Uniting Hearts with Cricket and Warmth

In the heart of Kabul, where I spent my childhood, India was more than just a neighbouring country; it was a land of dreams and opportunities. My journey from Kabul to the bustling streets of India is not just my story but a reflection of the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between Afghanistan and India. These ties, spanning over two millennia, have evolved from ancient trade routes and shared religious heritage to robust political and educational alliances in modern times.

Following India's independence in 1947, the two nations have maintained close diplomatic relations. India's significant role in Afghanistan's development, especially in education, infrastructure, and healthcare, has been pivotal, amounting to over $3 billion in aid over the last two decades.

Educational Ties: Building Bridges

As a student from Afghanistan, the warmth and inclusiveness of India have always resonated with me. The diversity of cultures, languages, and communities in India has made it a second home for thousands of Afghan students like me. By 2019, approximately 14,000 Afghan students were enrolled in various Indian institutes, a testament to the strong educational bonds between our countries.

But the connection goes beyond governmental agreements and scholarships. The real ambassadors of Indian education are its Afghan alumni. Every Afghan student who returns home inspires thousands more to choose India for their higher education, drawn by its quality of education, homely environment, and affordability.

Healthcare: A Medical Haven for the Global South

India's significance for Afghans extends into healthcare as well. The country's top-notch medical facilities make it a preferred destination not only for Afghans but also for people from neighbouring countries and Africa. Between 2019 and 2021, India emerged as a major hub for medical tourism, with over 800,000 foreigners seeking medical treatment. In 2019 alone, approximately 50,000 Afghan nationals were granted medical visas to India.

Living in India, I have been impressed by the country's medical infrastructure, which efficiently serves a population of 1.4 billion. The rise of private healthcare centres and the government's push to establish more medical colleges are commendable efforts to enhance healthcare services.

Cricket: A Shared Passion and Pride

Another binding force between India and Afghanistan is our shared passion for cricket. Growing up, cricket was more than a sport; it was a way of life, similar to what I observed in India. Just like the scenes I've witnessed in the parks and streets of Indian cities and towns, my childhood days were often spent playing cricket after school, a shared pastime that resonates deeply with my experiences in India.

The Afghan national cricket team's growth and achievements, especially in international tournaments like this World Cup, have been a source of immense pride. Their journey from playing in refugee camps to competing on the world stage is a story of resilience and determination.

Beyond their performance in the game, our team's players truly embody the spirit of Afghanistan through their conduct off the field. For instance, Ibrahim Zadran's gesture of dedicating his Player of the Match award to the Afghan refugees facing expulsion from Pakistan brought international attention to a pressing humanitarian issue.

The approach adopted by Pakistani authorities in uprooting and expelling Afghan refugees raises concerns. It appears harsh and lacks consideration for the time and support these refugees need to safely and effectively reintegrate into Afghanistan. 

Meanwhile, Afghans all over the world are getting inspired by the remarkable resolve demonstrated by the Afghan cricket team. They have made significant strides since the 2019 World Cup, evolving from no victories to securing four wins in the current season, including triumphs over formidable teams like England, and earning a well-deserved spot in the Champions Trophy.

This remarkable progress wouldn't have been achievable without the backing of the Indian cricket community, which is evident in its willingness to share facilities and stadiums for practice. The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Dehradun has effectively become the Afghan team's home ground in India. Moreover, the warmth and support of the Indian fans, which I've experienced first-hand at the stadium, have been incredibly encouraging and visibly bolstered the team's spirit. This camaraderie goes beyond the cricket field, symbolizing the deep friendship between our two nations.

In Afghanistan, just like in India, cricket unites people. Watching the national team play is a shared experience, a bond that transcends borders. The support from Indian fans, coupled with the hospitality and opportunities India has provided, makes it a beloved nation for Afghans. This affection is reciprocal. In the absence of Afghanistan's participation, our support enthusiastically shifts to India in the ongoing tournament, with hopes riding high for their victory.

Living in India: Learning and Inspiration

Living and studying in India has been an enlightening experience beyond academics. Witnessing a multicultural society coexisting in harmony has been inspiring. The commitment to national development, evident in the expanding educational infrastructure even in remote villages, and the burgeoning Startup ecosystem, speaks volumes about India's potential as a future global leader.

My journey in India has been transformative, shaping my perspective on development, multiculturalism, and nation-building. India's approach to education, healthcare, and fostering innovation is a blueprint for developing nations. As an Afghan student in India, I have experienced the transformative impact of collaboration, cultural exchange, and shared goals in shaping a brighter future. This valuable lesson of unity and progress is something that I, along with my fellow students, aspire to implement for the development of our own country.