to Prof. Dwivedi for his engaging and insightful presentation. She honored him with a plaque and bouquet, reaffirming the importance of dialogue in tackling global challenges and fostering economic cooperation.
The event saw an enthusiastic response from over 100 scholars from the University of Kashmir, who actively participated in discussions on strengthening India-Central Asia relations. The conference was a meaningful step toward fostering deeper academic and policy-driven engagement between India and Central Asia, highlighting the importance of sustained dialogue and collaboration for the future.
