New policy of Barack Obama is to undo part of Bush mistake of over focusing on military efforts to counter terrorism originating from Afghanistan. This new comprehensive strategy touted by Obama Administration relies on nation building, though they do not call it so. America is hoping that India will work with them, as India is already involved in infrastructure development in Afghanistan.

Senior officials in Obama administration are acknowledging that winning the hearts and minds of the Afghanistan population will be imperative in the war against terror. al Qaeda is supported by Taliban in Afghanistan, and population is not very happy with the heavy handed approach adopted by America so far. US wants India to be a key stakeholder in this beleaguered country.

On his Washington visit, Shyam Saran, Indian Prime Minister’s special envoy, had expressed concerns that US may give up in Afghanistan. He said further that US should not solely depend on military policy to combat terrorism there, but should emulate India’s ongoing effort of developing the country.

Richard Broucher, Assistant Secretary of State of Obama administration, who is handing South Asia, told reports recently that “we recognize India’s strong interest in stopping terrorism in the region”.

He also acknowledged India’s contribution of $1.2 Billion towards rehabilitation and reconstruction in Afghanistan, adding “They’ve been very instrumental in key areas like training, civil service, and helping build Afghan institutions. So, we see a continuing role for India and we certainly see a strong interest in India”.

Broucher added “Let’s face it, the whole goal is to stop terrorism that threatens everybody in the region, including India, and we all recognize that’s going to require a sustained interest.”.

Other sources or Obama Administration added that India’s experience and expertise on helping the US in its developments efforts would be invaluable, because “there is a clear recognition that Indian aid to Afghanistan has been effective, whereas we see a lot of criticism about the way in which we have distributed our aid.”

“So, there are lessons to be learned from India about how they have achieved maximum effectiveness of its aid programs in Afghanistan. There is a desire to understand how India has been effective in asserting its influence there and having a positive impact in terms of its aid delivery,” they added.

According to the sources, when Special Representative Richard Holbrooke visits the region again, maybe as early as next week, New Delhi would once again be an important stopover for him. “We will continue to explore how we can work with India and how India can help us in ensuring free and fair election in Afghanistan, because we know that India has the same goals of wanting to see democracy succeed there,” they said.