In a display of continued humanitarian support, India organized a five-day "Jaipur Foot" camp in Kabul, Afghanistan, providing free prosthetic limbs and mobility aids to Afghan amputees. This initiative, conducted by Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS), Jaipur, in collaboration with the Indian Embassy in Kabul, successfully fitted around 75 prosthetic limbs to Afghan nationals, helping them regain their mobility and independence.
The "Jaipur Foot," a prosthetic limb known for its cost-effectiveness, durability, and adaptability to local conditions, has been a source of relief for many Afghans who have lost limbs due to war, landmine blasts, or other accidents. Afghanistan has a high number of amputees due to decades of conflict and the presence of unexploded ordnance. The camp was set up in response to a request from Afghan authorities, recognizing the urgent need for rehabilitation support.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has emphasized that this effort aligns with India's long-standing commitment to the welfare of the Afghan people, especially during humanitarian crises. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared on X that the camp received an enthusiastic response. Indian officials have also noted that the program underscores India's focus on people-centric development in conflict-affected regions.
Beyond providing prosthetic limbs, the camp also focused on local capacity building. Afghan doctors, biomedical engineers, and technicians received training to enhance self-reliance in prosthetic manufacturing. This holistic approach ensures the long-term sustainability of the initiative and empowers the local community to address the needs of amputees.
India's humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan extends beyond the Jaipur Foot camp. Since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021, India has provided food aid, medical supplies, scholarships, and capacity-building programs to the country. This assistance is provided without political conditions, focusing on addressing basic human needs. Recently, on May 15, 2025, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had a telephonic conversation with Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan's Taliban administration, which marked the first Ministerial-level contact between the two since the Taliban's return to power in August 2021.
The Jaipur Foot camp is part of India's "India for Humanity" initiative, which has supported over 110 on-the-spot fitment camps across 44 countries. BMVSS, the organization behind the Jaipur Foot, has assisted over two million individuals worldwide. The Jaipur Foot is made from durable polymer materials, enhancing mobility and comfort for amputees.
India's engagement with Afghanistan reflects a pragmatic approach aimed at protecting national interests, fostering regional stability, and supporting the Afghan people. Despite past support for the overthrown democratic government, India is gradually normalizing relations with the Taliban, recognizing the geopolitical importance of Afghanistan and seeking to counter China's growing influence in the region. This includes reopening trade routes and issuing visas to Afghan nationals.
India's humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan, including the Jaipur Foot camp, demonstrate its commitment to providing tangible support to the Afghan people and fostering goodwill through people-centric development initiatives. By providing much-needed assistance and promoting self-reliance, India is playing a crucial role in helping Afghanistan navigate its ongoing challenges.
