Global politics in the second half of 2026 is going through a highly sensitive and multi-dimensional phase. On one side, conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war, rising tensions in the Middle East and the Israel-Iran confrontation are disrupting global supply chains. On the other, the United States is tightening sanctions on countries such as China and Russia while increasing policy pressure on countries like India through stricter immigration and visa measures, including proposals to raise H-1B fees.
Against this challenging backdrop, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s four-day visit to Tashkent in Uzbekistan and Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan, along with his participation in the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, has placed India’s policy of strategic autonomy at the centre of international diplomatic attention.
1. Rising Tensions With the US and West Amid Global Crises
The ongoing geopolitical crises have made strategic balancing increasingly complicated for India.
US Protectionism and H-1B Visa Restrictions
Proposals for a significant increase in H-1B visa fees and tighter immigration policies in the United States have raised concerns among Indian IT professionals and multinational companies.
While Washington views India as an important partner in the Indo-Pacific and the Quad, its increasingly protectionist approach on trade and immigration presents a challenge for New Delhi.
Russia-Ukraine War and Middle East Crisis
The economic fallout of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and instability in the Middle East has also affected India’s strategic interests.
Western sanctions on Russia and Iran, including the threat of secondary sanctions, could have implications for India’s energy imports and connectivity initiatives such as the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
3. Central Asia: India’s Extended Neighbourhood and SECURE Vision
India views Central Asia as part of its extended neighbourhood and has been seeking to deepen economic, security and connectivity partnerships with the region.
During bilateral engagements with Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov, India has reiterated its broader SECURE vision, centred on security, economic cooperation, connectivity, unity, respect for sovereignty and environmental protection.
Strengthening Counter-Terrorism Cooperation
The Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) of the SCO provides a platform for cooperation against cross-border terrorism, radicalisation and drug trafficking.
Digital Infrastructure and Critical Minerals
India is also seeking greater cooperation with Central Asian nations in areas such as Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), artificial intelligence and critical minerals.
The Indian UPI model could offer opportunities for digital-payment cooperation, while partnerships in uranium and other critical minerals could strengthen India’s long-term energy and strategic-security interests.
Conclusion: India’s ‘Vishwabandhu’ Approach in a Multipolar World
With the US adopting stricter immigration and economic policies on one side and China and Russia deepening their strategic alignment on the other, India is attempting to position itself as an independent and balanced power.
From Tashkent to Bishkek, New Delhi’s broader message is clear: amid growing global uncertainty, India does not want to be confined to any single geopolitical camp. Instead, it seeks to pursue its national interests while contributing to global peace, strategic stability and inclusive development.
