India has formally confirmed its exit from the Ayni air base in Tajikistan, marking the end of two decades of operations in Central Asia. The base, once seen as a strategic foothold near Afghanistan, played a key role in India’s regional defense outreach. What led to India’s presence at this crucial location, and why did it decide to pull out in 2022? Palki Sharma explores the history, significance, and implications of India’s withdrawal from the Ayni base.
