Energy Factor of Indian Foreign Policy Towards Central Asia

The article examines the energy factor in India's foreign policy in Central Asia, analyzes the place of India in the energy market of Central Asia, Indian energy strategies in Central Asia, and factors in India's energy policy. In addition, the author studied the priorities of India's foreign policy in Central Asia. India's growing economy creates increasing demand for energy and natural resources to sustain economic momentum. Central Asia's large hydrocarbon reserves and energy resources make the region strategically attractive for India to develop mutually beneficial cooperative relationships based on shared democratic values, secularism, and common security interests in combating terrorism and drug trafficking. Recognizing the strategic importance of Central Asia, India has launched several policy frameworks including the "Extended Neighborhood," "Immediate and Strategic Neighbourhood," "Look North Policy," and the latest "Connect Central Asia" initiative to establish its presence in the region and pursue its multifaceted geopolitical and geostrategic interests.