FROM CONFLICT TO DIPLOMACY: A STUDY OF INDIA–PAKISTAN RELATIONS

India–Pakistan relations are among the most complex and critical issues affecting political stability in South Asia. Since the Partition of 1947, the two countries have been marked by mutual distrust, religious and political differences, and repeated border disputes. The accession of Jammu and Kashmir and the wars that followed have had long-lasting effects on their bilateral relations. The Kashmir issue continues to be the most sensitive topic in both countries’ foreign policies, and terrorism remains a constant security threat for India. Major incidents such as the Parliament attack, 26/11 Mumbai attacks, Uri, and Pathankot have further strained relations.

Over the years, agreements like the Tashkent Agreement, Shimla Agreement, and Lahore Declaration have attempted to promote peace, while initiatives like bus diplomacy, cricket diplomacy, and cultural exchanges have helped foster goodwill among ordinary citizens. Yet, political instability and military involvement have prevented these efforts from achieving long-term success.