Background
On May 1, 2021, the landscape of Afghanistan underwent a significant transformation as the Taliban and various allied militant factions launched a sweeping offensive across the country. This simultaneous military campaign coincided with the commencement of the United States' decision to withdraw the bulk of its troops from Afghanistan, a strategy that had been set in motion after decades of military involvement aimed at stabilizing the region. The withdrawal was part of a broader peace agreement, known as the Doha Agreement, which had been signed in February 2020 between the U.S. government and the Taliban, envisioning an end to foreign military presence in Afghanistan.
As the U.S. withdrawal progressed, the Taliban rapidly gained ground, seizing control of major cities and regions previously held by Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF). This rapid advance raised alarm bells internationally, as it signified a potential rollback of years of development progress in Afghanistan, including women's rights and education advancements. By mid-August 2021, the Taliban's offensive culminated in the takeover of Kabul, the capital city, leading to the collapse of the Afghan government and prompting a humanitarian crisis as thousands of Afghans scrambled for safety.
The situation was further compounded by the exodus of international organizations and NGOs, which had been instrumental in providing stability, healthcare, and education to the Afghani people. Without foreign support, the capacity of local institutions to manage the increasing needs of the population was severely strained. The Taliban's rise also raised urgent concerns regarding the city's safety, particularly for ethnic and religious minorities, women, and former government officials who feared reprisals. This sequence of events not only highlighted the complexities of Afghan politics but also brought to the forefront the crucial question of future international engagement in a Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.
Kabul Airlift Efforts by India
As the security situation in Kabul deteriorated rapidly, India executed a significant evacuation operation, known as Operation Devi Shakti, which managed to airlift over 800 people from the troubled region. This operation highlighted India's commitment to ensure the safety of its citizens and the vulnerable Afghan community, including minority groups like Sikhs and Hindus, amidst the chaos following the Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan.
On 16 August, the Indian Air Force was quick to respond as it facilitated the airlift of 40 Indians from Kabul to Delhi. This timely evacuation was crucial as the situation in Kabul was rapidly deteriorating, leading to growing concerns for the safety and wellbeing of those on the ground. On the following day, the Indian military's C-17 Globemaster III aircraft took to the skies to further aid in the evacuation efforts. A total of 168 individuals, including 107 Indians, along with 23 Afghan Sikhs and Hindus, were transported to Hindan Air Force Station near Delhi. This operation underscored the multi-faceted approach India adopted, ensuring that not just its citizens but also vulnerable community members received necessary assistance during these tumultuous times.
In the subsequent days, the efforts continued with further successful evacuations. A notable flight operated by Air India brought back 87 Indians and two Nepalese nationals from Dushanbe, Tajikistan. This flight was conducted just a day after these individuals were initially evacuated from Kabul to the Tajik capital using an Indian Air Force C-130J transport aircraft, showcasing the strategic planning and responsive actions of the Indian authorities. Additionally, on 21 August, another evacuation sustained the momentum as 78 people, comprising 25 Indians and a group of Afghan Sikhs and Hindus, were airlifted from Dushanbe, further emphasizing India's humanitarian approach during the crisis.
The Operation Devi Shakti represents not only a logistical achievement but also a significant diplomatic gesture by India, as it seeks to foster goodwill and uphold its responsibility towards its citizens and the frightened Afghan populace. This operation has set a precedent for future humanitarian missions, reinforcing the importance of quick and decisive action in the face of emerging global crises.