India's Withdrawal from the Ayni Airbase in Tajikistan

India has ceased its operations at the Ayni airbase in Tajikistan following the expiration of a bilateral agreement that allowed Indian personnel to be stationed there. The changing geopolitical landscape, particularly the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, reduced the strategic need for India's presence at the base.

Background and Usage of Ayni Airbase

• The Ayni airbase hosted a detachment of Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters, along with repair facilities and maintenance equipment.
• It primarily served as a logistics hub during the period when the Northern Alliance in Afghanistan was influential.
• The base was not used for combat missions, and there was no permanent presence of fighter aircraft. India stationed Mi17 helicopters to assist Tajikistan forces.

Current Status

• Following the Taliban's dominance in Afghanistan, the utility of the Ayni base diminished, leading to the non-renewal of India's operating agreement.
• Russian forces have taken control of the base after India's withdrawal.
• Complete withdrawal of Indian infrastructure and personnel was finalized by early 2023.

Historical Context

• In 1998, India established its first base in Tajikistan at Farkhor, which included an airstrip, helicopter unit, armament repair depot, and a military hospital.
• The Farkhor base played a crucial role in treating Afghan warriors from the Northern Alliance.
• The Farkhor base was closed around 2008, after which the Ayni base was set up.