Relational Control: India's Grand Strategy in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The article presents an exploration of India's foreign policy regarding assistance to Afghanistan during the early 21st century. Discussion is offered outlining the major features of Indian-Afghan relations, particularly in regards to Pakistan. The foreign policy framework of "relational control," first proposed by political scientist Maya Chadda, is defined and applied to India's initiatives in the region. An evaluation of India's strategy of relational control regarding Pakistan is included. A survey of India's historical relationship with Afghanistan is also cited. Conclusions suggest India's major policy aim is to deny similar beneficial relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan.