Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.
Overview
- India–Iran ties transcend conventional diplomacy, rooted in shared ancient civilisations.
- Early Aryan communities shared language roots, myths, and worldviews before geographic separation.
- Strong parallels between the Avesta and Rigveda reflect this common cultural origin.
- Despite political disruptions, civilisational affinity preserved mutual trust and continuity.
Persian Legacy in the Indian Subcontinent
- Persian flourished in India as a language of governance, culture, and diplomacy.
- India nurtured Persian literature, enabling artistic and philosophical exchanges.
- Emergence of Sabk-e Hendi (Indian Style) enriched Persian poetry through Indo-Persian creativity.
- Mirza Abdul-Qadir Bedil Dehlavi symbolised this synthesis with philosophical and imaginative depth.
Geopolitical Context and Strategic Convergence
- Cultural nostalgia alone insufficient in today’s multipolar geopolitical order.
- Shifting global power dynamics have enhanced strategic relevance of Iran–India cooperation.
- Both nations positioned to shape regional stability and economic architecture.
Energy Security as Core Pillar
- India’s fast-growing economy requires reliable oil and gas supplies.
- Iran’s vast hydrocarbon reserves make it a natural long-term energy partner.
- Energy cooperation anchors economic interdependence and strategic trust.
Connectivity and Trade Architecture
- Chabahar Port symbolises shared commitment to maritime and regional connectivity.
- Iran is a critical node in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
- INSTC is 40% shorter and 30% cheaper than the Suez Canal route.
- Corridor strengthens India’s access to Russia, Central Asia, and Europe.
Security Cooperation and Strategic Autonomy
- Shared concerns over terrorism and extremism drive discreet security cooperation.
- Intelligence coordination supports stability in West and South Asia.
- Third-party pressures historically influenced relations but were managed through strategic prudence.
- Strengthening local currency trade mechanisms reduces external vulnerabilities.
Diversification into Knowledge and Technology
- Future cooperation must extend beyond oil-centric engagement.
- India offers strengths in information technology and knowledge industries.
- Iran contributes advances in nanotechnology and medical sciences.
- Innovation-driven collaboration can transform ties from transactional to strategic partnerships.
Way Forward: From Legacy to Leadership
- Energy, connectivity, and counterterrorism now replace Silk Road and Persian language as pillars.
- On the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, deeper engagement is timely.
- A revitalised partnership can enhance regional stability and shared prosperity.