India’s pursuit of diverse and secure energy sources is becoming increasingly important as domestic demand rises and geopolitical dynamics shift. As one of the fastest-growing energy consumers in the world, India faces structural challenges in meeting its oil and natural gas needs through domestic production alone. Therefore, it is important to expedite the alternative energy partnerships, which have become a vital part of India’s energy strategy.

In this regard, Central Asia is a compelling partner. This region, which includes resource-rich countries such as Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, has substantial hydrocarbon reserves, particularly natural gas. Its proximity to India, along with ongoing regional connectivity projects, makes it a more suitable long-term energy partner. Additionally, engaging with Central Asia fits with India’s broader goal of reducing reliance on traditional suppliers in the Middle East, thereby improving energy security through diversification.

The importance of this strategic focus was clearly conveyed in policy and academic discussions around 2019, a period marked by renewed attention to India’s “Connect Central Asia” policy. This initiative emphasized the need to strengthen economic, political, and energy connections with Central Asian countries. Actions such as participating in multilateral forums, investing in upstream energy projects, and proposing pipeline projects (like the TAPI-Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India pipeline) illustrate India’s aim of formalizing its engagement in the region.

Recent developments in the TAPI Pipeline show real progress in its phased rollout. The pipeline has been completed on the Turkmenistan section, highlighting significant progress on the supply side. In late 2024, the Taliban government began construction activities in Afghanistan, including laying about 14 kilometers of pipeline in the Serhetabat-Herat segment. This phase was further supported by the import of additional pipeline equipment, signalling a strong commitment to advancing the project despite ongoing geopolitical challenges. Regarding its planned operational framework, the pipeline is designed to allocate 42% of its natural gas output to India and Pakistan, with Afghanistan expected to receive the remaining 16%, underscoring its dual role as both a transit country and a beneficiary of regional energy integration.

However, despite its potential, this approach faces several challenges. Geopolitical instability, infrastructural limitations, and complex regional politics, especially involving transit countries, pose significant obstacles to the smooth integration of energy. Therefore, while Central Asia offers promising opportunities, India must adopt a comprehensive strategy that includes diplomatic engagement, infrastructural development, and regional cooperation to effectively use these resources.

Specifically, building broader energy partnerships with Central Asia is crucial for India, both practically and strategically. It promotes energy diversification and strengthens India’s geopolitical influence in a region gaining global importance.

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