India has announced that its diplomatic mission in Kabul has been formally restored to full embassy status, in a move aimed at expanding its contribution to Afghanistan’s development, humanitarian assistance, and capacity-building initiatives, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs.
“The Embassy of India in Kabul will further augment India’s contribution to Afghanistan’s comprehensive development, humanitarian assistance, and capacity-building initiatives, in keeping with the priorities and aspirations of Afghan society,” the statement read.
The decision, which took effect on October 21, follows the recent visit of Taliban foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to New Delhi.
During the visit, both sides agreed to deepen cooperation in public health, education, infrastructure, and regional connectivity, marking a rare moment of public diplomacy between India and the Taliban-led administration.
Although India has not formally recognized the Taliban administration, New Delhi has consistently provided humanitarian support to Afghanistan since the fall of the previous government in 2021.
With the elevation of its technical team in Kabul to full embassy status, it is not known whether New Delhi will begin its consular service in Kabul.
At their meeting in New Delhi earlier this month, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to Afghanistan’s recovery. He announced a new assistance package that includes 20 ambulances, MRI and CT scan equipment, vaccines, and cancer medicines, as well as support for drug rehabilitation programs through the United Nations.
India has also pledged to assist in rebuilding homes for Afghan refugees forcibly repatriated from neighboring countries and committed to providing food assistance and earthquake relief materials.
“India is fully committed to the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Afghanistan,” Jaishankar said during the meeting. “Closer cooperation between us contributes to your national development as well as regional stability.”
The two sides also discussed new areas of cooperation, including water management, mining exploration, and enhanced trade and commercial ties. India has committed to expanding educational exchanges and announced a new visa module, introduced in April 2025, which facilitates easier access for Afghan students, medical travelers, and business visitors.
India closed its embassy in Kabul in August 2021 after the Taliban’s return to power, citing security concerns. In June 2022, it deployed a technical team to maintain a minimal diplomatic presence and coordinate aid. The restoration of full embassy status is the clearest sign yet of India’s intent to reestablish a broader diplomatic and development presence in the country.
Analysts say the move is also driven by India’s regional strategic calculus, as neighboring powers like China and Pakistan deepen their own engagement with the Taliban.
Despite the upgrade, officials in New Delhi have not commented on the future of Afghanistan’s own diplomatic presence in India. The Afghan embassy in New Delhi, formerly staffed by representatives of the previous government, ceased operations in 2023 and has not been officially transferred to Taliban-appointed diplomats.
