United States bats for bigger role by India in war-torn Afghanistan

The US Senate Armed Services Committee has reckoned that India can work closely with the US and Afghanistan in ensuring more security and stability in the war-torn country and surrounding region.

The Committee has called on the United States to tap the capabilities of its allies and partners to more effectively secure regional stability and security. 

India, which is as a regional partner to Afghanistan and a major defense partner of the US, is "well-suited" to take part in the role and work on a "trilateral basis with the US and Afghanistan," says a committee report attached to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) 2018, reports Sputnik. 

Praising India's efforts in Afghanistan, Gen John W. Nicholson, commander of US forces in Afghanistan, testified before the committee praising India's development aid contribution and investments in helping rebuild Afghanistan. The report also highlighted that India is well placed to fill the short-term material and training gaps of the Afghan Air Force.

Indian assistance in Afghanistan can come in a variety of forms such as "logistical support; joint training; combined military planning; threat analysis; intelligence, material, and maintenance support for Afghan National Defense and Security Forces for humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, security assistance, and any other areas deemed appropriate," the report added.