REGIONAL COOPERATION AND INTEGRATION IN CENTRAL ASIA: AN INDIAN PERSPECTIVE

Central Asia, a vast region comprising Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan occupies a critical geopolitical and economic space in Eurasia. India, with its rising power status, has strategically engaged with the region, focusing on energy security, trade, counter-terrorism and geopolitical influence. As part of its “Connect Central Asia” policy, India has sought to expand its ties and foster regional integration. This article examines India’s approach to regional cooperation and integration in Central Asia, highlighting the opportunities and challenges that shape its foreign policy