This monograph studies
India`s economic relations with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan,
Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan. Endowed with rich hydrocarbon reserves, the
Central Asian republics provide India with a reliable alternative source of oil
and gas. Hydroelectric projects with Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, the two
republics rich in water resources, are also worth exploring. Besides energy,
there is scope for expanding cooperation to other areas for mutual benefit. The
share of trade with these republics in India`s total trade basket is meagre.
One of the major impediments in developing vibrant trade with the region is the
lack of direct transport links. Not surprisingly, the region`s strategic
location and rich resources have attracted international attention. Hence
India`s position in the region has to take into account the greater geopolitics
of oil and gas and the presence of the major external players in the region
like Russia, China and the United States.
Angira Sen Sarma is working as an Associate Fellow with the
Eurasian Studies programme of Observer Research Foundation, New Delhi. Her main
research area is Central Asia. She has been frequently writing on various
issues related to Central Asia. Presently, she is also pursuing her Ph.D. from
the Central Asian Studies Division, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.