New Delhi: India has completely withdrawn its military presence from the strategically significant Ayni Airbase in Tajikistan. The decision was made following the expiration of a bilateral agreement between the two nations, sources familiar with the matter said on Wednesday.
The Ayni Airbase holds historic importance as it was the site where India, nearly two decades ago, first deployed military and Air Force personnel to support the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance in Afghanistan.
According to sources, the bilateral agreement between India and Tajikistan—focused on the development and joint operation of the airbase—expired around four years ago and was not renewed. Subsequently, Indian personnel were gradually withdrawn, a process that was completed by 2022.
Located about 10 kilometers west of the Tajik capital, Dushanbe, the Ayni Airbase is now entirely under the control of the Tajikistan government.
